Top Bank Accounts for 2020
The top bank accounts based on student reviews collected over 2019.
Want to know what bank accounts are best for students? So did we. So we asked them. We surveyed 250 students on our Student Hut Opinion Panel to bring you the best student essentials. Students ranked the best bank accounts out of 10, on things like overdraft allowance, cashback, rewards, referral schemes and ease of use. Here are the top bank account recommendations for students, by students.
1. Starling Bank
It only launched in 2014, but Starling has quickly become a favourite among students. Offering award-winning, app-based accounts, this bank's flexibility has attracted many with its 24/7 customer support and budgeting tools.
2. Revolut
Another app-based banking option, Revolut promises no hidden fees or rubbish exchange rates, making it the perfect student travelling companion. Perks include £200 a month in international ATM withdrawals – for free!
3. Monzo
A favourite for students and travellers alike, Monzo offers a great variety of personal accounts to its customers. Features include little-to-no withdrawal fees abroad, and no additional charges when you spend overseas.
4. TSB Bank
TSB’s student account is packed full of helpful tips on how to get the most out of your time at uni, and how to budget to make sure that loan lasts longer. They offer a tiered £1,500 overdraft to new students, and a handy round-up tool, making saving the pennies even easier.
5. Nationwide
Nationwide’s FlexStudent account is a firm favourite with students, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a tiered overdraft scheme of up to £3,000 over your three years at uni, and are the UK’s only fee-free student banking provider.
6. Santander
Being a student comes with its fair share of train travel, whether that’s going home to see the parents or visiting friends at far-flung unis. With Santander’s 1|2|3 student account, you get a 16-25 railcard, absolutely free, saving a third on all fares!
7. Natwest
NatWest gives students the choice of three great offers when they sign up for a student account. As well as an interest-free overdraft up to £2,000, you can get a free Amazon Prime Student membership, a tastecard, or a National Express Coachcard.
8. Barclays
Barclays’ banking app is one of the most intuitive to use out there at the moment, making keeping track of your finances easier than ever. Students can also get cashback on highstreet purchases in tonnes of clothes stores and food chains!
9. HSBC
While we’re talking banking apps, HSBC’s is pretty much tailor-made for students. They let you pay your mates at the tap of a button through Paym, making those restaurant bills and taxi fares even easier to split.
10. Lloyds Bank
Lloyds make banking uncomplicated for students. Their simple, easy-to-navigate app makes moving money around quick and easy, while easy integration with Apple Pay and Google Pay make purchases on the go seamless. Perfect for the SU bar, if you ask us.