Open a UK bank account

Do you need a UK bank?

Opening a bank account in the UK is a very good idea, but not essential.

It can make living in Manchester cheaper and easier. 

If you have a UK bank account, you can:

• save money – for example, by setting up automated payments for utility bills and services like your mobile phone contract 
• manage your money more easily – for example, you can pay your tuition fees in instalments
• get paid for any work you do – most employers pay by bank transfer

That’s why almost all international students set up a UK account. 

HOW TO CHOOSE A BANK

We cannot advise you on which is the best bank or account. The bank that is best for you will depend on your circumstances. If you require advice on this, there are many sources of advice and information about banks in the UK, including:

• UK government advice on choosing the right bank, which represents the banks
• UK Council for International Student Affairs

You can also speak to your bank in your home country. It might have links with a British bank and be able to set an account up more quickly and easily. 

Before you decide, try to compare a few banks. You can find reviews of bank accounts for international students on websites such as Save the Student, the Times Higher Education Supplement and other consumer organisations.

Among the things to look for are:

• whether you must pay an initial fee or monthly charge
• if the account is free, does it have all the features you need?
• what charges apply for receiving money from overseas – and how long will it take to process transfers?