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• Best Student Checking Accounts

Best Student Checking Accounts Of August 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Jul 17, 2024, 7:38pm

Having a student checking account can help you establish financial independence and build your money management skills while in college. The best of these accounts offer features beneficial to the typical money-strapped and on-the-move college student: low fees and minimums and easy access to cash. Some accounts even pay a little interest.

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• 29 student checking accounts ranked
• 24 financial institutions considered
• 17 data points analyzed and scored
• Featured partner offer

Best Student Checking Accounts of August 2024

Summary of best student checking accounts 2024, methodology, complete guide to student checking accounts, what is a student checking account, pros and cons of student checking accounts, tips to find the best bank account for college students, how to choose a student checking account, how to open a student checking account, how to get a student checking account bonus, student checking account vs. regular checking account, recap: best student checking accounts of 2024, frequently asked questions (faqs), next up in checking.

• Best Checking Accounts
• Best Business Checking Accounts
• Best Teen Checking Accounts
• Best High-Yield Checking Accounts
• Best Joint Checking Accounts

Discover ® Cashback Debit Checking

Annual Percentage Yield

Earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month. See website for details.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

We’ve compared 29 checking accounts at 24 nationally available banks and credit unions to find some of the best accounts available for students. See below to learn more about why we picked each account, its pros and cons, and to access individual bank reviews. Not all 10 accounts shown on this list are student-specific, yet all of them offer features and fee structures that can benefit students.

Annual percentage yields (APYs) and account details are accurate as of July 11, 2024.

Best for ATM Access

Axos bank rewards checking.

Up to 3.30%

on balances up to $50,000

We picked the Axos Bank Rewards Checking account because it gives customers access to 91,000 ATMs throughout the country, with the added bonus of unlimited fee reimbursements for out-of-network ATM use in the U.S.

Why We Like It

We like this account because it boasts few fees and low minimums. It requires a minimum deposit of just $0 and has no overdraft or non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees. The account even pays interest.

What We Don’t Like

We don’t like that this account requires students to meet high direct deposit minimums to earn any interest. Many will have trouble satisfying the numerous eligibility requirements to qualify for the highest advertised APY (see Details).

Who It’s Best For

This account is best for students who need frequent and easy access to cash. It’s ideal for existing Axos customers and those interested in opening more accounts with the bank.

Competitive tiered interest rate structure

• No monthly, overdraft or NSF fees

Unlimited domestic ATM reimbursements

• No interest on balances over $50,000
• Stringent monthly requirements to earn higher interest
• No physical branches
• No live chat

The Axos Rewards Checking account has interest tiers that allow an account holder to earn up to 3.30% APY total. Balances above $50,000 do not earn interest. These are the steps required to build the highest APY:

• 0.40% APY: Receive monthly direct deposits totaling $1,500 or more. This must be met to be eligible to earn any interest during the statement cycle.
• 0.30% APY: Sign up for personal finance manager (PFM) “account aggregation” (an online banking tool to track all of your accounts in one spot), or use your Axos debit card for a total of 10 transactions per month (minimum $3 per transaction).
• 1.00% APY: Maintain an average daily balance of $2,500 per month in an Axos Invest Managed Portfolios Account.
• 1.00% APY: Maintain an average daily balance of $2,500 per month in an Axos Invest Self Directed Trading Account.
• 0.60% APY: Use your Rewards Checking account to make your full monthly Axos consumer loan payment, which might include a mortgage, personal and auto loans.

Axos offers 24/7 customer service via phone and secure online messaging. The site also has a live chat feature available during regular business hours.

Its mobile banking app, available on the App Store and on Google Play, is highly rated and an excellent tool for the fast-paced lifestyle of a student.

Best for Mobile Banking

Discover® cashback debit checking.

We chose the Discover Bank Cashback Debit Checking account because it rewards students with cash back when they spend. The account offers 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month. See website for details.

We like that Discover has a well-rated mobile app for iOS and Android, and it keeps fees to a minimum. You won’t pay a monthly maintenance fee, NSF or overdraft fee or a fee for using an out-of-network ATM with Cashback Debit Checking. You’ll also get official bank checks at no charge.

We don’t like that this account caps the amount you can earn in cash back. However, this may not concern many students because the cap is relatively high.

This account is best for students who want a fee-free cash-back checking account. If you plan to use your debit card a lot, consider this pick.

• Earn cash-back rewards for debit card purchases. See website for details.
• No monthly maintenance, non-sufficient funds or ATM fees
• No minimum deposit requirement to open
• Does not earn interest
• $3,000 threshold on cash-back qualifying purchases per month. See website for details.

Discover offers optional overdraft protection by linking a second Discover account to your checking account to fund any overdrafts, other than those caused by an ATM withdrawal or POS debit transaction. Those will simply be declined if there are insufficient funds. Without this protection, or if you have insufficient funds in your secondary account, the bank will simply decline or return transactions that overdraw your account.

