Credit Score For Discover Cards: What Are The Requirements? (2024)

There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to credit card applications. As noted above, there are a number of variables credit card issuers consider when viewing an application, such as credit score, payment history, credit utilization and income, so it’s impossible to give exact numbers required for an application. That said, Discover does offer a Pre-Qualification Tool that can help you determine which cards you might be eligible for, without hurting your credit score. Keep in mind, though, pre-qualified does not mean preapproved.

While it cannot be said with absolute certainty that a specific credit score will guarantee an application’s approval, we can say what is generally required for specific cards. Below are just a few of Discover’s products that may suit your needs, and the types of credit scores generally needed to be approved:

Discover it® Cash Back: For Those With Excellent/Good Credit

The Discover it® Cash Back is Discover’s top-earning cash-back card. The card earns 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically. That’s a respectable rewards rate, especially for a card with a $0 annual fee.

In addition, Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year as a cardmember. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards, which could work out to a sizable stash if you use your card for everyday purchases. And, the Discover it® Cash Back also boasts a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and eligible balance transfers. Then, a standard rate of 18.24% - 28.24% variable applies. A balance transfer fee of up to 5% of the amount transferred applies.

Discover suggests that if you have a “good” credit score you may qualify for a card like the Discover it® Cash Back card. While that may seem rather vague, it’s a safe bet that you will need a credit score of at least 670 to be approved.

Discover it® Miles: For Those With Excellent/Good Credit Who Value Travel

Like the Discover it® Cash Back, the Discover it® Miles requires good or excellent credit, which is defined by FICO as a score of 670 to 850. Unlike the Discover it® Cash Back, this card earns miles and is geared toward those for whom travel is a priority.

The card earns 1.5 miles per dollar on every purchase, which can be redeemed for cash or as a statement credit towards a travel purchase at a rate of 1 cent per mile. While there are certainly travel cards that offer a better value, the Discover it® Miles has a place in a traveler’s arsenal due to its $0 annual fee and first-year rewards match. Similar to the cash back version of the card, Discover offers an unlimited match of all the miles earned at the end of the first year. This can potentially net you massive returns if you use your card consistently.

Discover it® Secured Credit Card: For Those Rebuilding Their Credit

The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is perhaps Discover’s best option for those in need of a boost to their credit. As a secured card, there is a much lower barrier to entry. In fact, there is no credit score required to apply for this card, meaning those new to credit or who are repairing their credit profile can potentially make use of this offer.

Like most secured cards, your limit on this card will be determined by the amount you give as a security deposit, from $200 up to $2,500. This allows Discover to issue the card with minimal risk. Unlike most secured cards, the Discover it® Secured Credit Card offers cash-back rewards: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. All this is in addition to the Unlimited Cashback Match™ - Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year. This puts the Discover it® Secured Credit Card in rarified air as the ability to earn rewards while rebuilding your credit is a major benefit.

Perhaps the card’s most appealing feature is its ability to graduate to an unsecured card. After seven months, Discover automatically begins to review your account every month. Consistent on-time payments could mean Discover will convert your card to an unsecured one and you’ll have your deposit returned. This is an excellent path to credit recovery, provided you can make your payments every month.

Additionally, as with all Discover cards, you are given free access to your FICO Score, which can help you keep track of your credit’s health.

Discover it® Student Cash Back: For Students Looking To Build Credit

Like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, the Discover it® Student Cash Back is a card for those with little or no credit history who need a path to healthier credit, as it requires no minimum credit score to apply and carries no annual fee.

As with the rest of Discover’s line, the card offers rewards: 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and more, up to the quarterly maximum once activated. Plus, automatically earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. This is a solid rate for a beginner card and it also includes Unlimited Cashback Match™ - Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards, which can potentially net sizable rewards while helping students establish credit.

Rewards can be redeemed for cash back at any time or at millions of online retailers with PayPal, giving students flexibility on their credit journey. The card also comes with a 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 18.24% - 27.24% applies. This, combined with standard Discover perks like free credit monitoring, gives students plenty of tools to ensure solid credit.

Lastly, once the student graduates, the card changes to a standard credit card, with the same cash-back program. However, it may be possible at that point to qualify for a higher line of credit, which again offers students a path to financial health.