Best Student Accounts

Mike1989

rb10 wrote: »

Personally, I think this is something that Natwest push, but I don't think it's actually that much of a benefit to most people. I hardly ever go into my bank. I can withdraw cash from any ATM. Student loans/wages etc will go in automatically. I can do transfers online or on the phone. For modern day students, what's the big benefit of having a branch on campus?

Anyway, on the odd occasion that you do need a branch, every town that has a university also has a Halifax/Lloyds/Barclays/...

Very true, I suppose the one thing that would also come into consideration is call centres. RBS/Natwest, Lloyds and Halifax all have UK based. Barclays are India and UK, Abbey are as well but are well known to be rubbish, HSBC are all over the place. So that might come into consideration. But it is true that on campus banks are not really needed considering they will probably be in the town/city you are in anyway. But it is useful to have them from time to time if you need advice or help as they will probably be more knowledgable on such issues.

ldn-100

chickenboy wrote: »

I went back to uni at the age of 30 last year and my bank has just noticed! They are reducing my overdraft etc, so I'll be changing to their student account or going elsewhere.

But right now if you still have a job and income, you should apply for some credit cards. I'm not saying you should use them, but I don't think you'll be able to get *any* when you have no income.

I have applied and been accepted for Egg Money, Abbey Zero and Lloyds Platinum credit cards since becoming a student at age 29. My income is entirely from grants/loans etc. Its not impossible to get them, however the credit limits I used to get when I was working were much higher. That said, I don't actually need a higher limit and as a student should be looking to do short-medium term borrowing at 0%.

For your student account - go to your existing current account provider and ask for the maximum overdraft they will give you whilst you are still working. Then convert that account into a student account. I am certain this is the only reason I have a £1,800 limit in year 4 at NatWest. Halifax would only offer me £500, Abbey £250 and RBS £0!