Discover does not charge an out-of-network ATM fee, but you may be subject to a third-party fee, which will not be reimbursed.

Discover maintains a large ATM network, with more than 60,000 surcharge-free ATMs throughout the nation.

Best for High School Students

Capital one money teen checking.

with a parent or legal guardian

We chose the Capital One MONEY Teen Checking account because it offers perks for high school students under the age of 18. It has no minimum deposit requirement, few fees and an extensive ATM network. At 18, you can switch to a regular Capital One 360 checking account.

We like this account because you can divide your balance between using and saving with Spendable and Set Aside categories and savings goals. Teens can access their accounts using Capital One’s highly-rated mobile app or website. MONEY Teen Checking also earns 0.10% APY, which is better than nothing.

We don’t like that this account is not available to college students. If you’re already in college, consider one of the other options on this list.

This account is best for high school students who want their own interest-bearing checking accounts, especially those with savings goals.

• Separate mobile app logins for teens and parents
• Parental monitoring, allowance, some spending controls and activity alerts
• No monthly fee or minimum balance requirement
• Limits on specific spending categories
• Earns 0.10% APY
• 70,000+ free ATMs
• No out-of-network ATM fee reimbursement
• No 24/7 customer support
• No live chat feature

Children ages eight and older can open a joint MONEY Checking account with a parent or legal guardian. Once they turn 18, they can continue to use their MONEY account or open a Capital One 360 Checking account and transfer the balance to the new account.

Capital One has 24/7 customer service available, along with excellent digital tools for managing your money to achieve your financial goals.

The account’s debit card can be used at more than 70,000 Capital One, MoneyPass and Allpoint ATMs. Capital One also maintains a limited number of branches and Capital One Cafés for those interested in visiting a physical location.

Have you considered Axos Bank Rewards Checking?

The Rewards Checking account offers five rewards tiers that allow account holders to earn up to 3.30% APY total.

No monthly, overdraft or non-sufficient fund fees

Best for Budgeting and Saving

Ally bank spending account.

Annual Percentage Yield 0.10% annual percentage yield (APY) on checking accounts with less than a $15,000 minimum daily balance, and 0.25% APY for accounts with minimum daily balances of $15,000 or more

Up to 0.25%

0.10% annual percentage yield (APY) on checking accounts with less than a $15,000 minimum daily balance, and 0.25% APY for accounts with minimum daily balances of $15,000 or more

We picked the Ally Bank Spending Account because it makes budgeting and saving easy. To avoid overspending, you can use Spending Buckets to categorize your money and set funds aside for different purposes.

We like that the Ally Bank Spending Account has few fees—including no monthly maintenance fee, overdraft fee, transfer fee or fee for most wire transfers—and it pays 0.10% annual percentage yield (APY) on checking accounts with less than a $15,000 minimum daily balance, and 0.25% APY for accounts with minimum daily balances of $15,000 or more APY on any balance.

We don’t like that you can’t deposit cash with Ally, even at in-network ATMs, which is something you can do with many online-only banks.

This account is best for students who want to keep their spending in check with budgeting tools. Pairing this checking account with an Ally Savings Account is also a good choice for young adults looking to save more.

• High customer service satisfaction
• Customer service is widely available
• Low fees and minimums
• Out-of-network ATM fee reimbursement up to $10 per statement cycle
• Lower app rating on Google Play

A child can use the account’s debit card at more than 55,000 ATMs, and Ally reimburses up to $10 per statement cycle for fees charged at out-of-network ATMs.

You can deposit checks and manage other daily tasks with Ally Bank’s highly rated mobile app.

Best for Fee-Free Overdrafts

Chime® checking account.

We chose the Chime Checking Account because it offers fee-free overdrafts with a generous limit. Chime’s SpotMe® ¹ feature is a free service that allows you to overdraft your account up to $200 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals with qualifying direct deposit activity.

We like this account because it keeps fees to a minimum and includes access to early direct deposits ² . Qualifying for early pay and SpotMe is as easy as having your paycheck sent to this account.

Chime doesn’t offer interest or cash-back rewards on its Checking Account like many other options on this list.

Chime’s Checking Account is best for students who overdraft often and may need the extra help afforded by early paychecks. It is ideal for individuals with direct deposit activity.

• Highly rated mobile app
• Tools to automate savings goals
• Receive direct deposits up to two days early ²
• SpotMe® feature allows for up to $200 in fee-free overdrafts ¹
• Customer service is available 24/7
• Account doesn’t pay interest

Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC.

Customer service is available seven days a week by email or phone.

You can receive direct deposits up to two days early ² , and this account works with Google Pay and Apple Pay.

Chime customers get access to more than 60,000 surcharge-free ATMs ³ . It charges $2.50 per transaction at out-of-network ATMs. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven location, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

Best Credit Union Checking Account

Alliant credit union high-rate checking.

We picked the Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking account as the best credit union checking account because it offers better rates and lower fees than many banks, plus a number of everyday perks. Anyone can open an account, and the credit union’s product suite includes everything from bank accounts to investment accounts and credit cards.

