A 650 credit score is one of the most common scores in America — and also one of the most frustrating. You're not in the "bad credit" category, but you're not quite in the "good credit" range either. Lenders will approve you for many products, but you'll pay more for them than someone with a 700+ score.

Where Does 650 Fall on the Credit Score Scale?

Your Score: 650 — Fair
FICO Score Range (300–850)
Poor
300–579 Fair
580–669 ← You are here Good
670–739 Excellent
800+

According to FICO's scoring model, 650 falls in the "Fair" range (580–669). About 17% of Americans have scores in this range. The next milestone — "Good" credit — starts at 670, meaning you're only 20 points away from unlocking significantly better rates.

What Can You Get Approved For With a 650 Credit Score?

✓ Likely Approved
  • Personal loans (higher APR)
  • Secured credit cards
  • Some unsecured credit cards
  • Auto loans (higher rate)
  • Apartment rentals (most)
  • Credit-builder loans
✗ Difficult or Denied
  • Premium rewards cards
  • Best mortgage rates
  • Lowest personal loan APRs
  • 0% balance transfer cards
  • Jumbo mortgages
  • Business credit lines

Personal Loans With a 650 Credit Score

You can get a personal loan with a 650 credit score, but expect APRs in the 18%–28% range. The key is finding lenders that specialize in fair-credit borrowers.

Best for 650 Score · Accepts 300+ Min
Upstart
AI underwriting considers more than just your credit score
Check Your Rate →
APR Range
6.6%–35.99%
Loan Amount
$1K–$75K
Min. Credit
300

Upstart's AI model evaluates education, employment history, and income alongside your credit score. Borrowers with a 650 score and stable income often receive better rates here than at traditional banks.

How to Raise Your Score From 650 to 700+

  1. Pay every bill on time — Payment history is 35% of your FICO score.
  2. Lower your credit utilization below 30% — Getting below 10% utilization can add 20–40 points quickly.
  3. Don't close old accounts — The age of your credit history matters.
  4. Dispute any errors on your report — Get your free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
  5. Avoid new hard inquiries — Hold off on new applications for 3–6 months.
Timeline: Most people with a 650 score can reach 700 in 3–6 months by paying on time and reducing utilization. Reaching 750+ typically takes 12–24 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 650 a good credit score?
A 650 credit score is considered "fair" by FICO standards. It's not bad, but it's below the "good" threshold of 670. You can get approved for many financial products at 650, but you'll typically pay higher interest rates than borrowers with scores above 700.
What can I get approved for with a 650 credit score?
With a 650 credit score you can typically get approved for personal loans (at higher APRs), secured and some unsecured credit cards, auto loans, and most apartment rentals. Premium rewards credit cards and the lowest personal loan APRs are generally not accessible until you reach 700+.
Can I buy a house with a 650 credit score?
Yes — FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment. Conventional loans typically require 620+. However, a 650 score will result in a higher mortgage rate. Improving your score before applying can save thousands over the life of the loan.
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