Setting up a bank account

Many international students other than struggling with the decisions to spend their budget on booze or books can often find it challenging setting up a bank account as an international student. That being said these tips should help smooth or at least speed the process up a bit.

First off before setting up an account check with your bank in your home country to see if they have any special relationships with banks in Scotland or if they can assist you in opening up an account.

Depending on where you live in Glasgow most people will choose a bank that is either close to their home or close to the school. To name a few, some of the main banks are
- Clydsedale
- Bank of Scotland
- The Royal Bank of Scotland
- Lloyds

All of the banks will be able to offer you a student account.

To speed things up when you go to open up an account be sure to have the following documents with you
- Passport
- Letter from school (ie. unconditional offer letter) showing that you are a student
- Proof of address
One other item that might be helpful to bring with you (depending on the type of account you want to set up) is a letter of reference from your home bank as this can be helpful in establishing a credit rating.

If you are living in the schools accomodations, the Accomodations office can provide you with a proof of residence letter. The Accomodations office will type you up a letter and address it to the bank you have choosen to open your account at.

One thing to keep in mind is that setting up an account does take time, maybe up to 5 weeks so it is good to bring enough money with you to cover your expenses during this time. It is best not to carry large amounts of money with you, use either travellers checks or a bankers draft at this time.

Happy Banking!