We like this account because it has user-friendly digital banking tools and pays 0.25% APY. It also gives students easy access to cash with a network of more than 80,000 surcharge-free ATMs, and Alliant rebates up to $20 per month in third-party ATM fees.

We don’t like that you must receive at least one monthly electronic deposit to earn the advertised APY, which can be harder for students working odd jobs.

This account is best for those who want to join a credit union and will be able to qualify to earn interest. It’s an especially good choice for students who use ATMs regularly.

• Highly rated online banking and mobile app
• Access to more than 80,000 surcharge-free ATMs
• No monthly maintenance or minimum balance requirement
• Free overdraft protection
• Contactless Visa debit card and complimentary box of checks
• Requires membership in the credit union
• There are checking accounts with higher yields

Anyone can join Alliant through its partner charity, Foster Care to Success (FC2S). A $5 donation is required to become a member, but the fee is credited back to your account once it’s set up. The yields earned on credit union accounts are referred to as dividends rather than interest. Dividends are compounded monthly and credited monthly. To earn the APY, you must opt in to receive eStatements and have at least one monthly electronic deposit to your account.

The credit union offers a top-rated website and mobile app. Available for iOS and Android, the app lets you deposit checks, use budgeting tools and manage daily financial transactions.

Best for Second-Chance Checking

Wells fargo clear access banking℠.

(if under 16, must have adult co-owner)

We picked the Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking account because it’s available to those who cannot open standard checking accounts due to their banking histories. This type of account is often referred to as second-chance checking. After a year, it can be converted into a standard Wells Fargo checking account.

We like this account because it’s fairly easy to open—the minimum deposit requirement is a low $25—and the monthly fee is waived for customers under 24. You only need to be 13 to qualify for an account.

We don’t like that Wells Fargo’s ATM network is significantly smaller than those of other banks on our list, with just 11,000 surcharge-free ATMs. We also don’t like that you must visit a branch to open an account if you’re under 17 years old.

This account is best for students who need a second-chance banking opportunity or young teens who want a simple starter checking account.

• Branch locations across the country
• Low minimum deposit requirement
• Smaller ATM network than other banks and credit unions on this list
• $5 monthly maintenance fee for those 25 years of age or older

The Wells Fargo app earns high ratings, on the App Store and on Google Play. Wells Fargo has branches in most states, but the Clear Access Banking account is available for students nationwide.

This account also comes with digital tools for budgeting, managing cash flow and spending—all beneficial perks for students.

To open this account online, a person must be 18 or older. Younger applicants must visit a branch to open an account.

Best for Cash-Back Rewards

Lendingclub bank rewards checking.

Up to 0.15%

0.10% APY on balances of $2,500 to $99,999.99 and 0.15% APY on balances of $100,000 or more

We chose LendingClub Bank ’s Rewards Checking account because it lets you earn unlimited 1% cash back on qualified purchases made with your debit card. And in addition to cash back, it earns interest.

We like this account because it offers unlimited rebates for ATM fees charged by other banks worldwide. It also pays 0.10% APY on balances of $2,500 to $99,999.99 and 0.15% APY on balances of $100,000 or more.

We don’t like that you have to jump through hoops to be eligible for cash back and that your card must be run as “credit” when making purchases in-store (see Details).

This account is best for students who can qualify for the cash-back rewards and plan to use their debit cards frequently.

• Unlimited ATM fee rebates worldwide
• No monthly maintenance fee
• Unlimited cash back for qualified purchases
• Broadly available customer service hours
• No branches available
• Interest earned is minimal

Most online and signature-based transactions are eligible for cash back, but for in-store purchases, merchants must run your card as “credit” instead of “debit.” You must also meet the following requirements to earn cash back:

• Have your Rewards Checking account open for at least 30 days
• Receive at least $2,500 in monthly direct deposits OR maintain a minimum $2,500 account balance

How much interest you earn depends on your Rewards Checking balance. Earn 0.10% APY on balances of $2,500 to $99,999.99 and 0.15% APY on balances of $100,000 or more.

Working students can also get their paychecks early—direct deposit paychecks arrive up to two days early. Customer service is available by chat, phone or email.

Best for Free Banking

Bank of america advantage safebalance banking®.

24 and under

We picked the Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking account because it’s free for students. The account has a monthly maintenance fee of $4.95, but this is waived for students under 25 who are enrolled in high school, college, university or vocational school.

We like this account because it’s a stripped-down bank account with transparent fees. To help users spend within their means, it doesn’t include overdraft services or checks.

We dislike that this account doesn’t earn interest or rewards and doesn’t offer banking perks like ATM fee rebates or early direct deposit.

This account is best for students seeking a simple, free checking account that will prevent them from spending more than they have.

• Waived monthly maintenance fee for active students
• Free debit card
• No paper checks
• Pays no interest
• Smaller ATM network than some other banks and credit unions on this list

There is a $4.95 monthly maintenance fee that is waived for account holders under the age of 18, students under the age of 25 and members of BofA’s Preferred Rewards program.

