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Opening a UK bank account

How to open a bank account in the UK, including how to request proof of your student status.

Local banks

Banks in the city centre

There are several banks in the city of Bath.

Choosing a bank

You can visit the banks in person, find out information on their websites or compare bank accounts at MoneySuperMarket.

Check the terms and conditions of an account carefully (for example, if there are any monthly costs).

Please note that it is often only possible to open a basic bank account (current and savings accounts) in the UK. You can check the Money Advice Service for information about different types of accounts.

If you are under 18 you may not be able to have a student account, however, you should still be able to open a UK bank account. Different banks can give you information on their accounts for under 18s.

Opening your account

Please check on the banks website what documents you will need to open your account. You may be able to open your bank account on-line rather than needing to visit a bank in person. Please check the requirements for your specific bank before you visit.

Documents that banks may need to open your account include:

  • your passport and visa
  • a letter from the University with your UK and overseas addresses on it

How to get a letter of proof of student status

If you want to open a bank account, you may need a letter to prove you are a student.

You need to follow these steps to get a letter:

  1. Go to Registration Online to complete all parts of the registration.
  2. Request a bank letter by clicking 'to whom letter request'.
  3. Select 'to a bank or building society'.
  4. Enter the name of the bank you wish to open the account with.

Enquiries

If you have any questions, please contact us.


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