Can I open a student account during my gap year?

rh2430

Hi, does anybody know whether or not I am permitted to open a student account now although I am not starting uni until next September? I have tried most highstreet banks but have been declined and was wondering whether it was a rule for all banks? If I can't open it know when will be the earliest I can open it?
Thanks in advance

techno_geek

Which banks have you been to?

I'm sure that HSBC and NatWest offer specialist "Gap Year" accounts which then upgrade to Student accounts the following September.

HSBC are also happy to give Credit Cards to Gap students, which is useful as a just-in-case fallback!

DrFluffy

If you now have an unconditional offer, most places will allow you to open one. If you're both gapping and applying this year, then no, although as pointed out a lot of banks do a bridging one year 'gap' account...

sarah_2-2

I've just finished a gapyear and opened a Natwest student account a year ago to get my free railcard. I had to show them the letter from UCAS saying I had an unconditional offer from my uni (or any letter really proving you're in- if need be, the uni should be able to write one for you). They also didn't let me have an overdraft until I started uni, but then again it's probably a good thing I don't start in debt!