Could my credit score keep me from getting an apartment?

Although your credit score is low, if doesn't sound like you actually have "bad" credit. i.e. late payments, collection accounts, judgements. So, you shouldn't have a problem, however if any of the other roomates have serious credit issues then you may get denied the apartment. You should definitely apply for credit cards and use them but keeping the balance very low. This will increase your credit score within 30days of using the cards. Your credit score is low due to inactivity.

Although your credit score will play a role in whether or not you get approved the main thing landlords/managers are looking for is if you have any judgments against you for nonpayment of rent. Are you employed? Will you be able to meet the rent payment, etc. It will also hinge on the other roommates credit history too. It might be possible to have co-signers for the lease as long as they are able to meet the rent payment if you are unable to. It really depends on the landlord as to how they handle it.

When they run your credit report, all they'll want to see if you were late on a payment. If you decided to go through with it, make sure all parties sign the lease agreement and the gas and electric as well.

No. When you are young, scores are low. Length of Credit history is a big part of your score. With your credit cards (if you have any), pay them in full each month. Carrying balances can cause serious damage to credit scores.

Apts have diff requirements. Some places you need 3 times your rent in monthly income, you didn't say how you will pay your rent either--A pt job or reimbursed from school? Mom or dad? Car payments and credit cards improve your score after a year or two...mostly credit cards. If you use it for small things and pay whatever you spent off every month that improves your score. The difference between car nterest rates no one looks at...example if your interest rate is 10%, you refinanance to 3% you only save about $10 a month. That's not a big deal. Credit cards like 26% apr...you only get charged about $4 interest on a monthly basis. Don't put credit cards or loans in anyones name, you won't be able to boost your score..if your in good standing some rent apts won't look @590 as bad cause your a student and paying your bills on time, which a credit check will state that, reassuring your landlord/management. When you start of at 18 your credit score is in the low 600's , so if your in your early 20's its bad not terrible, just have no established credit. Get it to 680-700 and you will be good. Its gonna take a few years though. Keep in.mind your score will benefit you in the future, future loans, cc cards, cars/payments/interest, houses whatever.