You’re juggling night classes, caffeine-fueled exam reviews, and the occasional 3 am pizza run. But while your college career is taking off, there’s something quietly shaping your future behind the scenes—and no, we’re not talking about your GPA. 

It’s your credit score. 

If you’re like most students, you’ve probably heard about credit in commercials wedged between your favorite Netflix show but haven’t paid much attention. After all, adulting can wait, right? Wrong. Building credit starts now and trust us—your future self will thank you when you’re ready to buy your first car, get approved for that dream apartment, or even land a job that checks your credit history. 

Let’s turn you from clueless to confident when it comes to your credit! 

Start Building Before Graduation 

Think of credit as your financial reputation. Lenders, landlords, and even some employers use it to decide how trustworthy and responsible you are. 

Here’s why starting in college gives you a huge advantage: 

1. Time is your best friend: the longer you’ve had credit (and used it wisely), the better your score looks. 
2. You’ll need it sooner than you think: whether it’s applying for student loans, getting your own phone plan, or financing a car—you need credit! 
3. Avoiding the “credit catch-22”: you can’t get credit unless you have credit…but you can’t have credit unless someone gives it to you. That’s where smart early steps come in. 

So, how do you start building that all-important score? 

Get a Credit Card…and Use It Right 

A credit card can be your secret weapon, if used wisely! It helps build your credit file and shows lenders you can handle borrowing. But used recklessly, and it becomes a trap. 

Here’s how to play it smart: 

1. Start small: a student credit card or a secured credit card is a great starting point. Langley has a card for every occasion, plus benefits to help you tackle any purchase! 
2. Make timely payments: always pay at least the minimum by every due date. Just one missed payment can tank your entire score. 
3. Keep your balance low: try to use less than 30% of your credit limit. That means if you have a $1,000 limit, don’t carry more than $300. 

Always Know Your Score 

Would you drive a car without a speedometer? Of course not. So don’t manage your finances without knowing your FICO Score. Your credit score isn’t just a number; it’s a snapshot of your financial health. 

Langley members get free access to their FICO Score, helping you track your progress, spot issues early, and stay on top of your finances. 

Here’s what makes up your score: 

Learn from the Pros 

Let’s be real: navigating credit, loans, interest rates, and budgeting can feel like learning a new language. But you don’t have to do it alone. 

Langley offers free Financial Coaching to help you decode your financial life and make smart decisions from the start. Whether you’re planning a semester abroad, trying to budget your part-time paycheck, or wondering if you should take out a loan—it’s all on the table. 

Real Talk: Mistakes to Avoid 

Even smart students like you can slip up sometimes. Here’s what to avoid: 

1. Maxing out your credit card: this signals to lenders that you may be in some financial trouble. 
2. Paying late: a single 30-day late payment can stay on your credit report for years. 
3. Applying for too many cards: each application causes a hard inquiry, which can easily lower your score. 

Go Back-to-School Smarter with Langley 

This semester, make your back-to-school prep more than notebooks and dorm supplies. It’s time to start building your financial future. 

Langley’s Back-to-School Resources are loaded with real talk, smart tools, and student-first services to help you not just survive, but thrive. 

You’ve got the power. We’ve got the tools. 

From Nothing to Something! 

Building credit doesn’t have to be confusing or intimidating. With a few smart moves, some guidance from Langley, and a little patience, you’ll go from credit zero to financial hero—before you even cross the graduation stage. 

So swipe smart. Pay on time. Track your score. And ask questions. 

Remember: the best time to build your future was yesterday. The second-best time? Right now.