Nothing complicated about student checking accounts – they are accounts designed for those in higher education. You must be aged 17 to 24 and attend high school, college, or vocational school. You can deposit money into the account and use the account to pay bills and make purchases.
However, some significant differences exist between student and regular checking accounts. Student checking accounts often offer a larger interest-free overdraft and other perks designed to help students manage their money and save on typical spending patterns.
As the name suggests, student checking accounts typically offer check-writing facilities, but you can also receive a debit card associated with the account, so you can swipe for purchases with physical retailers and buy things online.
As with a standard account, you will still receive a monthly statement, and many banks offer online banking and apps, so you can have greater control over your money management.
Here are our recommended student checking accounts for 2024:
Chase College Checking℠ account
Chase College Checking Review
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Promotion
APY Checking
- Overview
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The Chase Bank College Checking account is available to those aged 17 to 24 and there is no monthly service fee until you graduate or up to five years after you open your account. You can also qualify for a welcome bonus if you make qualifying transactions and enroll for paperless statements.
With this account, you can access the large Chase branch network, with over 4,700 locations and an ATM network with 16,000 machines. This makes it a great option for those who want the flexibility to access their student account when on campus and back at home.
The Chase Bank College Checking account has no minimum deposit and there are no monthly fees while you’re enrolled in college, with a $6 fee per month after you graduate. However, there is a $34 overdraft fee, with a maximum charge of $102 per day.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Money Market Account
- Mortgage
- Government Mortgage
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Investing
U.S. Bank Student Checking Account
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APY Checking
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If you’re in the South, West or Midwest, the U.S Bank Student Checking account could be a good option for you. You can link your student ID with your checking account and then use your ID for PIN purchases and at ATMs. You can also access student financial education to help you to manage your money.
The account has no monthly maintenance fees and you can access more than 2,000 branches. If you don’t have a U.S Bank ATM on your campus, you will have your first four non network ATM transaction fees waived per statement period.
However, you will need to be prepared for some potential fees. The account has a $25 minimum deposit and if you’re more than $5.01 overdrawn, you’ll incur a $36 per item fee, up to $144 per day. But, you can opt for overdraft coverage, which will automatically decline overdrawn transactions and you’ll not incur a fee.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Money Market Account
- Mortgage
- Government Mortgage
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Personal Loans
- Investing
Chime Checking Account
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APY Checking
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The Chime Free Checking account offered from the original free mobile banking apps. Chime began its operations focusing on college students interested in a mobile approach with fees as low as possible.
If you’re happy with no physical locations and managing your account online via an app, Chime is a great option. The account has no minimum balance requirements or monthly fees. It is available nationwide and you can access an ATM network with more than 38,000 machines.
However, the real draw of this account is that it is interest-bearing. You can earn interest on your checking account balance, which is very unusual for fee-free checking accounts.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- Debit Card
- Credit Cards
Bank of America Advantage Banking
Fees
Minimum Deposit
Current Promotion
APY Checking
- Overview
- Banking Options
The Bank of America Advantage Banking account is a general checking account, but the monthly maintenance fees are waived for those who are under 25 and enrolled in high school, vocation programs or college.
You can also upgrade to Advantage SafeBalance or Advantage Plus. SafeBalance is a checkless account, and has a minimum deposit of $25, but it offers overdraft protection. The Advantage Plus account has a minimum deposit of $100.
One of the attractive features of the Advantage Banking account is that it rounds up debit card purchases, depositing the difference in your savings account. There are also customizable alerts, spending and budgeting tools.
Another perk of this account is that you can keep the account after you turn 25 or after graduation. After this point, there is a monthly maintenance fee, but this can be waived if you meet the qualification criteria.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Mortgage
- Government Mortgage
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Investing
Axos Essentials Checking
Axos Essentials Checking Review
Fees
Minimum Deposit
Current Promotion
APY Checking
- Why We Picked It?
- Banking Options
Axos may be a lesser known bank throughout the U.S, but it does offer a nationwide free checking account. The Axos Essentials Checking account has no real requirements to enjoy free checking and you won’t have to face any minimum balance requirements, monthly maintenance fees or overdraft fees.
While this isn’t a dedicated student checking account, it is a solid checking account option. You will need to be prepared for your account being 100% online, but Axos does provide unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursement.
