First-time credit applicants, often young adults or new immigrants, face challenges due to a lack of credit history. A credit score, essential for loan approval, is based on credit history which first-timers lack. Options to build credit include secured credit cards, loans from bad credit vendors, getting a co-signer, and credit builder loans. Steps to improve chances of credit approval include enrolling to vote, maintaining bills, and listening to credit advisors. The process takes around 6 months to establish a credit score.