Open a UK student bank account

In the UK, it is important to have a bank account to make sure that your money is kept safely. Having a bank account will mean you can:

• Transfer money in and out
• Pay bills by standing order or direct debit
• Use a cash card to buy goods or take money out of an ATM

Tip:

If you are under 18 years old, you will need somebody over age 18 to open the account with you. You still might be able to use a debit card and online banking, and you can eventually get your own account. But banks need at least one adult on an account to get you started. It does not have to be a parent — most banks will allow any trusted adult.

Choose a bank that is best for you

There are lots of banks in the UK offering different products and services. It is a good idea to spend some time to find the bank which is best for you. Most banks charge a monthly bank account fee for International Student Accounts.

Make an appointment with the bank

Some banks will see ‘walk-in’ customers without an appointment. But it is best to make an appointment with the bank to make sure that you don't get turned away.

Take the correct documents to your appointment

When you go to the bank, make sure that you have all of the correct documents. Without them, you will not be able to open a bank account. You will need:

• Proof of identity (BRP or passport)
• Proof of your address in the UK (bill payment or tenancy agreement
• Proof of your student status (student status letter)

Tip:

UK law requires banks to carry out checks on customers opening accounts to prevent fraud. It can take up to 2 or 3 weeks to open an account, particularly if you need to provide documents. So you should be prepared to bring travellers cheques / credit card / cash card with you to pay for things during this time. **For security reasons, do not