Absa Student Credit Card: your allowance counts towards the income requirement

You can meet the income requirement with an allowance, not just a salary. Your age, full-time student status and documents matter too.

Absa Student Credit Card

Absa Student accepts income or allowance of at least R800 a month. You must also be 18 to 30 and registered as a full-time student.

Your allowance opens the door to applying, with student and payment rules

Bring a valid South African ID book or Smart card, plus proof of residence. Add your latest income proof for three consecutive months. An allowance does not remove these requirements.

Cash withdrawals, casino transactions, internet banking transfers, fuel and budget plan purchases attract interest from the transaction date.

Which purchases carry transaction fees

You pay no transaction fees on purchases, except prepaid airtime, data, utilities and Lotto. Those exclusions matter when you use the card for top-ups alongside everyday shopping.

Absa Bank Limited requires a debit order. Choose the minimum due or the full statement balance; collection must succeed for payment to go through.

What you need to apply as a student

Have these requirements and documents ready for your application.

  • Be aged 18 to 30.
  • Have monthly income or an allowance of at least R800.
  • Be a registered full-time student at an eligible institution.
  • Bring the identity, address and income proof.
  • Set up a debit order for the minimum or full statement balance.

Apply online or speak to Absa in person

  1. Apply online at any hour, on any day.
  2. Or visit an Absa branch or Student bureau.

FAQ

Which institutions qualify me for the Absa Student Credit Card?

You must attend an FET college, SAQA-approved institution, university, university of technology or private institution full-time.

Will replacing a lost or stolen contactless card cost me anything?

A replacement fee may apply. Free lost-card protection requires you to report the loss or theft through the app or on 0800 111 155.

How do I activate my new Absa Student Credit Card?

Make a purchase at a point-of-sale terminal using your PIN to activate the card. For a reissued card, use your previous PIN.

Can I track my card once Absa has issued it?

Yes. Once issued, use Track Delivery in the Absa app to track your card. This covers new cards, renewals, reissues and upgrades.