Additionally, the Axos online banking platform is highly intuitive and easy to use. You can view statements, aggregate all your accounts into one place and even integrate third party tools such as Venmo or Mint. You can use the dashboard to set up and manage custom alerts and even earn cash for referring friends
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Money Market Account
- Mortgage
- Debit Card
- Investing
Current Banking
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Current Promotion
APY Checking
- Overview
- Banking Options
Current is another mobile banking platform, and it is designed to make banking simple and convenient. There is both a premium and free version of current, but you can enjoy a solid checking account option with the free version. This account has no minimum balance requirements, and you’ll pay no overdraft fees.
The real stand outs of this account are that you can access a fee free ATM network of more than 40,000 machines and you’ll earn points for cash back. You can also enjoy a high-interest rate on your savings balance if you add money to your savings pods and enable interest.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- Debit Card
Discover Cashback Debit Checking
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Current Promotion
Minimum deposit required: $15,000 or $25,000 within 30 days.
APY Checking
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The Discover Cashback Debit account is another option that is not exclusively for student checking accounts. It is available for those 18 or older who want the perks of a student account with no minimum deposit, monthly, or overdraft fees. However, the big draw for this account is that you can earn 1% cash back on your debit card purchases up to $360 cashback per year.
The other perks of this account include free online bill payments, checks, replacement debit cards, and ACH payments. In addition, although Discover has no physical branches, there is a nationwide ATM network of more than 60,000 machines; you can also use mobile check deposits or mail-in deposits.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Money Market Account
- Mortgage
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Personal/Student Loans
TD Convenience Checking
TD Convenience Checking Review
Fees
Minimum Deposit
Current Promotion
TD Bank offers a welcome bonus for new account – you can get $300 bonus if you open a new checking account, and another $200 if you open a savings account. There is a minimum deposit required of $500 or $2,500, depending on account, within 60 days.
. Expired on 10/31/2024APY Checking
- Overview
- Banking Options
TD is one of the most convenient banks, so the Convenience Checking account is a great student option. While not a dedicated student checking account, it does have all the features a student would need.
While there is a $15 monthly maintenance fee, this is waived if you’re aged 17 to 23 and you’ll not have any minimum balance requirements. This is a no frills checking account that is simple to use. You can access over 1,100 branches, primarily on the East Coast and 24/7 phone assistance.
TD Bank also has an excellent mobile banking app, where you can view your statements, deposit checks, find your nearest branch or ATM and perform other account transactions.
- Savings Accounts
- Checking Accounts
- CDs
- Money Market Account
- Mortgage
- Government Mortgage
- Credit Card
- Debit Card
- Personal Loans
- Investing
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Table Of Content
How to Find The Best Student Checking Account
While we’ve covered our picks for the best student checking accounts, if these don’t appeal to you, you’ll need to know how to choose a student checking account.
Choosing an account can feel a little overwhelming, particularly if you’ve never had a checking account before. However, there are some considerations to assess that will help you to find the right account for you.
- The Digital Experience
When you’re busy with classes, working a part time job and managing a hectic social life, you need to be able to maintain your bank account on the go.
Most banks have online banking and an app, but it should be easy to use with an intuitive layout.
- Solid Customer Service
Even if you’re confident with your banking habits, you may still have the occasional query or question.
So, it is important that your chosen bank offers solid customer service, whether online, by phone or in person at a branch. It is worth taking a little time to assess reviews from previous and current customers to see if there are any red flags.
- The Size and Availability of the ATM Network
Whether you’re on campus or back at your family home, you will need access to your cash. While you can use your debit card, sometimes you will need cash or perform a transaction and need to access a fee-free ATM.
- Account Fees
Many checking accounts come with fees, so it is important to check the fees on your potential student checking accounts. Look out for ATM fees, overdraft fees, monthly maintenance fees or any other charges you may incur with your day to day banking.
Be sure to read through the account fine print to ensure that you are familiar and comfortable with any fees or charges.
- Account Minimums
If an account has low balance requirements and low minimum deposits, it will be easier to open and maintain your account.
While some accounts do have a higher minimum deposit, this may come with additional account fees. So, you’ll need to assess which works best for you.