Bank of America maintains approximately 15,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. To manage your account, you can visit a branch, log into your online account or use the bank’s highly rated mobile app.

Best for College Students

Chase college checking℠.

We chose the Chase Bank College Checking account as the best bank account for college students because it charges no monthly service fee for up to five years while you’re in college. Students ages 18 to 24 can open an account online or at a branch.

We like this account because college students can manage money, view accounts, pay bills and transfer or request money with Chase’s highly-rated mobile app. Chase also offers ample branch access in 48 states.

We don’t like that this account doesn’t allow those under 17 to join and that students who are 17 must open an account at a Chase branch.

This account is best for new college students who want minimal fees and the opportunity to bank in person. Chase High School Checking is a better choice for those under the age minimum.

• Monthly service fee is waived for five years while in college for students 17-24 years old
• Surcharge-free ATM network and branch access
• Fees for statement copies, cashier’s check and card replacement

Past five years, the service fee is $6 per month, but you can get that fee waived by meeting certain monthly requirements—making one electronic deposit per statement cycle or by maintaining an average balance of $5,000 or more.

Chase offers more than 15,000 surcharge-free ATMs and more than 4,700 branches.

To create this list, Forbes Advisor analyzed 29 accounts at 24 financial institutions, including a mix of online banks, brick-and-mortar banks and credit unions, focusing on college-aged students. We ranked each account on data points within the categories of product offerings, fees, APY, minimum requirements, customer experience, digital banking experience, ATM network and availability.

Here’s the weighting assigned to each category:

• Monthly fee: 20%
• ATM network: 15%
• ATM fees: 10%
• Customer experience: 10%
• Digital experience: 10%
• Minimum deposit to open: 10%
• Ongoing balance requirement: 10%
• Non-sufficient funds fee: 5%
• Overdraft fee: 5%
• Availability: 5%

Student checking account options offering low fees moved to the top of our list, as did accounts with broad ATM networks and strong customer and digital experience scores. While not all 10 accounts are student-specific, they offer features and fee structures that can benefit students.

To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on How Forbes Advisor Reviews Banks .

As a student, you’re not just learning in the classroom—you’re also learning life skills outside of school, like how to manage your money. Student checking accounts offer a low-cost way to start your financial life on the right foot. Here’s what to look for in a student checking account.

• What Is a Student Checking Account?

A student checking account is exactly what it sounds like a checking account designed for students. Each bank has its own age restrictions, so “student” could include middle schoolers, high schoolers and college students, including those attending vocational school.

Unlike other youth accounts a parent or adult might open for a minor—with the adult often serving as a joint account holder—a student checking account offers a step toward independence, which means more flexibility and privacy for the young person.

Some of the best student checking accounts have these benefits:

• A sign-up bonus for new members
• Low- or no minimum deposit requirement to open the account
• No maintenance fees
• Waived ATM fees for any transactions outside the bank’s network
• Free fraud protection
• Ability to link to external accounts
• Online and mobile banking features, including peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers

When To Open a Student Checking Account

The best time to open a student checking account is when you’re the right age to qualify and enrolled in school. Different accounts have different age limits to consider. Chase College Checking, for example, is available to applicants ages 17 to 24, while Axos Bank Rewards Checking requires applicants to be at least 18—but there’s no upper age limit.

What Do You Need To Open a Student Checking Account?

To open a student checking account, you’ll need to meet some basic criteria. First, you must be a student and hold a current and valid school identification card. You also need to be within a certain age range—be sure to check the financial institution’s requirements. Finally, you may be required to deposit funds into the account to open it, though this varies among institutions.

Even if you have an existing checking account, you may want to open a student checking account to take advantage of these benefits:

• Many student checking accounts offer budgeting tools similar to the best budgeting apps and student-friendly features that can help you learn good money management habits.
• Student checking accounts tend to have lower fees and minimum deposit requirements.
• You can take advantage of student checking account sign-up bonuses.
• Some student checking accounts offer convenient features like ATM reimbursements and user-friendly mobile banking platforms.
• You can choose a student account with a bank that’s easily accessible on campus.

Despite the many benefits to opening a student checking account, there are a few downsides.

• Depending on the account and your age, you may be required to apply with a co-signer, who will have access to your funds.
• Student checking accounts are less ubiquitous than standard checking accounts, so your choice of institution could be more limited.
• You could age out of eligibility and have to change accounts or even banks.

Above, we’ve listed our top picks for student checking accounts. But the best bank account for you depends on your needs. Below are some tips for finding an account.

