Ireland’s best student and graduate bank accounts

What is a student bank account?

It’s a current account designed for second or third-level students.

Student and graduate current accounts are designed with students in mind. Many offer no monthly maintenance fees, flexible overdraft terms, and introductory offers.

Who can open one?

If you’re in secondary school, university, recently graduated or pursuing a post-graduate degree, you can open a student or graduate current account.

The main types of accounts are:

• Second-level student account: for students in secondary school, usually between 12-18 years of age.
• Third-level student account: third level student account: for students in third-level education, in an undergraduate or post-graduate degree.
• Graduate account: for students who have graduated from third level. Use this account up to two or three years after graduation.

Is it worth opening a student bank account?

Many bank accounts aimed at students come with introductory offers and perks, like free fees.

Depending on the lender and the type of account, benefits can include:

• No monthly/quarterly maintenance fees
• No direct debit or debit card charges
• No ATM withdrawal fees*
• Interest-free overdrafts, up to a certain amount
• Option to apply for a student credit card, loan, or overdraft
• Advice from student officers

*Even if ATM withdrawals are free with your account, Government Stamp Duty is charged at a rate of €0.12 per ATM transaction.

Student loans, overdrafts, and credit cards

Whether you need cash for a new laptop, flights, college fees, or just extra for monthly expenses, a student credit card, loan, or overdraft could help.

Benefits for students can include:

• Introductory offers
• Competitive interest rates
• Interest-free spending for a period

Which bank is best?

Each lender offers slightly different services, features, and benefits, so consider each account carefully to ensure it suits your needs.

Consider features like:

• In-app banking: if you like to manage your money on the go, opt for a bank with better online services and app.
• Credit and loans: if you need extra cash for books or travel, consider a lender offering interest-free overdrafts, loans, or credit cards.
• Branch access: if you prefer more traditional face-to-face banking, look out for a more widespread branch network.
• Mobile pay: while most banks include Google or Apple Pay, others offer additional options via Fitbit or Garmin.

Though student accounts include free fees and low-interest credit, it’s worth checking the fees and rates on the bank’s standard, personal current accounts, too.

How to open a student account

You can open a student bank account online, on your banking app, or at a local branch.

To open an account, you’ll need:

1. Proof of ID, like a passport or driving licence
2. Proof of address, like a utility bill.
3. Proof you’re attending third-level education