- Write Checks And Account Management
This may seem like a silly question about checking accounts, but since many of us complete our bank account transactions via an app or online, not all banks still offer check-writing capabilities.
If you need to write actual checks or want to have the option, you’ll need to see if the account offers this facility.
- After Graduation Options
Finally, you need to look at what happens to your account after you graduate. Some banks will close your account or will transition it to a standard checking account.
So, you need to look at whether you can build a long term relationship with your bank post graduation.
Essential Features of Student Checking Accounts
If you’re assessing student checking accounts, there are some essential features you should look out for. These include:
- A Generous Overdraft: According to CNBC, the average college student overdrafts at least twice a year. So, ideally, your student checking account will provide a generous overdraft facility with minimal fees. If you want to avoid overdrawn, you could look for an account that auto-transfers funds from a linked savings account or declines transactions that would take you overdrawn.
- Interest on Your Positive Balance: Whether you have a regular job or student loan funds hitting your bank account, there are likely to be occasions when you have a positive balance. However, you may not want to transfer these funds into your savings account, as you may need immediate access. So, if your checking account pays interest on your positive balances, it is the best of both worlds.
- Learning Tools: Many students feel a little overwhelmed managing their first checking account, so it is nice when the bank offers educational tools that can help you to learn more about budgeting, money management and other financial topics.
- Credit Management Tools: Another great resource for student checking accounts is facilities and tools to monitor your credit score. Students are at the very beginning of their credit journey, so it is important to be able to check how your activities and spending habits are impacting your credit.
- Linked Products: The final essential feature to look for with your new student checking account is linked products. Multiple banking products can provide a more rounded financial experience from savings accounts to credit cards. While it is always a good idea to shop around for the best banks, if your checking account bank offers linked products that are competitive, it is a real benefit.
Student Checking Accounts- What Are The Drawbacks?
As with any financial product, there are potential drawbacks that you need to consider before you open a student checking account.
- Not Typically Allowed More Than One: One of the terms and conditions of most student checking accounts is that you are not allowed to open more than one. So, if you like to have two or more accounts to manage your money, you won’t be able to have them all as student checking accounts.
- Limited Time Only: As the name suggests, student checking accounts are designed only for students. This means that once you reach the age of 25 or graduate, you’ll need to transition to another account. Many banks offer avenues, so you can graduate to a regular checking account, but this may not appeal to you.
- Overdraft Fees: While many banks do not charge monthly maintenance fees for student checking accounts, you need to watch out for the overdraft fees. If you slip into the red, you could get stung with a fee of up to $35 per item. This means that you could easily rack up $100 in fees or more in one day.
- Multiple Locations: Another potential drawback for student checking accounts is that you need to be able to fully use your account both on campus and when you’re back at home. You don’t want to have to operate two different accounts; one while you’re in school and another when you’re on break.
- Label Distractions: As we’ve touched on above, there are actually some regular checking accounts that are ideal for students, but many people get distracted by the label of “student checking accounts.” So, if you become too focused on only looking at student accounts, you could miss out.
How to Open a Student Checking Account Online?
Many banks now encourage potential customers to open an account online, which also applies to student checking accounts. The account opening process is similar to a regular bank account but requires more supporting documentation.
1. Gather Your Paperwork
The most efficient way to start the process of opening your new account online is to collect all of the necessary paperwork before you begin. While many banks will allow you to save your application form part-way through, some don’t. So, if you need some information or need to scan a document at any stage and don’t have it handy, you’ll need to start over.
Typically, you will need a Valid Student ID with a photo, school transcript, or college acceptance letter. You will also need your Social Security Number and a valid government-issued ID such as a driver’s license or passport. You may also need proof of your address.
2. Double Check the Product Info
Before you begin the application process, it is a good idea to double-check the product information on the bank’s website.
Read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you are comfortable with any fees or requirements.
3. Complete the Application Form
Once you are happy with the product, click on the “Apply” button, and you’ll be directed to an application form.
Fill in all the required fields, including your full name, address, email address, phone number, and Social Security Number.
4. Provide Your Supporting Documents
This step varies from bank to bank, but most will allow you to scan or photograph the required documentation.
This may be done as a final application form stage, or you may receive email instructions. Aim to provide your documentation as quickly as possible, or it will delay your application.
