Open a UK bank account
Find out how to open a bank account in the UK and what the benefits of having an account are.
Why should you open a UK bank account?
Opening a UK bank account has several benefits for students, including:
- fraud protection
- safety and security of your money
- you can use it to pay your rent and tuition fees
- you can use it to manage other daily expenses without incurring any extra charges
Things to consider
The process of opening an account will vary from bank to bank, in terms of what they offer and what accounts you are eligible for. You need to think about:
- the type of bank account available to you in terms of an overdraft, fees, charges and additional perks
- the type of documentation required to open an account (e.g. passport, letter of study offer from the University, proof of address. please check if your bank requires BRP)
- how long it will take to open an account
- eligibility requirements including the minimum expected length of stay in the UK
Where to find out further information about banking
We recommend you visit the Advice Place website for up to date guidance on how to open an account, the types of accounts available to you and how to bank safely.
The UCAS website also contains lots of useful information for international students.
Watch our short video
This short video will cover:
- What type of bank accounts are available to you
- Common issues
- How the Advice Place can help and useful contacts
- Video: How to open a bank account in the UK
- This short video will cover: What type of bank accounts are available to you Common issues How the Advice Place can help and useful contacts
Banking safety and terminology
Understanding banking terminology and how to keep your bank account details secure.