Personal
Bank account
Student account

£85 and a 4 year tastecard. T&Cs apply.

Open a Student bank account

A Student bank account is a current account designed for those heading off to further education. Find out about additional benefits and apply for a Student bank account.

On this page

£85 and tastecard offer Open in new window

Understanding student overdrafts Open in new window

Ways you can pay Open in new window

Student bank account FAQs Open in new window

Ready to apply Open in new window

To apply for a Student bank account, you must be 17+ and have been living in the UK for at least 3 years. Online applications only.
To confirm you’re a student and eligible for this account, we require your unique 16 digit UCAS code. Courses without a UCAS code are not eligible for our Student account.
You need to be a full-time undergraduate student (on at least a 2-year course at a UK university/college) or on a nursing course lasting a year or more. You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date.
You must use your Student account as your main account by depositing student finance, wages, or other regular income into it.

Student bank account offer

Apply for a NatWest Student bank account and get £85 and a free 4 year tastecard worth £79.99 per year*

*Annual tastecard value excluding any offers. Correct as of May 2025.

Information Message

Ready to apply Open in new window

Student Offer

£85 and a free 4 year tastecard.

Get £85 cash.

An annual tastecard, worth £79.99 per year*. Get 25% off the total bill, 2 for 1 meals or 50% off food as well as the newest addition 25% off barista-made drinks, available at thousands of restaurants and coffee shops across the UK. Also, with exclusive offers for students with discounts on movie streaming, attractions, membership perks with a tastecard membership. Valid for 4 years.

Receive your cash offer within 10 working days of opening your account. We'll send your tastecard redemption code to your email address. Offer T&Cs apply.

This offer can be withdrawn at any time due to limited availability.

If you have received a student offer from NatWest at any time from 1st July 2021 you will not be eligible.

Information Message

Why open a Student bank account?

Finding the best student bank account for you is a big decision. Whether you’re already enjoying university life or planning ahead for your first year on campus, you could apply to open a Student account with NatWest today.

Our Student bank account offers these benefits:

Interest-free overdraft - get an overdraft of up to £2,000 from year one (limited to £500 in term one, year one), with an instant online decision. Students can apply for up to £3,250 interest free from year three onwards.

No monthly Student current account fees. There are no ongoing fees for managing your Student bank account.

Easily managed through our app. Stay on top of a Student bank account from the palm of your hand.

Award-winning account for students

This Student account packs a punch - that's why it's award-winning.

YourMoney.com voted NatWest as 'Best Student Current Account Provider' in 2025, plus this current account was given 5 stars by the Defaqto experts in 2025.

Open a Student bank account today Open in new window

Information Message

To apply for an overdraft, you need to be aged 18+. You can add an overdraft to your account once your course has started.

Make use of a student overdraft

Our Student bank account comes with an interest-free overdraft:

Get an overdraft of up to £2,000 on Student bank accounts from year one (limited to £500 in term one, year one), with an instant online decision.

Students can apply for up to £3,250 interest-free from year three onwards.

Going to university comes with a range of costs and bills, as the annual NatWest Student Living Index reveals. So, a Student bank account overdraft may be a handy short-term option. And because it’s interest-free, you won’t pay any interest on what you spend.

How do overdrafts work?

There are two different types of overdraft:

An arranged overdraft, which allows you to go overdrawn up to an agreed limit. This is the type of overdraft you could apply for on our Student bank accounts in the UK. During your application for an arranged overdraft, we'll run a full credit check to determine how much we can offer you.
An unarranged overdraft. This is when you spend more money than you have in your current account without already having an arranged overdraft, or when you exceed your current arranged overdraft limit.

Arranged overdrafts are interest-free on our Student accounts. You won’t have to worry about paying interest, so long as you stay within your overdraft limit.

However, going into an unarranged overdraft could lead to payments being rejected.

Once you leave university, we’ll move you on to a Graduate bank account. Your interest-free overdraft will then reduce until the fourth year after graduation. At that point, you’ll move to a Select account and the interest-free overdraft will end.

How much will a Student overdraft cost?

Our Student bank account offers an overdraft facility (subject to eligibility). You can check if you’re likely to be accepted for an overdraft using our eligibility tool.

