Are you about to embark on the next stage of your education and are planning on studying in the UK? If so, you will no doubt be brimming with excitement and nerves. A chance to make lifelong friends.
Are you about to embark on the next stage of your education and are planning on studying in the UK? If so, you will need an international student bank account. You will no doubt be brimming with excitement and nerves. A chance to make lifelong friends. The thrill of experiencing a new culture. The challenge of learning in some of the best Universities in the world.
However, whether you are in the EU or not, one of your first priorities should be opening a Suits Me® International Student Account.
Why do you need a UK account if you are an international student?
There are many reasons you will need a UK bank account if you are an international students. We have listed the main ones for you below:
- Rent or University accommodation is usually paid by Direct Debit
- Utilities (gas, electric and water), savings can be made by setting direct debit but you could opt for a pre-payment meter
- Council tax payments are usually direct debit
- Mobile Phone contract
- International transfers (to and from your account)
- Debit card payments
Basic requirements
Suits Me® have made the initial process of opening an account straightforward and quick. Unlike traditional banks we will not insist on a face-to-face meeting so you don’t get stuck waiting much longer than you anticipated to get your account up and running. Our friendly and experienced and multi-lingual customer service team have you covered. We offer simple and quick online applications. You’ll be able to upload your information from wherever you may be.
You’re going to need 4 simple pieces of information to open a Suits Me® International Student account:
- ID Card, Passport or UK Driving License
- A UK address to send you your debit card
And that is all!
There’s going to be a whole new world of social, cultural and educational experiences waiting for you to enjoy. It’s going to be important to take care of your funds. There are various options available for international Student banking and researching these can be a lengthy process. Unlike Suits Me®, many high street banks require a minimum of 3 months proof of address in the UK. This is before you can open the most basic of accounts.
Most traditional banks offering International Student Bank Accounts, involve lengthy and complex paperwork submissions. They are unsuitable for students on Intern programmes. Minimum residency restrictions can more often than not rule some traditional banks out entirely.
Other help and support for International students in the UK
Alongside a bank account, there are other organisations that can help you as an international student.
The UKCISA have a range of advice and information available to international students. This includes information about immigration, fees, mental health support and working opportunities.
Great British Magazine has lots of information about life as a student in the UK. This digital magazine can help you understand if studying in the UK is right for you.
Student Minds is a website focused on student well-being and mental health. It is the biggest in the UK and has lots of helpful tips on how to stay mentally healthy throughout your time at University.
British Council and Study UK website has guidance and practical advice about how to apply to a University in the UK, scholarship opportunities and grants.
Student Union is run by existing and former student volunteers. The volunteers will help you with any issues you have including discrimination or bullying.
Summary
After you have finalised your place and VISA to study in the UK, an international student bank account should be high on your priority. Suits Me® has helped thousands of international students set up an account in the UK. The multi-lingual service team are particularly helpful if there is assistance you need. The monthly cashback offered to all account holders is one of the big incentives for students who want to earn as they spend!
With a Suits Me® International Student account, you can get on with enjoying an experience of a lifetime.
