The Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard is issued by the Bank of Montreal (BMO) and tailored for post-secondary students in Canada. It operates on the Mastercard network, providing international acceptance and a simple entry into the world of credit. With no annual fee and a rewards structure tied to the AIR MILES program, it’s an accessible option for students building credit from scratch.
In this article, we offer a complete review of the credit card, including its features, benefits, limitations, and how to apply. If you’re looking for a card that rewards your daily spending and helps you start a solid financial history, this guide is for you.
Main features of the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
The Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard is a basic, no-fee student credit card that fits easily into any young adult’s financial routine. It’s part of the Mastercard network, which means it’s accepted worldwide and can be used for online or in-store purchases. The card has no annual fee, making it a great choice for students who need to control costs while still accessing credit and rewards without complexity.
You can earn a welcome bonus of 800 AIR MILES when spending CA$1,000 in the first three months after activation. Interest rates are standard for student products—21.99% for purchases and 23.99% for cash advances, except in Quebec where both are 21.99%.
Approval requirements
To qualify for the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard, you must be a Canadian resident, of legal age in your province (typically 18 or 19), and enrolled in a post-secondary institution officially. There’s no stated minimum income, and part-time jobs or student funding are accepted as valid sources. A credit score of around 660 or higher may help approval chances, but it’s not strictly required for all students.
Benefits of the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
With this card, you earn AIR MILES rewards in a simple, student-friendly structure that fits a variety of spending habits. Earn 3x miles per CA$25 spent at AIR MILES partners, 2x miles at eligible grocery stores, and 1x mile per CA$25 on all other purchases.
Additional benefits include purchase protection for 90 days and extended warranty coverage on eligible items bought using the card. The card also offers discounts on car rentals and exclusive offers through BMO and AIR MILES.
Exclusive highlight
What makes the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard stand out is its ability to double your AIR MILES when you also use your Collector Card at partner stores. This stacked rewards structure is rare in student cards and allows you to build up travel points faster with regular purchases.
Drawbacks and cautions of the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard
Despite solid perks, the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard earns just 1 mile per CA$25 on general purchases, which may feel slow if you don’t shop at partners regularly. Cashback cards might be more rewarding depending on your spending habits and daily needs.
The card lacks travel insurance, which some other student options include, especially those that charge a fee. Although not a dealbreaker, it’s worth noting if you plan to travel often or want more security. As with most entry-level cards, interest rates are high, so it’s important to pay off your balance monthly to avoid costly charges and protect your credit score.
How to apply step by step
To apply for the Student BMO AIR MILES Mastercard, visit the official BMO website or go to a branch with your documents. Online application is straightforward—complete the form with personal, school, and financial details. Be prepared to verify your student status and provide basic income or funding information.
After you apply, BMO will conduct a credit review and assess your eligibility based on various factors. If approved, you’ll get your card within a few business days and can begin using it. You can then activate it online and start earning rewards right away. Most students receive a decision within 24–48 hours, making the process fast and efficient for all users.