Looking to understand the costs of an overdraft less than or above £500 over different periods? Try our handy overdraft cost calculator.

Learn more about our student overdraft Open in new window

Ways to pay with our Student bank account

Debit card

Brand-new plastic

Shop online or pay in-store with a new student debit card linked to your bank account.

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Do more with your debit card Open in new window

Contactless

Shop, tap and go

Tap-and-bleep your debit card to check out up to £100 in shops, restaurants, and more.

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Get to grips with contactless Open in new window

Apple or Google Pay

Banking from your phone

Paying for items on your iPhone or Android phone is simple. Buy things online or in-store with a tap. Criteria and retailer limits apply.

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Setting up a digital wallet Open in new window

Direct Debit

For regular bills

Got a regular bill to pay via Direct Debit? Setting them up is easy with a NatWest Student account.

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Learn more about Direct Debits Open in new window

Manage your Student account with our app

See how much you have in your Student current account and transfer money between accounts from your smartphone. Students save on average £109 per month, according to our Student Living Index 2024. Easily move money into your savings account with our app.

Try the NatWest mobile app today

App available to customers aged 11+ with compatible iOS and Android devices and a UK or international mobile number in specific countries.

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)

A Guide to Switching Current Accounts (PDF, 3MB)

How does the Current Account Switch Service work?

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,

a student. To be eligible for this account, you must provide your 16 digit UCAS code. Courses without a UCAS code are not eligible for our Student account,

completing a full-time undergraduate course that lasts at least 2 years 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.

Your Current Account Terms (28 pages)

All kinds of general info about our current accounts. Including details about the Student Account.

Download PDF (169 KB)

Financial Services Compensation Scheme Sheet (2 pages)

Very important information about how your money is protected. Just in case.

Download PDF (105 KB)

Fee Information Document (20 pages)

How much our charges will be. From taking cash out abroad to an unarranged overdraft.

Download PDF (133 KB)

What You Need To Know (2 pages)

Important basic info about the bank. For example, who regulates us and how to complain (hopefully you won't need that bit).

Download PDF (45 KB)

Student offer T&Cs (1 page)

Important information on our Student offer.

Download PDF (52 KB)

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 Student account application.

All okay? You’re nearly ready to start.

To speed up your application for our Student account, we need to do a few final checks with you. They'll only take a minute.

Continue

Do we already know you?

Please choose an option below to continue

I'm a completely new customer

I'm an existing customer

Have you lived in the UK for:

Please choose an option below to continue

3 Years or more

Less than 3 years

Are you ready to provide us with your UCAS code?

To confirm you’re a student and eligible for this account we require your unique 16-digit UCAS code. If you can’t find your code, log into your UCAS hub or contact UCAS on 0371 468 0468 before starting the application.

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

You're all set

Your application will be completely online, as part of our checks we'll ask our partner Mitek to confirm your identity using;

Proof of your UK student status, such as your: UCAS status code.
We’ll do this by matching your Photo ID to a selfie of you. You’ll need a device with a camera to upload these. We might also ask for other information like proof of address. If you don’t have your ID to hand, you can finish this step later.
Photo ID, which must be a Passport, UK or EU/EEA Driving Licence or an EU/EEA National ID card
Proof of your address, such as a utility bill, bank statement, driving license, UCAS letter, Student Finance letter or a letter from your University.

Sorry you can’t apply for a Student account at the moment

We need to confirm you are eligible for this account, to do this, you must provide your 16 digit UCAS code. Courses without a UCAS code are not eligible for our student account.

If you are completing a full-time undergraduate course that lasts at least 2 years or, training as a nurse at a UK university or college of higher education, you will have been provided with a UCAS code. You can apply if you are completing a course that has already started, or is starting within the next 6 months.

Don’t worry, we have a range of other current accounts which may suit your banking needs.

View current accounts

Sorry, you can't apply for this account

Sorry, we can't offer you the account you applied for.

You can view our full range of accounts and apply for suitable one.

Compare our range

Do you have our app on a mobile device?

You can apply using either the mobile app or Online Banking. The mobile app is easier and quicker as we can prefill some of your information.

