💷Bank-related Informations

To apply for a bank account, you'll need a bank letter (official document provided by your university confirming your enrollment and local address). It's required by most banks in the UK to open a student bank account.

To collect a bank letter from your Manchester University, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Student Services Centre or the International Office at your university.

2. Request a bank letter. You may need to provide your student ID, passport, and proof of residence.

3. Wait for the letter to be prepared. This may take a few minutes up until days, so plan accordingly.

4. Collect the letter in person.

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Lists of Banks in Manchester with Pros and Cons

1. HSBC

   • Pros: Wide international presence, useful for international students. Offers a dedicated student account with benefits.

   • Cons: Might require a branch visit for account opening.

   • Account Registration: HSBC Student Account Registration

2. Barclays

   • Pros: Offers a feature-rich student account. Good mobile banking app.

   • Cons: Could have better customer service ratings.

   • Account Registration: Barclays Student Account Registration

3. NatWest

   • Pros: Provides incentives for students, like cashback offers. Good online banking experience.

   • Cons: Limited international services compared to HSBC.

   • Account Registration: NatWest Student Account Registration

4. Santander

   • Pros: Offers a free Railcard, saving money on train fares. Competitive overdraft offers.

   • Cons: Branch visits might be required for some services.

   • Account Registration: Santander Student Account Registration

5. Lloyds

   • Pros: Good for international students; offers a free international student account.

   • Cons: Overdraft facility is less competitive.

   • Account Registration: Lloyds Student Account Registration

6. Monzo

   • Pros: Operates entirely online with a top-rated app

   • Cons: No physical branches; fees for international ATM

   • Account Registration: Monzo Student Account Registration

7. Revolut

   • Pros: free international transactions.

   • Cons: No overdrafts or loans; Potential delays in customer service.

   • Account Registration: Revolut Student Account Registration

Pro tip #1: You can also apply for regular accounts instead of student accounts.

Pro tip #2: Most banks offer an online application process. You'll typically need your passport, visa, proof of address in the UK, and a university acceptance letter or bank letter.

Some banks may require you to visit a branch in person to complete your application, especially for identity verification purposes.

Pro tip #3: Unlike in Indonesia, where cash and e-wallets are predominantly used for transactions, purchases in the UK are commonly made by tapping your debit card on an EDC machine for in-person shopping, or by entering your debit card details into online stores like Amazon. Keep your card secure!

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