The Discover it® Secured card is a credit card, not a prepaid card. With a secured credit card like the Discover it® Secured, you are required to make a security deposit to establish your credit limit. This deposit serves as collateral and is typically refundable when you close the account or upgrade to an unsecured credit card.

Having a bank account is essential for making the deposit and for managing the financial aspects of your credit card account, such as making payments, receiving cashback rewards, and handling other transactions. It’s a common requirement for secured credit cards and most traditional credit cards.

Yes, students can apply for the Discover it® Secured card. While the card is designed to help individuals build or rebuild their credit, it’s not limited to a specific group, and students who are looking to establish or improve their credit can benefit from it. However, Discover has credit cards made specifically for students, and you can get extra benefits to help you in your college years.