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

No, but I can download it

Here's a few steps to get started

If you're already using a device with the NatWest app, select the 'Start application' button below.

You will need the most up to date version of the app, to make changes to your account.

To open a new account:

Once logged in to the app, choose 'Apply' and then current accounts.
Then choose what type of account you would like to open.

To change your account type or switch into your existing account:

Once logged in, click into the account you wish to change or switch.
Choose either the 'Change my account type' or 'Switch my account' option.

Can't scan the QR code?

Start your application

Do you have NatWest Online Banking?

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

Yes, but I need to reset my information.

Enter your customer number or 16-digit card number to get started.
You'll then need to enter your Online Banking pin and password.
Once you're logged in follow the below

To open a new account:

Select 'Current accounts' from 'Our Products'.
Choose the account you want to apply for and complete your application.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Choose the account you wish to change or switch, click 'Account details'. Then choose either the 'Switch to us form' or review the section 'Want to change to a different type of current account?' to begin your application.

Sign up for Online Banking

You’ll need to sign up for Online Banking with us to apply for a current account. The good news is that it normally takes only 5 minutes and all you’ll need is your sort code, account number and your NatWest Debit Card, if you have one.

Select ‘How to register for Online Banking' to start.

How to register for Online Banking

Head to 'Register for Online Banking'.
Enter your personal details. We’ll need details including your name, date of birth, sort code and account number.
We’ll show you your customer number on screen (you're making good progress at this point). Make a note of it as you’ll need it when you log in, in the future. If we don't need anything else from you you'll skip straight to step 7, but you may need to go to step 4, don't worry we'll let you know on screen.
We'll then send you an activation code. We'll send you your activation code in a text message. Or if we don’t have your phone number, we’ll send it through the post.
Go to the NatWest website and select ‘Log in’ in the top right-hand corner, have your activation code to hand.
On the log in page, type in your customer number and activation code.
Now you need to choose a password and PIN and commit them to memory. The PIN should be four digits long and your password can be between six and twenty characters, and contain both letters and numbers.
Done, finished, complete. Now you can manage your finances anywhere you can get online.

Once you’ve registered, select ‘Next’ to log in and apply for a Student account.

I am now signed up

Log in to NatWest Online Banking

Enter your customer number or 16-digit card number to get started.
You'll then need to enter your Online Banking pin and password.
Once you're logged in follow the below

To open a new account:

Select 'Current accounts' from 'Our Products'.
Choose the account you want to apply for and complete your application.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Choose the account you wish to change or switch, click 'Account details'. Then choose either the 'Switch to us form' or review the section 'Want to change to a different type of current account?' to begin your application.

Forgotten your Online Banking Details?

If you've forgotten your log in details, don't worry, select 'Reset my Online Banking' for further instructions.

Reset Online Banking details

How to download and apply via the app

First, download the app:

On your mobile or tablet, open the camera and point your device at the QR code.
Follow the link that pops up to download the app.
Use your details to log in and follow the below.

To open a new account:

Once logged in to the app, choose 'Apply' and then 'Current accounts'.
Then choose what type of account you would like to open.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Click into the account you wish to change or switch, then select 'Change my account type' or 'Switch my account' to begin your application.

Can't scan the QR code?

Available on selected devices.

Download app

Student account FAQs

What ID is needed to open a Student account?

To open our account for students, you'll need:

UK Passport or Driver's Licence (full or provisional)
Proof of address - Driver's Licence, Utility Bill or Bank Statement. If you don’t have one of these, you can use one of the documents we ask for to verify your UK student status.

To confirm you're a student and eligible for this account, we require your unique 16 digit UCAS status code. Courses without a UCAS code are not eligible for our student account. If you can't find your code, log into your UCAS hub or contact UCAS on 03714 680 468, before starting the application.

What happens to my Student account after I graduate?

After you graduate, your Student bank account will switch to a Graduate account. We’ll let you know about 60 days in advance, so there are no unexpected surprises.

How do I claim my Student bank account offers?

A free 4 year tastecard is among the features of our Student bank account.

If you’re eligible, we’ll send your tastecard redemption code to your email address after setting up a Student account. We’ll use the email address provided during your application to contact you about your tastecard.

What do I need to verify my student status?