5. Approval
After you submit your application and supporting documents, the bank will assess your application. Depending on the specific bank procedures, you may receive a decision in minutes or need to wait a day or two.
Once you receive approval, you’ll have your bank account details, and you can set up your internet banking and account app.
Best Tips to Get Started With Your Student Bank Account
While student bank accounts are designed to be straightforward to use, there are some tips that can help you get started.
- Verify Welcome Bonus Requirements: The first tip only applies if the bank offers a welcome bonus, but it is a good idea to check the offer requirements. This may involve setting up internet banking, downloading an app and/or performing a specified number of transactions. You will need to meet these requirements within a designated period, so you need to be familiar with what you need to do.
- Set Up Internet Banking and the App: You’ll get the most from your student account if you can use internet banking and the mobile app on your device. So, don’t delay in setting these up.
- Share Your Bank Account Details: This is an important step, and many banks will offer guidance with setting up bill payments and moving your income sources across to your new account. You’ll need to share your new bank account number with your student loan company and any service providers you need to pay.
FAQs
Do Students need an authorized user?
No, student accounts are designed for those in full time education, so you shouldn’t need an authorized user to open and operate your account.
What are the requirements to open a Student checking account?
You’ll not only need the proof of ID and proof of address needed for a regular checking account, but also proof that you are studying. This could be your college acceptance letter, a student ID with a photo or your school transcript.
Do Student checking accounts offer promotions?
Some banks do offer promotions for opening a new student checking account, such as a cash bonus. You’ll need to check the requirements to qualify for any promotion to ensure that you can meet them comfortably.
Can I open a Student checking account with no initial deposit?
Yes, there are many student checking accounts that don’t require an initial deposit. However, there are others that do require you to deposit at least a specific amount to open your account. Check the terms and conditions of the account and you’ll find if there is an initial deposit required.
Does Student checking account earn interest?
This depends on the account. Some banks, such as Capital One or LendingClub, offer interest on positive balances, but most do not.
Does Citi have Student checking?
Citi does not have a specific student checking account, but there is a basic checking account option. However, unlike some banks, the monthly maintenance fee is not automatically waived for students.
You will need to make qualifying transactions or maintain a specific account balance to avoid paying the monthly fee.
Can I open a Student bank account online?
Yes, many banks allow you to open a student bank account online. In fact, there are a number of student bank accounts that are exclusively online. The opening procedure is similar to a regular checking account, but you will need to provide proof that you are a student.
After graduating, what happens to a student's bank account?
Student bank accounts are only available to those in education, so after you graduate, the bank may automatically transition your account to a regular checking account.
However, there are some instances where you’ll receive a notification of your account closure and you’ll need to make alternative arrangements.
Can a Student Checking Account Can Be Opened by Anyone?
Most student checking accounts are only available to those aged 17 or 18 up to the age of 25, depending on the bank. You’ll need to provide proof that you are a student, so those who are not in school will not be able to open the account.
Our Methodology For Choosing The Best Student Checking Accounts
The Smart Investor team conducted an in-depth analysis to find the best student checking accounts available. We considered various factors tailored to the needs of students, focusing on four main categories:
Fees and Terms (20%): We assessed the fees associated with student checking accounts, including monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees, and minimum balance requirements. Higher ratings were given to accounts with lower fees and more favorable terms designed specifically for students.
Account Features (40%): This category evaluated the features and benefits offered by each student checking account, such as ATM access, mobile banking capabilities, check deposit options (mobile or in-person), online bill pay services, and access to surcharge-free ATM networks. Student checking accounts offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the unique needs of students earned higher scores.
Student-Friendly Services And Customer Experience (30%): We closely examined additional services and benefits tailored to students, including special perks such as discounts on student loans, reimbursement for ATM fees, access to financial education resources, and student-specific account management tools. Higher ratings were awarded to accounts that provided valuable resources and support to help students manage their finances effectively.
Bank Reputation (10%): Our team analyzed each bank's reputation, considering factors such as customer satisfaction ratings, JD Power scores, TrustPilot reviews, and the bank's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. Student checking accounts offered by banks with positive reputations, strong customer service, and a commitment to student financial wellness received higher ratings.