• Define your biggest priorities. What’s most important to you when it comes to a checking account? A sign-up bonus is great, but think about the features you’ll want to use regularly—like ATM reimbursements, check-writing privileges or peer-to-peer transfers. Make sure you choose an account that checks all these boxes.
• Consider accessibility on your college campus and beyond. If you prefer banking in-person, choose a bank or credit union with a branch on campus. Otherwise, an online account may suffice. If you know you’ll need cash often, choose an account that reimburses ATM fees or has a large ATM network in your area. And if you plan to travel or study abroad as a student, consider foreign transaction fees and international ATM fees.
• Find out what happens to your account when you graduate. Depending on the student checking account you open, your account may transition to a regular checking account when you graduate. If you’ll end up with a standard checking account upon graduation, make sure it’s an account you’ll want to use.

Choosing a student checking account may seem a little overwhelming, especially if this is your first checking account. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re shopping:

• ATM network. If easy access to cash is important to you, look for a bank or credit union with ATMs conveniently located near you or that reimburses for out-of-network ATM fees.
• Fees. Overdraft fees, ATM fees, monthly maintenance fees and other account fees can put a dent in your account balance. It pays to read the fine print before opening an account. Generally, the fewer fees an account has, the easier and less expensive it will be to maintain.
• Minimums. Low minimum deposit and balance requirements make it easier to open and maintain an account. Look for accounts with minimums you think are reasonable to meet.
• Digital experience. For students on the go, a bank or credit union’s mobile app and website can make or break their banking experience. Check an institution’s mobile app ratings on the App Store and Google Play before signing up for a checking account. And make sure the institution’s website has what you need.
• Customer service. Being able to get in touch with a customer representative when needed is important, whether you bank online or at a branch. Scan Trustpilot and Better Business Bureau ratings before opening an account to see what current customers like and dislike.
• Paper check-writing capability. Because so many bank account transactions are done online or via mobile , not all checking accounts offer the ability to write a paper check. If you will occasionally, or frequently, need or want to write actual checks, consider whether the account offers them.

Keep in mind that your account may be closed or transitioned to a standard checking account once you’re no longer a student. Consider banks and credit unions closely to see if you can picture a long-term relationship with them post-graduation.

Lastly, but most importantly, be sure to consider your needs as a banking customer. While your needs may be simple as a college student, consider what you need from a bank account before selecting one. For example, if you visit ATMs frequently, consider any ATM fees that may apply.

Opening a student checking account is a relatively simple process. In some cases you can open an account online, but many banks require you to visit a brick-and-mortar branch.

• Decide which financial institution works best for you and your needs.
• Apply online or make an appointment with a banker. Making an appointment can help you avoid waiting in line and allow you to better establish a relationship with your banker.
• Bring your identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and be sure to have your current student ID.
• Bring the minimum amount of cash (or a check written to you) if your bank has a minimum deposit requirement.
• Read and sign any paperwork or agreements issued by the institution. Pay special attention to the fine print.

Picking a student checking account with an introductory bank account bonus can be a great way to put a little extra cash in your pocket. These kinds of bonuses are typically available to new customers who meet specific qualifications, which could include making a certain number of purchases, setting up a direct deposit or depositing a certain amount of funds within a specified period of time.

Follow these steps to earn a student checking account bonus:

• Research bonuses and carefully read qualification requirements. Introductory bonuses could be available for a limited time, so check out all banks and credit unions with current offers when you are ready to open your account. You’ll also want to read the fine print to ensure you can qualify for the bonus.
• Open your account within the offer date. The next step is to open an eligible account during the offer period, which could require you to visit a branch or fill out an online application. Some bonuses may require you to apply using a promo code or through a specific link. You should also double-check the steps you’ll need to take to earn the bonus at this point.
• See if you need to enroll. Some intro offers are automatically applied to your account, while others require you to enroll in the offer or in certain features, such as electronic statements. Before making your qualifying purchases, make sure you are enrolled if necessary.
• Make qualifying transactions or deposits. Depending on the particular offer, you’ll need to make a certain number of account transactions, deposit a minimum amount of money or set up a direct deposit to the account. Pay close attention to any timeline associated with this requirement as well. Set a calendar alert for yourself if you need to.

Find The Best Checking Accounts Of 2024

• Axos Bank Rewards Checking : Best for ATM Access
• Discover® Bank Cashback Debit Checking : Best for Mobile Banking
• Capital One MONEY Teen Checking: Best for High School Students
• Ally Bank Spending Account: Best for Budgeting and Saving
• Chime Checking Account : Best for Fee-Free Overdrafts
• Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking: Best Credit Union Checking Account
• Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking: Best for Second-Chance Checking
• LendingClub Bank Rewards Checking: Best for Cash-Back Rewards
• Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking: Best for Free Banking
• Chase College Checking : Best for College Students

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. 1 Chime SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your physical Chime Visa® Debit Card or secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card. 2 Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date. 3 Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven location, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions.  SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions .

Once the retailer accepts your cash, the funds will be transferred to your selected Chime Account. Barcode and debit card cash deposits land in the Checking Account. Credit Builder card cash deposits first go through your Card Account and then land in your Secured Account. Cash deposit fees may apply if using a retailer other than Walgreens and Duane Reade.

What is the best bank for college students?

