Opening a student bank account

Find the nearest bank near you!

Opening a student bank account when you arrive at university can give you financial flexibility and freedom. Whether it's your first time opening an account or you'd like to switch to a student one, here is an easy guide to opening a new account to make your life a little easier.

Banks near Southampton University

Highfield Campus

The closest bank branches are clustered in the city centre along Above Bar Street, which is a 10-15 minute bus ride (the U1 or U2 Unilink) away:

• Lloyds Bank - 92-94 Above Bar Street
• Barclays - 70 Above Bar Street
• HSBC - 55 Above Bar Street
• Halifax - 63-65 Above Bar Street

Why open a student account?

There are so many benefits to having a student account, and most offer:

• Large interest-free overdrafts
• Bonuses: free cash when signing up/switching accounts, railcards, monthly vouchers/offers
• Tools to help keep track of spending
• Exclusive discounts: access to student-specific rewards, cashback on purchases, and reduced-fee services.

How to set up an account

1. Confirm eligibility

You must be a UK resident (3+ years) and enrolled in a full-time higher education course (or a verified international student who has applied in advance).

Documents you will need:

• Identity: Passport or Driver's Licence
• Address: Utility bill, bank statement or tenancy agreement
• Student status: UCAS letter, university acceptance letter or Student ID

2. Select a bank

• Lloyds Student Account: up to £1,500 interest-free overdraft in years 1 to 3, cashback on everyday spending, £100 cash and up to £120 in Deliveroo vouchers when opening an account or changing your existing account to a Student account between 30 July and 30 October.
• Barclays Student Account: up to £1,500 interest-free overdraft.
• HSBC Student Account: up to £3,000 interest-free overdraft and home&away offers.
• Halifax Student Account: up to £1,500 interest-free overdraft, £100 cash when you open an account and pay in at least £500, and earn £15 a month in Deliveroo vouchers.

3. Set up an account

Make sure you provide the required details, including course information and pass a credit check.

4. Activate your account

Once you've been approved, you'll receive your card and PIN by post.

What if I'm an international student?

For international students, you may require specific documents such as a passport or visa, and sometimes banks have smaller/restricted overdrafts. However, some banks offer International Student accounts, but proof of status is required.

• Lloyds Bank International Student Account
• HSBC International Student Account

Key Information 💡

You're ready to open your account! Remember that managing your money early can help you a lot, and your future self will thank you.