I would opt for the Freedom first and build to get to the CSP if that is the main card you want or if you just wanted to the CSP because of the 'higher SL' etc you may be surprised at some SL Freedom gives/offers. Also there isn't a Hard hit that doesn't report if it's a Hard hit it will show up it may just take it a moment to pop up lol. I would keep an eye out in the next few months (1-3) for it to show up
Concur with to check the prequal website.
Chase is a conservative lender and doesn't like thin files.
Don't waste a cold app and a HP at this point with them.
I personally think yours is much too thin still for even a decent chance at a lower-tier Freedom or Slate card. Your odds of approval for a CSP are almost nil now, in my estimation. With a $2.3K top limit, Chase will never approve you for a $5K minimum card. They don't like to be your highest limit.
I suggest diversifying with more liberal lenders and growing your limits before even apping for a Freedom. If you were to get approved by Chase too early, you'll get a low limit, high APR, or both. Be patient and you'll be rewarded for it.
As conservative as BofA seems to becoming, you did well to get their CR card first. You must bank with them?? Value that card. It should grow in time pretty well if you tend to it nicely.
I would suggest you app with Capital One or Discover next and age your file.
Or perhaps apply with whoever you have bank accounts with if it is not BofA.
On a side note I did get my FU at the one year mark so it's possible but I would follow the other advice with the Student or checking prequalify first 
since you state that you're a student, you might as well apply for their student card to get your relationship going with them that way u give yourself a better chance at the CSP card.
@Anonymous wrote:Perhaps since you're a Student, you might consider their Student card. Using that to get your foot in the door, could lead you to getting the CSP earlier.
I was actually not even aware that Chase offered a Student card until I searched for it. The "Student" card is not on their regular credit card offerings page, so I had never seen it! But if you search for "Chase Bank Student credit card" or "student banking" they have student options for checking, savings, and a Freedom Student credit card. I agree this would be much more feasible at this point in time if you don't want to wait to establish a Chase relationship. But I would suggest you wait until you consider applying even for a Freedom or Freedom Unlimited, much less a Sapphire Preferred. With a little good history on the Student card, you'll stand an excellent chance with a regular card in another year or so.
