Open a Student bank account
Why apply for our Student bank account?
Given the success of our last offer, we are launching an offer of £50 and a 4-year tastecard worth £39.99*. T&Cs apply.
Up to £2000 interest-free overdraft in your 1st year (£500 in your first term) with an instant online decision.
Withdraw up to £130 without your card every 24 hours at our ATMs (as long as it’s within your daily withdrawal limit, criteria applies).
You can switch using the Current Account Switch Service.
No monthly fee.
*Cost based on lowest price offer available direct from tastecard. Correct as of 05/09/22
To apply, you must be 17+ and have been living in the UK for at least 3 years. Online applications only.
You need to be a full time undergraduate student (on at least a 2-year course at a UK University/College) or you need to be completing a full time postgraduate or nursing course lasting a year or more. You can apply within 6 months of your course start date.
To apply for an overdraft, you need to be 18+. You can add an overdraft to your account once your course has started.
You must use your Student account as your main account by depositing regular income into it.
Are you an international student?
If you’ve lived in the UK for more than 3 years, you can apply for our Student account. If not, then you’re recognised by us as an international student and are not eligible for our Student account. See our current accounts hub for other options.
Hassle free banking with our mobile app
App available to customers aged 11+ with compatible iOS and Android devices and a UK or international mobile number in specific countries.
Understanding overdrafts
Switch to NatWest
The Current Account Switch Service will do all the work when it comes to switching, moving everything across from your old account to your new account all within 7 working days, including Direct Debits and standing orders. All you need to do is tell us the details of your old bank account and when you want the Switch to start.
We can not switch savings accounts or ISAs through this service. Any other products you have with your old bank will not be moved at the same time.
Current Account Switch Guarantee (PDF, 39KB)
Student FAQs
Get ready to apply
Before you apply, we need to check you're happy with a few things. And ask you a few questions up front. Then we can make your application as quick and simple as it can be.
First things first. You can apply if you are:
aged 17 or over and have been living in the UK for at least 3 years
completing a full-time undergraduate course that lasts at least 2 years or completing a full-time postgraduate course, or
training as a nurse at a UK university or college of higher education
completing a course that has already started, or is starting within the next 6 months.
Now please take a look at the important legal stuff
If you carry on applying, it means you're happy with what's in these documents, including the FSCS information sheet. And happy to view your statements in Online Banking - not posted. Please take some time to review, print and/or save the important information.
How your information might be used
It's important for you to understand how we use and share your information. Please read this short summary before you continue with your application.