Some of the best banks for college students include online banks like Axos, Discover, Chime and LendingClub as well as credit unions like Alliant Credit Union and national banks like Wells Fargo. We’ve narrowed down our top choices for student checking accounts, but the best bank is the one that offers the features you need and want.

How do I change my student bank account to a standard account? 

Once you’re no longer a student, your account will likely transition into a standard checking account . Each bank has different terms regarding student checking accounts and the qualifications for converting one into a standard account.

How many student checking accounts can I have?

There isn’t a limit to the number of student checking accounts you can have. But each student checking account has its own limitations and restrictions. If you want to open multiple student checking accounts, you have to meet each account’s criteria. Keep in mind having multiple accounts might make money management more difficult and could result in more fees.

Are there any downsides to opening a student checking account?

Generally, there aren’t many downsides to opening a student checking account. But certain limitations, restrictions or terms may not be the best fit for your specific situation. Choosing an account that isn’t fit for your needs could result in paying unnecessary fees or losing out on interest earnings.

Can minors open student checking accounts?

Each student checking account has its own age limitations. Some accounts are limited to those 18 and older, but some student checking accounts are available to minors. However, most banks require minors to open an account with an adult cosigner.

What is the minimum deposit to open a student checking account?

It depends on the institution. While some banks require a minimum deposit to open an account, others do not. A deposit between $25 and $100 is standard.

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The Best Bank for Recent College Grads

As a recent graduate, you’ve got enough on your plate with moving expenses, apartment deposits, setting up utilities, finding a job, and starting to pay off your student loans. The last thing you need is a hassle from your bank. This list is made up of the top money-saving banks and credit unions that can help you stretch your budget. Bank accounts for college students often terminate benefits when you graduate, so it’s a good time to shop the best bank account features to save you time and money. These free checking and savings accounts offer some helpful perks, like discounts for setting up auto-debit, electronic payment for your student loan payments, and speedy payment features like direct deposit. 

In addition to saving you money, these top ranked banks and credit unions can save new graduates time and stress. Some of the banks are brick and mortar, but many are online banks, which means you can do your banking 24/7, from anywhere in the world. Photo check deposit and free check image storage will keep you from drowning in paper, and will also save you a trip to the bank. Set up electronic bill pay for free, and eliminate one more hassle. The best banks for recent college grads are geared toward an online lifestyle, and help you manage your finances on your own terms. With linked free checking and savings accounts, you can skip overdraft fees in case you ever make a mistake. More importantly, these top banks help you keep track of everything, so mistakes don’t happen.   

Capital One

East West Bank

Navy Federal Credit Union

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Graduate Bank Account

Smarter banking for your life after uni.

Our Graduate Account is designed to help you make the transition from study to a career. Bank whenever and wherever you want, and use our tools to help you stay on top of your finances. With no monthly account fee.

To apply, you'll need to be 18+ and have graduated in the past 2 years

Here's what you get with your Graduate Bank Account

An interest-free arranged overdraft

You could get an interest-free limit of up to £3,000 in the first year, reducing to £2,000 in year 2 (subject to status). Learn more .

Convenient ways to bank

Online, with our app, by phone or in-branch. Bank the way you want, when you want. 1

Mobile payments

Pay for your purchases with your phone using Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay. 2

Representative example

Year 1:  0% EAR 3  on the first £3,000,  39.9% EAR (variable)  above that, giving a representative rate of  0% APR (variable) 4 . Year 2:  0% EAR  on the first £2,000,  39.9% EAR (variable)  above that, giving a representative rate of  0% APR (variable) . Based on an arranged overdraft of  £1,200 .

How does our overdraft compare? The representative APR shows the cost of borrowing over a year, so you can use it to compare the cost of our overdraft against other overdrafts and ways of borrowing.

Make banking easy with our app

Get just about everything you want from a bank... on your phone. Check your balance, make payments, chat to us if you need help – and much more. All it takes is a few taps.

Be in the know and in control

Keep track of your incomings and outgoings with instant notifications. 3  See how much you'll have left after bills and other regular payments using Balance After Bills. And if you lose track of your card, you can temporarily freeze it in seconds.

See your spending broken down into categories and set targets to help control it with Spending insights and Monthly budgets.

Get a little more from your money

• Get discounts with our home&Away offers programme
• Enjoy access to our full range of savings accounts (including some only available to HSBC current account customers)

Things to know before you apply

Ready to apply? Before you do, there are a couple of things you should check you're happy with.

About your optional arranged overdraft

When you apply for this account, you'll have the option to apply for an  arranged overdraft .

An arranged overdraft allows you to borrow money (up to an agreed limit) if there's no money left in your account. This can be useful if you're hit with an unexpected bill, for example.

If a payment would take you past your arranged limit (or if you don’t have one), we may let you borrow using an  unarranged overdraft . There's a chance that payments you try to make using an unarranged overdraft may be declined. However, we'll always try to allow essential payments if we can. 

