Opening a UK Bank Account

All students who are studying at the University for one year or longer are eligible to open a UK bank account.  For shorter visits the choice is more limited, and we recommend that you seek more information from banks directly.  This process may take up to two weeks if you have all the required documentation ready to go beforehand.

It is important you recognise this service is for the setting up of a current account so you can, for example, then set up a Direct Debit mandate so the money due for your rent will be collected automatically. This facility will not help with any other banking requirements at this stage, such as taking out loans or getting a credit card.

You can find out more information on how to open a bank account here:  www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/finance/banking