How do I open a bank account in the UK?

If you are an International Student, you will need a letter of recommendation from the University in order to open a bank account in the UK. Please collect a ‘Bank Letter Request Form’ from the reception on the ground floor of the Student Welcome Centre.

Please note that you must register with the University, and the address that you provide on the Bank Letter Request Form must correspond to the address that you have provided on your University Record before we can issue the letter of recommendation.

You should be able to collect the letter from the Reception on the ground floor after 24 hours (not including weekends).

Please present this information, and a document confirming your identity (e.g. passport) to the bank of your choice in order to open an account. Some banks may also require a further confirmation of address. This could be your tenancy agreement.

For further information on identity requirements, advice on preventing tax deduction on saving, etc. please visit the UKCISA ‘Opening a bank account’ help-sheet.