You can apply for an arranged overdraft when you open your account, or at any time later. You can ask to increase, remove or reduce your limit at any time in online or mobile banking, by phone or in-branch. Your new limit can't be less than what you owe.

We report account activity, including overdraft usage, to credit reference agencies. An unarranged overdraft lasting more than 30 days could have a negative impact on your credit rating.

Overdrafts are designed for short-term borrowing only, and are subject to status.

Overdraft text alerts

If we’ve got your mobile number, we’ll send you an SMS text alert if you’ve gone overdrawn or we know you’re about to. These alerts are designed to help you manage your overdraft usage and avoid being charged interest.

You can opt out of overdraft text alerts by calling us or asking us in-branch – but remember you’ll be opting out for all your current accounts with us. If you opt out or we don’t have an up-to-date number for you, you could end up paying interest you might otherwise have avoided.

What are the overdraft charges for this account?

In the first year after graduation, you may be eligible for an interest-free overdraft facility up to £3,000, and up to £2,000 in your second year after graduation. In your third year after graduation, we’ll move you to an Advance account or an HSBC Bank Account. At this point, you may be eligible for an arranged overdraft of up to £1,000 interest-free to help make life easier (subject to status and how your account has been used). Any arranged overdraft above these amounts will be charged interest at 39.9% EAR variable.

Representative example (based on an arranged overdraft limit of  £1,200 ): Year 1:  0% EAR 3  on the first £3,000, 39.9%  EAR (variable)  on anything above that, giving a representative annual percentage rate (APR) of  0% APR (variable) 4 . Year 2:  0% EAR  on the first £2,000,  39.9% EAR (variable)  on anything above that, giving a representative rate of  0% APR (variable) .

The monthly cap on unarranged overdraft charges for the Graduate Bank Account is £20. Further details can be found online  at our Overdrafts page .

To find out more,  visit our Overdrafts page , where you can find out if you’re eligible for an arranged overdraft and use our overdraft cost calculator.

Who can apply?

You can apply for a Graduate Bank Account if you:

• are 18 or over 
• have graduated from university within the last 2 years
• have lived in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man for the past 3 years
• are happy for us to do a credit check against your name (if you live in the UK)
• have read the important account documents below

Important account documents 

• Graduate Bank Account fee information document (PDF, 199 KB) Graduate Bank Account fee information document (PDF, 199 KB) Download
• HSBC Banking Terms and Conditions and Charges (PDF, 1.45 MB) HSBC Banking Terms and Conditions and Charges (PDF, 1.45 MB) Download
• Pre-Contract Credit Information (PDF, 66.1 KB) Pre-Contract Credit Information (PDF, 66.1 KB) Download
• Guide to Credit Scoring (PDF, 91 KB) Guide to Credit Scoring (PDF, 91 KB) Download
• Glossary of Terms (PDF, 75 KB) Glossary of Terms (PDF, 75 KB) Download
• Standards of Lending practice (PDF, 44KB) Standards of Lending practice (PDF, 44KB) Download
• UK FSCS Information Sheet and Exclusions List (PDF, 106KB) UK FSCS Information Sheet and Exclusions List (PDF, 106KB) Download
• Privacy Notice (PDF, 138 KB) Privacy Notice (PDF, 138 KB) Download
•   Important notes Important notes Opens in overlay

Apply for your Graduate Bank Account now

To apply for a Graduate Bank Account, please visit us in branch. You'll need to bring:

• proof of graduation (eg a graduation certificate or letter or email from your university or college), including the date you graduated
• ID and proof of address
• your most recent bank statement

You might also be interested in

Switching to us is easy.

We make switching banks simple. Make the move from your old bank to HSBC in just a few easy steps.

HSBC Bank Account

A straightforward current account, with everything you need for to stay on top of your money.

Money worries

Concerned about your financial situation? Find out how we could help.

Standards of Lending Practice

HSBC adheres to the standards of lending practice guidelines.

Additional information

1. Find out more about the operating systems our app works on .

2. You'll need to opt in to receive instant notifications. You can do this in our app. This feature is currently being rolled out and may not yet be available on all devices.

3. EAR stands for effective annual rate. This is how all UK banks must show interest rates on their overdrafts, to make it easier for you to compare one bank’s overdraft with another. Please note that it doesn’t include any fees you might be charged in addition to interest.

4. APR stands for annual percentage rate. This is the rate at which someone who is borrowing money is charged, calculated over a period of 12 months. It takes into account not just the interest, but also any other charges you may have to pay, as well as any interest-free amount.

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8 Best Bank Accounts for College Students

The best bank accounts for college students have easy opening requirements, low or no fees and high interest rates.

Ruth Sarreal is a content management specialist covering consumer banking topics at NerdWallet. She has over a decade of experience writing and editing for consumer websites. She previously edited content on personal finance topics at GOBankingRates. Her work has been featured by Nasdaq, MSN, TheStreet and Yahoo Finance.

