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?

You can open a student or graduate current account if you’re:

• in secondary school
• in university
• recently graduated
• doing a post-graduate degree

The main types of student 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

Student account features and benefits

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

Benefits may include things like:

• 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.

What about student loans, overdrafts, and credit cards?

These are financial products designed for students, that come with special features.

Student benefits can include introductory offers, competitive interest rates and extended interest-free spending.

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.

Which bank is best for students?

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: to manage your money on the go, opt for a bank with better online services and app
• Credit and loans: to release 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