To confirm you’re a student and eligible for this account, we require your unique 16 digit UCAS status code. Courses without a UCAS code are not eligible for our Student account. If you can’t find your code, log in to your UCAS Hub (opens in new tab) or contact UCAS on 0371 468 0468, before starting the application.

Can you have multiple student bank accounts?

You can only have one Student account with NatWest Group (NatWest/Royal Bank/Ulster Bank) at a time. If you try to open more than one Student account in the UK, you’ll only receive the benefits of the account once.

How do I apply for a Student bank account overdraft?

You can apply for an overdraft once your Student account is open. If your course has started or is about to start, you might be able to apply for an overdraft while opening your Student account. You’ll need to be 18+ years. Subject to lending criteria.

If you’re approved, your interest-free overdraft limit is £500 in year one, term one. You can apply to increase the overdraft up to £2,000 from term two, year one. Students from year three onwards can apply for up to £3,250.

You can apply for an overdraft on your Student bank account at any time once your course has started, with an instant online decision.

See how overdrafts work

Can an international student get a bank account in the UK?

If you’ve lived in the UK for more than three years, you can apply for our Student bank account.

If not, we’ll recognise you as an international student. And that means you won’t be eligible for our Student account.

The good news? We have plenty of other current account options. So long as you’re classed as a UK resident, you could apply for a Select everyday account or a Reward account.

How do I get additional support with my banking?

Banking My Way is a free service that allows you to record information about the support or adjustments you need to make banking easier. You can also let us know any additional support you may need to ensure all our colleagues are aware of this. The information will be shared on our internal systems, so you will not need to repeat these requirements every time you interact with us.

Once your account is open, you can record this through Online Banking or with our colleagues in branches or over the phone.

Learn more about Banking My Way

What is a Student bank account?

Student bank accounts are a type of UK current account specifically designed for students.

They typically work in the same way as a standard current account – giving you somewhere to manage your day-to-day spending, bill payments, and income while at university.

Student accounts may offer extra features, including interest-free overdrafts, discounts and offers. So, it’s helpful to compare student bank accounts before applying.

When you finish studying, your NatWest Student bank account will automatically switch to a Graduate account.

Already have a Student account with us?

From handy tools to common student banking questions, we have plenty of resources to help you through university.

Find everything you need to manage an existing Student bank account.

Get help and support Open in new window

More help for students

How much will I spend as a student?

When you’re setting out on your student life, it can be tricky to know how much day-to-day living will cost. Our guide can help you there.

Take a look at the Student Living Index Open in new window

Compare current accounts

Still weighing up the best student bank account for you? Don’t worry. We could help you make the right choice.

Compare current accounts today Open in new window

Build your budget

Not sure where your money goes each month? Want to save a little more? We can help you with our budget calculator.

Calculate your budget Open in new window

Open a Student bank account

Student bank account offer

Student Offer

Why open a Student bank account?

Award-winning account for students

Make use of a student overdraft

Ways to pay with our Student bank account

Debit card

Contactless

Apple or Google Pay

Direct Debit

Manage your Student account with our app

Switch to NatWest

Get ready to apply

First things first. You can apply if you are:

Now please take a look at the important legal stuff

Your Current Account Terms (28 pages)

Financial Services Compensation Scheme Sheet (2 pages)

Fee Information Document (20 pages)

What You Need To Know (2 pages)

Student offer T&Cs (1 page)

How your information might be used

All okay? You’re nearly ready to start.

You're all set

Sorry you can’t apply for a Student account at the moment

Sorry, you can't apply for this account

Here's a few steps to get started

Log in to Online Banking

Sign up for Online Banking

How to register for Online Banking

Log in to NatWest Online Banking

Forgotten your Online Banking Details?

How to download and apply via the app

Student account FAQs

What ID is needed to open a Student account?

What happens to my Student account after I graduate?

How do I claim my Student bank account offers?

What do I need to verify my student status?

Can you have multiple student bank accounts?

How do I apply for a Student bank account overdraft?

Can an international student get a bank account in the UK?

How do I get additional support with my banking?

What is a Student bank account?

Already have a Student account with us?

More help for students

How much will I spend as a student?

Compare current accounts

Build your budget