There is much debate surrounding college student credit cards. Some swear up and down that they’re a disaster waiting to happen while others vehemently object and insist they are a must-have financial tool for college students. Which side is right?

When deciding whether college student credit cards are good or bad, you need to weigh the facts. These three truths will help you come to your own conclusion.

1. Aggressive Marketing

College student credit cards have gotten a bad rap when it comes to their marketing tactics — and some would say that it’s for good reason. You can’t hit a single college campus without coming across at least one application for college student credit cards.

That being said, while the applications are definitely readily available (to put it lightly), no one is forcing college students to sign the application. It’s the responsibility of a parent to instruct their children on wise financial decisions.

The credit card companies are marketing their product — that’s what they do. Parents need to do their part and make sure that they instruct their children in the ways of the credit world.

2. They’ve Got to Grow Up Sometime

Everyone has to grow up sooner or later and college student credit cards can provide some priceless lessons in the world of adult finance. For the first time, college students can be responsible for their own spending and their own monthly bills.

Yes, college student credit cards can provide the potential for disaster (but so can a number of situations that students encounter in college). Just because student credit cards have the potential to be misused, it doesn’t mean that they will be. Have some faith in today’s college students!

3. Paving the Way

Once a college student graduates, they’re going to need some things (a place to live and a car to name a few) and they’re going to need credit to get the things they need. If they don’t start building their credit history in college, when are they supposed to do it?

If a college student wants to be completely prepared when they graduate, they’re going to need to work on building a solid credit history while they’re in school. College student credit cards can be the means to that end.

If you know a college student (or are a college student) who has been debating about whether college student credit cards are good or bad, consider the above three facts and remember, it’s not college student credit cards themselves that are good are bad — it is who is using them and how they are being used that make the difference.