Best Banks in the UK for International Student | How to Open One?
- BlogSummary:
This comprehensive guide caters to international students planning to study in the UK. It details the top banks, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step process for opening a UK bank account. Additionally, it provides valuable tips for effectively managing finances while pursuing an education abroad, ensuring a smooth financial transition.
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- Faq:
- Faq title:
What are the types of accounts available in the UK for international students?, Faq Desc:
In the UK, there are two types of accounts - Current account and Savings account. With a current account, you can deposit and withdraw cash whenever you like, and you will receive a chequebook and a credit card. This type of account is ideal for international students. A savings account is for collecting money over a long period of time and is preferred by working students or those saving for travel or emergencies.
- Faq title:
Which banks in the UK are popular among international students?, Faq Desc:
Some of the banks that are common among international students in the UK include HSBC Bank, National Westminster Bank (Natwest), Santander Bank, and Barclays Bank.
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What are the requirements to open an international student bank account in the UK?, Faq Desc:
The document requirement varies for each bank. However, commonly required documents include a valid proof of full name, residential address, telephone numbers, university/college address, a passport or ID card (like student ID, birth certificate, driver's licence), proof of student status (a letter from the university can be requested), biometric residence permits (BRPs), and money to be deposited in the account.
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Moving to the UK to study? Well, that's a brilliant decision! But first, here's one thing that you must know before you fly to the UK as an international student - How to manage your money and expenses?!
→ Open an international student bank account in a reputable bank in the UK that will help you to maximize your money (and to survive)
Here is a list of things that you should look out for while opening an international student bank account in the UK:
Choose the right type of account that will meet your needs
In the UK, there are two types of accounts -
- Current account
- Savings account
With a current account, you can deposit and withdraw cash whenever you like. You will receive a checkbook and a credit card along with your current account. As an international student, opening a current account will be ideal for you.
With a savings account, you can collect money over a long period of time. Working students and those who save money for travel or emergency purposes prefer this type of account.
Choose the bank that is closest to your residence
When you choose a bank, always make sure to choose the one that is closest to your university and residence. This way, you will be able to seek immediate assistance without much hassle whenever you have an issue.
Choose the bank in the UK that suits your needs the most:
You may consider a few options that are quite common among international students. Listed as below:-
- HSBC Bank
- National Westminster Bank (Natwest)
- Santander Bank
- Barclays Bank
How to open an international student bank account?
The document requirement differs from each bank and therefore, it is always advisable that you check with the bank you are applying to for the list of documents to be submitted. Listed below are documents that are prerequisite in most banks -
- A valid proof of full name, residential address, residential telephone number, campus telephone number and university/college address
- A passport or ID card (student ID, birth certificate, driver's license)
- A valid proof that you are a student (you can request your university for a letter)
- Biometric residence permits (BRPs)
- Money to be deposited in your account
Still confused about choosing the right bank and the right type of account? Reach out to us. Our counsellors at AECC Singapore have been helping students with their study abroad goals for years and we are always ready to offer you the right kind of assistance. Wait no more, get in touch with us today!
