Banking

Banking

Opening a UK bank account as an international student is recommended as it is a safe and effective way to manage your money. There are several banks close to Central including:

Barclays Bank PLC131 Finchley Rd, London, NW3 6JA
03457 345 345 (+44345 7345345)
Halifax169A Finchley Rd, London, NW3 6LB
0207 445 9434 (+442074459434 from overseas)
Santander8 Harben Parade, Finchley Rd, London, NW3 6JN
0800 030 4321 (+44800 030 4321 from overseas)
Natwest106 Finchley Road, London, NW3 5JN. 
03457 888 444  (+442088044892 from overseas)
HSBC122 Finchley Road, London, NW3 5JD
03456 040 626 (+44 1226 261 010 from overseas)

Certain banks will allow you to begin the process of setting up a UK bank account from your home country before you arrive. We advise you to look into links your current bank may have with UK banks, as this can make the process easier. International students may need to arrange an appointment to open a bank account in person. September and October are the busiest times for opening new accounts so it’s advisable to book an appointment as soon as you have decided who you are going to bank with.

What is needed to open a bank account?

Bank requirements and identity checks vary, but items you will need to open an account are likely to include:

  • Passport/Visa
  • Letter of enrolment from Central
  • A document confirming your address in London

To get a letter of enrolment to open a bank account before you start at Central, please email with the following information and you will then be able to collect a letter from the Student Advice Service:

  • Name
  • Student number
  • UK address
  • Name and address of the bank where you are opening your account

What are the benefits to having a UK bank account?

  • Having one means you don’t incur charges for withdrawing money using your home bank account
  • Enables you to get a part-time job as a UK bank account is needed for your employers to pay up wages in to
  • Gives you the option to pay bills by Direct Debit (money taken out of your account automatically) such a mobile phone contract or other bills such as Wi-Fi at home

What bank should you choose?

Central doesn’t endorse any particular bank although we recommend you research to see which one will meet your needs best.

It’s important to consider the following when choosing:

  • Is there a branch close to Central or where you live that can easily accessed?
  • What facilities do they offer such as a Student Account with an overdraft facility?
  • How much will they charge for overseas transfers?

Further Information

You may wish to read information and advice from the following external websites:

Please note that these links are provided for guidance only and do not constitute an endorsement of any kind by Central.

Contact

Student Advice Service

sas@cssd.ac.uk

+44 (0)20 7559 3900