Best bank accounts for international students

What is a bank account for international students?

A UK bank account for international students helps you to manage your money while studying in the UK. It lets you pay rent, shop, and receive money from home.

You’ll typically get a debit card, an online banking service, and often exclusive student perks too.

Having a UK bank account means you can keep your money in pounds sterling and make payments in the UK without incurring currency conversion fees.

No foreign transaction fees

Spend in pounds or your home currency without extra charges – ideal for international shopping or travel
Easy international transfers

Send and receive money from abroad quickly, securely, and often at competitive exchange rates, or even for free
Multi-currency support

Hold and manage multiple currencies in one account, simplifying payments between home and the UK
Student discounts and offers

Access exclusive deals on food, tech, and travel tailored to help international students in the UK save money

Choose a bank and student account

Compare features, fees, overdrafts, eligibility, and international transfer support before applying

Gather documents

You’re likely to need your passport, student visa, university offer or CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), proof of address (home or university letter), and recent bank statements

Apply online or in-branch

Upload documents, complete ID checks (video or face-to-face), set security details and confirm contact info

Fund and activate

Transfer money from home, receive and activate your debit card, download the app and set up online banking

Can I open a bank account as an international student?

Yes, if you’re studying in the UK as an international student, you can usually open a specialist student bank account for free.

You’ll be able to manage your money easily online, with a mobile app, or by visiting a bank or building society branch to withdraw cash or make payments.

But international student accounts don’t usually include features like interest-free overdrafts or UK-only student perks.

Your debit card can be used without fees in the UK, but overseas transactions may come with extra charges.

Valid passport

You must provide a current passport as proof of identity
Student visa

International students usually need a valid UK student visa
University confirmation

A letter of acceptance, offer, or CAS is required
Proof of address

Provide a UK address, such as university accommodation or a tenancy agreement
Minimum Age

Most banks require you to be at least 18 years old to open a student account
UK contact details

A UK phone number or email may be required for account verification

Advantages
- Pay and withdraw in pounds without costly currency conversion or international card charges
- Handle rent, bills, and everyday spending locally with clear statements and budgeting tools
- Receive money from home or scholarships quickly through secure international transfer options
Disadvantages
- You’re likely to face international transfer fees when you want to send or receive money from home
- Opening an account often needs multiple documents like visas and proof of address
- Student accounts for international students don’t always include overdrafts or credit-building features

Check international fee policy

Choose a bank that offers low or no fees for international transfers and overseas card use
Compare student-specific features

Ensure the account includes student-friendly features like budgeting tools, debit cards, and mobile banking
Look at account eligibility

Confirm the account is open to international students, and you can provide proof of your visa, your address, and other required documents
Evaluate customer support

Select a bank with strong customer service reviews, a reliable mobile app, and good local branch or online support

Our expert says…

Opening a UK student bank account can be a smart move for international students, but it’s worth doing your homework first. These accounts often come with perks like interest-free overdrafts, which can be far more valuable than freebies such as railcards or vouchers.
Before you sign up, check whether the overdraft is ‘guaranteed’ or ‘up to’, as the latter depends on your credit history – something many students have little of. Also, be aware that some banks require specific visas or proof of address, and international students may not always qualify for the same overdraft benefits.
Comparing accounts before you arrive can help you avoid unexpected fees and make managing your money in pounds much easier.

Kara Gammell Personal Finance & Insurance Expert

International or home country bank account

You can continue using your existing bank account, but be aware of high foreign transaction and transfer fees
Prepaid or travel money card

Load money in pounds or multiple currencies to spend safely in the UK without a traditional bank account
Digital or challenger banks

Apps like Revolut or Wise offer multi-currency accounts, easy international transfers, and may charge lower fees for students
Peer-to-peer payment services

Platforms like PayPal and Wise let you send and receive money internationally, though they may charge small fees

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Browse our providers

Just click the button below to see a list of all our savings accounts, ordered by highest interest rate
Filter and sort

Use our filters to focus on what’s most important to you, whether it’s interest rate or deposit amount
Click through to provider

When you find the account you want, click straight to the provider to complete your application online today

Compare savings accounts

Can I open a student bank account before arriving in the UK?

Some banks allow pre-arrival applications online, but you may need to complete identity checks in person once in the UK to actually open your account.

Are international students eligible for interest-free overdrafts?

Many banks restrict overdrafts for international students, so it’s important to check account terms before applying.

Can I use my student bank account for international transfers?

Yes, most accounts let you send and receive money internationally, though fees and exchange rates may apply.

What happens to my student account when I graduate?

Your account may convert to a standard current account, potentially losing student perks like overdrafts or incentives.

Can I manage my account online or with a mobile app?

Yes, most banks provide online and mobile banking, making it easy to check balances, pay bills, and track spending.

Can I get a debit card with my international student bank account?

Yes, most student accounts include a debit card for ATM withdrawals, in-store purchases, and online payments in the UK.

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Student bank accounts