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FICO Score vs Credit Score: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever checked your credit and wondered why the number looks different depending on where you look, you’re not alone. One of the most common sources of confusion is the difference between a FICO score and a credit score.
People often ask questions like:
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Is a FICO score the same as a credit score?
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Why do my credit scores look different?
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Is my FICO score accurate?
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Which score do lenders actually use?
This guide breaks down FICO score vs credit score, explains how each one works, and helps you understand which numbers actually matter when you apply for credit.
Is a FICO Score the Same as a Credit Score? No. A FICO score is a type of credit score, but not all credit scores are FICO scores.
A credit score is a broad term that refers to any numerical score used to predict how likely someone is to repay borrowed money. There are multiple credit scoring models, each using different formulas and data weighting.
A FICO score is a specific credit scoring model created by the Fair Isaac Corporation. It is the most widely used scoring system in the United States, but it is not the only one.
Think of it this way:
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Credit score = the category
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FICO score = the most common brand within that category
What Is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number, usually ranging from 300 to 850, that reflects your creditworthiness. It is calculated using information from your credit reports, including:
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Payment history
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Credit utilization
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Length of credit history
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Credit mix
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New credit inquiries
Credit scores are used by lenders, landlords, insurers, and sometimes employers to assess financial risk.
Different companies calculate credit scores using different formulas, which is why you may see multiple scores depending on where you check.
What Is a FICO Score?
A FICO score is a specific type of credit score that uses the FICO scoring model. According to industry estimates, FICO scores are used in the majority of lending decisions in the U.S.
FICO scores also range from 300 to 850 and are calculated using the same general categories as other credit scores. However, the weighting and interpretation of those factors are unique to FICO.
There are also multiple versions of FICO scores, including:
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Older FICO models are still used by some lenders
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Newer versions are designed for credit cards, auto loans, or mortgages
This is one reason your FICO score may differ depending on where and how it’s pulled.
Credit Score vs FICO Score: Why the Numbers Can Be Different
Many people are surprised to see different scores across apps, banks, and credit monitoring tools. This does not mean one score is wrong.
Differences happen because of:
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Different scoring models (FICO vs other models)
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Different versions of the same model
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Data pulled from different credit bureaus
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Timing of when accounts or payments are reported
For example, a credit monitoring app might show a score calculated using a non-FICO model, while a lender may pull a FICO score directly from one credit bureau using a specific version of the model.
Is a FICO Credit Score Accurate?
A FICO score is accurate within the context of its model, but it is not a universal or permanent number.
A FICO score accurately reflects:
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The data on your credit report at that moment
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How the FICO model weighs risk factors
However, accuracy does not mean permanence. Scores change when:
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Payments are reported
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Balances change
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Accounts age
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New credit is opened or closed
It’s also important to understand that accuracy depends on the underlying credit report. Errors on your credit report can affect any credit score, including FICO scores.
Which Credit Score Do Lenders Use?
In most cases, lenders use FICO scores, but not always the version you see in consumer apps.
Different lenders may use:
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Different FICO versions
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Scores from different credit bureaus
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Industry-specific FICO models
This is why the score you see in a free credit app may not exactly match the score a lender pulls during an application. The difference does not mean your score is wrong, only that it was calculated differently.
Why Understanding the Difference Matters
Understanding the difference between a FICO score and a general credit score helps you:
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Set realistic expectations when applying for credit
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Avoid panic over small score differences
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Focus on behaviors that improve scores across all models
Most positive credit habits, such as paying bills on time and keeping balances low, improve all credit scores over time, regardless of the model used.
How Credit-Building Tools Fit In
Many people use credit-building tools and apps to improve their credit profiles. These tools typically aim to strengthen the factors that influence both FICO scores and other credit scores, such as payment history and utilization.
While no tool can guarantee a specific score, consistent on-time payments and responsible usage tend to improve results across scoring models.
The difference between a FICO score and a credit score is mostly about definition and usage, not accuracy versus inaccuracy.
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A credit score is a general term
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A FICO score is a specific, widely used scoring model
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Differences in scores are normal and expected
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Long-term credit habits matter more than the exact number you see today
Understanding how these scores work puts you in a better position to build credit confidently and avoid unnecessary confusion.