Opening a UK bank account
Welcome to the University of Warwick! We’re delighted to have you join our vibrant community.
To help you get settled, here’s a guide on opening a UK bank account as an international student.
- The University does not accept cash for tuition or accommodation payments; use Flywire instead.
- All cafes and shops on campus operated by Warwick Retail are cashless.
Step 1: Obtain a Bank Card/ Pre-Paid Travel Card from your home country
- Local Bank Services: Check with your home country bank for services or cards you can use in the UK.
- International Bank Accounts: Some UK banks, like HSBC, offer services to pre-open an account from your home country. HSBC ServicesLink opens in a new window
Step 2: Decide whether you need or want to open a UK bank account
If you plan to make regular payments in the UK, such as tuition fees or phone bills, a UK bank account will be necessary. A majority of non-EU students opt for a UK bank account due to better exchange rates and convenience.
Read UKCISA's blogLink opens in a new window to understand whether you need a UK bank account.
Step 3: Research Bank Accounts Early
- Make an Informed Choice: Investigate available bank accounts before arriving to choose the best option.
- Consider digital banking solutionLink opens in a new window for the initial weeks as local banksLink opens in a new window may have long delays, especially if you can't bring a card from your home country.
Pick the Right bank!
It is important that you pick the right account for your circumstances. The University does not recommend one bank or another to you. Instead, here are some important questions to consider, in order to help you make your decision:
- Direct Debits and Recurring Payments: Can the account handle subscriptions and regular payments?
- How to pay in: Can you pay in cash easily?
- Payment Methods: Are you able to make payments in shops or online?
- International Transactions: What are the costs for international transfers?
- Account Fees: Are there any fees for opening the account? Do they offer extra benefits?
- Account Opening Time: When can you open the account? Do you need to wait for enrolment or proof of address?
- Course Length Requirement: Does the account require a minimum course length?
- Overdraft Availability: Is an overdraft available? Is it a credit or debit account?
- Additional Benefits: What extra perks are offered? Are they useful to you?
- Local Branch Proximity: How far is the nearest branch? Is this important for you?
Banking terms explainedLink opens in a new window
Make a list of the below factors (and any others!) which are important to you.
Then compare the digital banking solution and available accounts at local banksLink opens in a new window Link opens in a new windowagainst your list, to see which will be the best fit for you
Different banks require various documents, so check your chosen bank’s requirements. Here are the most commonly needed documents for opening a UK student bank account:
Proof of Identity (ID) and Immigration status
- Tip: Ensure your ID has a photo. Allow time to collect your BRP card if needed.
- Examples: Passport, UK driver's license, National ID card, Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card.
- Note: Most banks will want to see your BRP card (if you have one) as proof of your immigration status in the UK. Schedule your bank appointment allowing enough time to collect your BRP card once you arrive.
Proof of UK Address
- Tip: Some banks accept a student statusLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window letter or recent signed tenancy agreement. Verify the specific documents required
- Examples: Recent utility bill, bank statement, UK driver's license (if not used as ID), student status letter, signed tenancy agreement.
- Note: Check with the bank, as some may accept certain documents while others may not.
Proof of Student Status (for student accounts)
- Tip: Check what your bank needs as accepted documents can very.
- Examples: Student status letter (downloadable after enrolment), Student ID card, conditional/unconditional offer letter, UCAS confirmation
- Download your Student Status LetterLink opens in a new window
UK Phone Number
- Tip: Some banks require a UK phone number for verification
- Visit the getting a UK mobile number pageLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window for more information
If in doubt, take as many different types of proof as possible, and check with your chosen bank if they will accept your documents.
Avoid Storing Cash
- Bank Appointments: After arriving in the UK, it may take 4-6 weeks to open a traditional bank account. Arrange a digital or international banking solutionLink opens in a new window once you receive your BRP card.
- Cashless Preference: Most places in the UK prefer card payments; all campus cafes and shops are cashless.
Safety Precautions
- General Advice: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If necessary, do not display it.
- Initial Cash Needs: Carry enough cash for transport, emergency accommodation, and initial expenses. Use a pre-arranged bank or prepaid card for other expenses.
- Large Sums: According to the UK Customs informationLink opens in a new window, if you are planning to bring more than £10,000 cash into the UK with you, you must declare it to the Customs official at the airport when you enter the UK. We strongly advise against bringing a large amount of cash.
Note: How to stay safe when using online bankingLink opens in a new window
Access budget planning resources and financial information tailored for home students to manage your expenses effectively.
Learn about secure payment methods like FlywireLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window, as cash payments are not accepted. Ensure you can pay tuition and accommodation fees promptly and securely.
Digital and International Banks
For your initial weeks in the UK, avoid carrying large amounts of cash due to the risk of theft or loss. Instead, use international banking apps and digital wallets, which provide secure and convenient ways to manage your money.
UK Banks in the local area
Familiarise yourself with local banks and their account opening processes. Knowing which banks are available and understanding their services will help you make an informed decision about where to open your account.