Bank Accounts for EU & International students

Who is eligible?
All students are eligible for a basic bank account, but this information is specifically for international and EU students.

Why do I need a UK bank account?

• You'll need to have a bank account whilst studying in the UK so that you can access your money and pay for the things you need.
• You need to have a UK bank account to pay your fees.

How to apply?

• You need to be present in the UK.
• You will need to visit a local branch with various forms of identification. These include your passport.and proof of your address in the UK, such as a letter from the university.
• The bank will require additional information, please check with the specific bank you wish to apply to for what they require. We have a list of major UK banks near the main university campus.
• All banks need to check the identity of anyone opening a new account (whether UK residents or foreign visitors) as part of the government strategy to combat organised crime. This involves rigorous checks for all individuals who wish to open bank accounts.

As international students are in the UK only for the duration of their education, they are generally only eligible for a basic bank account.

The service is not as comprehensive as most UK bank accounts, for instance most will not offer an overdraft facility, and neither will you be offered credit or debit cards.

You will be able to

• access cash via ATMs.
• set up direct debits and standing orders.

Anything else?
You'll be able to set up deposits into your account from named individuals in your home country. Some banks may charge you for this service. If deposits are not in Sterling you may be charged an exchange rate handling fee.

The best way to bring money with you into the UK is to ask your bank in the country where you live to issue a cheque drawn in sterling on a London bank. To access the money you need to present yourself with proof of identity to the bank.

Which banks are nearest the university?
We've compiled a list of major banks near the main campus to help you select the bank that is right for you. We cannot recommend or advise you on any particular bank.