Find the nearest bank to you

Student bank accounts offer the opportunity to have financial flexibility when starting university. Whether it's your first time opening an account or you would like to switch to a student one, we'll break down the steps and go back to the basics to make life a little easier.

Banks near Queen Mary

Whilst mobile-app banking has become more popular, reducing the necessity of daily visits to your bank branch, knowing where the nearest branches are is still important. It can help with cash management, provide immediate access in case of any issues, and provide security. 

Your local banks:

• Lloyds: 3-5 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1DU
• Natwest: Black Lion House, 45 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1DU
• Barclays: 240 Whitechapel Road, London, E1 1DU
• Santander: One Canada Square, Unit 2, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AB

Why open a student account?

The benefits of having a student account vary, but most offer:

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

How do I set up an account?

Follow these steps to get your bank account up and running:

1. Confirm eligibility - generally, 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:

• 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 (offers available as of 17/02/26)

• Santander (Edge Student): 4-year 16-25 railcard (saving on travel) and a guaranteed £1,500 0% overdraft interest-free, increasing up to £3,000.
• Natwest: Offers up to £3,250 interest-free overdraft, plus a £85 cash bonus and a 4-year Tastecard for discounts.
• Nationwide (FlexStudent): Provides a high 0% overdraft (up to £3,000 by third year) and offers cash bonuses (e.g., £100) or vouchers.
• Lloyds/Halifax: Offering £100 cash bonuses and food delivery vouchers (e.g., Deliveroo).

3. Set up an account - Provide required details, including course information and pass a credit check.

4. Activate account - Once you've been approved, you will receive your card and pin by post. 

Are you an international student?

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

• Lloyds Bank International Student Account
• HSBC International Student Account
• Santander and Natwest Student Accounts are the same, and still work the same for international students

Key Information:

When to apply: You can apply as soon as your place is confirmed, so apply asap!

Apps/online banking: Mobile apps make it easier to manage money on the go, so we'd recommend opting for using the app over anything else.

Overdraft: Going over your agreed limit could lead to charges and might affect your credit score in the future - only use your overdraft as a last resort.

Now you're all ready to open your student account. Starting uni can be overwhelming, but managing your money doesn't have to be.