Banking
Plan how you will access and manage your money before you go abroad.
You may need to use your UK bank account, open a new bank account abroad, or use a mix of payment methods. Check your options before you travel so you can access money when you arrive.
Mobility grants and Study Abroad scholarships
The University will usually pay any mobility grant or Study Abroad scholarship money into your UK bank account.
Enter your bank details in before you go. Update your details if they change while you are abroad.
Speak to your bank before you travel
Tell your bank that you will be abroad and how long you expect to be away. Some banks may block card payments or cash withdrawals abroad if they do not know you are travelling.
Check your cards and charges
Before you leave the UK, check:
- Whether your debit card and credit card will work in your host country.
- How much your bank charges for card payments and cash withdrawals abroad.
- How much your bank charges to transfer money overseas.
Check emergency support
Before you leave the UK, check:
- How you can contact your bank in an emergency.
- How you can replace a lost or stolen card while abroad.
Check local banking options
Before you leave the UK, check:
- Whether your bank has a branch, partner bank or affiliated bank in your host country.
- Whether your bank recommends a safe way to transfer money to an overseas account.
Check access to your online banking
Make sure you can access your online or mobile banking while you are abroad.
Before you leave the UK, check that you can:
- log in to your account from your phone or laptop
- receive any security codes your bank sends by text, email or app
- use your banking app if you change your SIM card or phone number
- check payments from the University
- contact your bank securely if you need help
Avoid using public wifi for online banking. Use a trusted wifi connection or your mobile data where possible.
Check whether you need a bank account abroad
Banking services vary by country. Ask your host institution or students who have already studied in your host country about local banking options.
You may need a bank account abroad if you receive payments in the local currency or need to make regular local payments.
Some banks may not offer student accounts or overdraft facilities.
Prepare your documents
Check what documents you need to open a bank account abroad.
You may need more than one form of identification. You may also need proof of your student status, proof of address or a copy of your passport.
Prepare for your arrival
It may take several weeks to open a bank account abroad and receive your card.
Take enough money or another payment method to cover your first few weeks. This can help you avoid frequent withdrawals from your UK card, which may include extra charges.