FICO Score vs VantageScore: What Is the Difference?

You have probably noticed that your credit score is different depending on where you check it. This is usually because different apps use different scoring models. Here is what you need to know.

What Is FICO Score?

FICO (Fair Isaac Corporation) is the original and most widely used credit scoring model. There are many versions of FICO — FICO 8, FICO 9, FICO Auto, FICO Mortgage — but FICO 8 is the most commonly used by lenders.

Over 90% of top lenders use FICO scores when making credit decisions. If you are applying for a mortgage, auto loan, or credit card, the lender almost certainly pulled your FICO score.

What Is VantageScore?

VantageScore was created jointly by the three credit bureaus as an alternative to FICO. VantageScore 3.0 and 4.0 are the current versions. Many free credit monitoring apps (Credit Karma, Credit Sesame) use VantageScore because it is less expensive for them to license.

Key Differences

Why Your Score Varies

Your score varies because different apps use different scoring models AND different bureau data. Credit Karma shows your TransUnion VantageScore. Discover shows your Experian FICO 8. These can differ by 20-50 points on average and sometimes more.

The score that matters most for any specific application is the one that lender will use. For mortgages, focus on FICO. CreditGM can help you understand and improve all your scores.