How to open a student bank account
Once you have decided which bank offer the closest fit to what you need from your bank account, it is always best to be safe and ask your local branch of that bank for their terms and conditions. We all know this is rather dull, but it is better to read the small print now and not be stung with charges later. Also, if you have any questions, don’t afraid to ask, remember the staff are their to help you.
Once you have read the terms and conditions, and are certain that that is the account for you then it is time to sign up. Some banks let you do this online, others need you to go into your local branch, either way the process is the same – filling out some forms and proving your identity and address.
Exactly what the banks accept as forms of identification does vary from bank to bank, but as standard:
- Proof of Identity
- Current UK Passport
- Current UK photocard driving license
- Birth Certificate
- NHS Medical Card
- Proof of Address
- UCAS letter showing your name and address
- Student Loan Comany (or SAAS in Scotland) award letter showing your name and address
- University offer letter
Some banks also ask you to provide your letter of acceptance onto your university course as well as the two forms of identification above, and do note that you need two separate forms of identification (so your driving license doesn’t count for both).
Find the best student account for you with our Student Bank Account Comparison Guide >>
Photograph by Howard Lake
