What are ways to improve my credit score? I had one default in the past as a student. (apart from the idea of getting a 10k secured credit card)?

The credit score looks back at the past 12 cycles.

• Any cash advance made?

• Any balance transfer made?

• Have you made full payment for your credit card and loan?

• Any overdue balance?

• Date opened and closed for the account

• Probability of defaulting on a repayment for the population average

• Secured balance

• Unsecured balance

• Facility not used or zero balance

All the above factors affect the credit score. By improving or ensuring that you score well in each segment, you will naturally improve your score over time.

Here is everything about me and what I do best.

I'd just like to mention that i was in your position a few years back. and after looking through all the alternatives i still finally did the 10k secured credit card route haha :/

Pay your credit card bills on time
Avoid applying too many credit cards at one time

Check your rating at creditbureau and unless you are a huge spender, why not stay debit? :-)