*Information checked against provider websites and published guidance in September 2026. Banking products, eligibility criteria and fees can change. Always check directly with the provider before applying.

🪪 What You Need to Open a UK Bank Account: 

• ✅ Passport 
• ✅ eVisa share code (see below — you won't get a physical visa) 
• ✅ Proof of student status (ask your university for a letter confirming your enrolment and address) 
• ✅ Proof of UK address (this can be temporary — see below!) 
• ✅ UK phone number (often needed for online banking and verification) 

➡️ Important: Most international students will use an eVisa (not a physical document) to prove their immigration status. You may need to generate a share code to provide evidence of your right to study or live in the UK. Check your individual visa documentation and Home Office guidance. 

To do this: 

• Go to the UK government website: View and Prove Your Immigration Status 
• Select ‘something else’ when prompted to generate a code for banks or universities 
• If you haven’t used this before, you may need to create an account first: Get Access to Your eVisa 

📱 Step 1: Get a UK SIM Card or Phone Number 

A UK mobile number makes things easier — especially for: 

• Bank account verification 
• Accommodation and job applications 
• Getting set up with your student records app 

How to get one quickly: 

• You can get a free e-SIM or physical SIM from The SU (or The University of Exeter) - just visit the SU and ask! 
• Or buy a pay-as-you-go SIM from supermarkets or phone shops (Tesco Mobile, EE, Vodafone, Three, giffgaff) 
   
• ✅ No credit check or address needed 
• ✅ Just insert into your phone and top up as needed 
• ✅ Or choose a SIM-only monthly contract (some offer student deals) 

➡️ Tip: Set up your UK number before applying for your bank account. 

🚨 What If You Arrive Without Cash, SIM or UK Bank Account? 

Many international students arrive with: 

• No UK phone number 
• No UK bank account 
• Only cash — IMPORTANT: Our campus is CASHLESS – you won’t be able to use cash in most places. 

⚠️ You may not be able to buy food, transport, or SIM cards using cash on campus. 

Workarounds: 

• Use campus Wi-Fi to contact the SU or university international team 
• Some app-based banks (like Revolut or Wise) can be used before arrival if you top up from your home account — ideal for spending without cash 
• The SU have free SIMs or can direct you to help 
• You can also ask staff about emergency vouchers if you're stuck 

✅ If possible, set up Revolut, Wise, or Monzo before travelling, and preload them with funds from your home bank. 

🏫 Step 2: Use Your University Address 

If you don’t have housing yet, you can: 

• Ask your university for a bank letter confirming your enrolment and UK address. Different banks have different proof-of-address requirements, so check what documents your chosen bank accepts before attending an appointment.
• Use your temporary university accommodation address until you secure permanent housing 

➡️ Student Records (Falmouth University) or the University of Exeter International Team can help update your address letter. 

🏦 Step 3: Open a Student‑Friendly Bank Account 

Some UK bank accounts may be particularly useful for international students, depending on your circumstances. The information below is based on Save the Student's Top UK Bank Accounts for International Students 2026 guide. 

⚠️ Important: We are sharing it for general information only and do not endorse any particular provider. Always check the latest account features, fees and eligibility criteria directly with the bank before applying.

✅ Bring your passport, eVisa share code, university letter, and UK phone number to your appointment. 

📲 Step 4: Consider an App-Based Bank (Optional Quick Start)

Digital banks can often be opened quickly through a mobile app and may require less paperwork than some traditional banks. They can be a useful option when you first arrive in the UK.

⚠️ Before choosing any digital bank as your main account, check that it meets your needs for receiving wages, student finance, international transfers and cash deposits. Features and eligibility can vary between providers.

Digital banks can be a convenient way to get started, but it's worth comparing them with traditional UK banks before deciding which account to use long term. Check the latest eligibility requirements, international transfer fees and account features directly with the provider before applying. Further reading - Save the Student Banking Survey Results 2026

🏘️ Step 5: Renting Without a UK Account? 

Many landlords or student housing providers may accept:

• International bank transfers (such as Wise or Revolut)
• Card payments
• Payment once a UK bank account has been opened

Always check payment arrangements with the landlord or accommodation provider in advance.

✅ Quick Checklist 

☐ Get a UK phone number (SIM card or pay-as-you-go) 
☐ Request your student status and bank letter from your university
☐ Use your campus or accommodation address 
☐ Generate a visa share code via the UK government website 
☐ Apply for a bank account (high-street or app-based) 
☐ Top up Revolut/Wise with money from home before arrival if you can 
☐ Avoid bringing only cash — we are a cashless campus 

💬 Need Help? 

Contact: 

• International Student Support link (University of Exeter)  
• Students’ Union Advice Team – advice@thesu.org.uk 
• Accommodation Office – accommodation@fxplus.ac.uk 
• Student Records (Falmouth University)– student.records@falmouth.ac.uk 

We’re here to help you settle in smoothly.