There are many different kinds of banks in the UK and each has different offers for international students as well as different requirements for opening an account. It is advisable to phone the bank to ask what requirements they have and to compare the offers of different banks before deciding on one.
Most banks offer two kinds of main account types: current accounts, which come with a cheque book and a cash or debit card, and deposit (or savings) accounts, which pay higher levels of interest but may be less flexible. Some banks also offer special student accounts.
Most banks will require you to bring at least the following documentation to open an account:
- your passport (or national ID card with photo and signature for EU students) and visa
- a letter of acceptance from UWE
- evidence of UK address.
You may also be asked for:
- proof of your home address
- information about your bank account in your home country or a letter of reference from your bank.
Please check with the bank you want to open an account at for details on what you need to bring.
For more information on the UK banking system and various account types, visit UKCOSA.