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A bank account can help college students manage money and build good financial habits. The best bank accounts for college students don’t charge monthly fees or require direct deposit, and they have forgiving overdraft policies and well-rated mobile banking apps, and offer multiple customer support options.

Note that college students under 18 typically need an adult to be a joint account owner.

The White House has announced plans to eliminate so-called junk fees on college-sponsored bank accounts. Read more about these fees and President Biden's plans.

Why trust NerdWallet: Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our coverage to help you choose the financial accounts that work best for you. See our criteria for evaluating banks and credit unions .

Summary of the best bank accounts for college students

• PNC Virtual Wallet Student
• Discover® Cashback Debit
• Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking

Ally Bank Spending Account

• Varo Bank Account
• Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account
• Marcus by Goldman Sachs Online Savings Account
• Wells Fargo Everyday Checking

Best Bank Accounts for College Students

Why We Like It

Pros: - No foreign transaction fees. - Some debit card purchases earn cash back.

Cons: - No branches. - It can cost up to $5.95 to deposit cash. - Joint accounts are not available; must be at least 18 to open an account.

The Varo Bank Account doesn’t charge a monthly fee or have a minimum balance requirement. If you’re studying or traveling abroad, you can use your Varo debit card without having to pay a foreign transaction fee. Debit card purchases at select brands earn up to 6% cash back. Stateside, you have access to tens of thousands of ATMs as part of the Allpoint network, including machines at retailers such as Target and Walgreens.

Varo’s overdraft policy is to decline or return transactions if you don’t have enough money in your account to cover the charge. If your balance does become negative, you won’t be charged an overdraft fee.

Pros: - Numerous tools for budgeting and avoiding overdrafts. - 24-hour grace period for overdrafts. - Free ATM network includes machines at convenience stores such as Wawa and 7-Eleven. - No monthly fees or minimum deposits for the first six years. - Can be as young as 16 to apply for an account (requires a co-applicant who’s at least 18).

Cons: - $36 overdraft fee can be charged daily. - Branches not available in all states.

PNC Virtual Wallet Student is a combined checking and savings account. The account is free for the first six years for active students and you can access all the tools on PNC's highly rated mobile apps.

Its tools can be helpful for developing financially healthy habits. Low Cash Mode helps you avoid overspending and getting hit with overdraft fees. Extra Time gives you at least 24 hours to bring your Spend balance out of the red. Payment Control lets you choose whether to pay or return certain checks and ACH transactions if your Spend balance is negative. Intelligent Alerts let you know when your Spend balance drops below a threshold you choose.

» Important to know: The basics about overdraft fees

at Alliant Credit Union, Federally insured by NCUA

With $0 min. balance for APY

Pros: - Massive ATM network of more than 80,000 fee-free machines. - Up to $20 in monthly rebates for ATM fees. - 0.25% annual percentage yield or APY with no minimum balance requirement. - No overdraft fees. - No monthly fees.

Cons: - Monthly electronic deposit is required to earn interest.

Alliant offers a checking account that makes it easy to get cash from an ATM: In addition to free access to more than 80,000 ATMs, account holders also get up to $20 in ATM fees reimbursed monthly. Plus, the account pays monthly dividends (the credit union equivalent to interest at a bank) as long as you sign up for electronic statements and have at least one electronic deposit (such as external transfers, a direct deposit or ATM deposit, or mobile deposits made using the credit union’s well-rated mobile app) each month.

Alliant’s overdraft policies are some of the best — it doesn’t charge any fees for overdrafts or overdraft protection transfers. You can opt into free overdraft protection to have transfers made from a linked account to cover transactions that would otherwise cause your balance to become negative. Without opting in to overdraft protection, transactions that would overdraw your account will be declined. Either way, you won’t be charged an overdraft fee.

With $100 min. balance for APY

Requirements to qualify

Pros: - Decent savings APY. - Subaccounts for goal-based saving. - Customer support is available through X (Twitter) and 24/7 by phone. - No age requirement to open an account (must have a parent or legal guardian as the joint account holder).

Cons: - No branches.

Alliant’s Ultimate Opportunity account pays 3.10% APY, and you can start earning interest on balances of at least $100.

If you’re saving up for a significant expense like spring break or summer travel, it’s easy to create supplemental savings accounts that you can name for each specific goal. The account comes with an ATM card that you can use fee-free at more than 80,000 ATMs, including those in the Allpoint and Co-Op networks.

You must opt in to receive electronic statements to avoid the monthly fee, maintain a minimum monthly balance of $5 to keep the account open, and have an average daily balance of at least $100 to earn interest.

at Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Member FDIC

Pros: - Competitive interest rate. - Customer support through X (Twitter) and 24/7 by phone and online chat. - Fewer ways to access funds, which may help you stick to a goal.

Cons: - Must be 18 to have an account, even as a joint owner. - No branches. - Cash deposits are not accepted. - No checking account or ATM network.

The Online Savings Account from Marcus by Goldman Sachs is online-only and doesn't offer an ATM card, which means it can be harder to access your cash — that can be a good thing when you're sticking to a budget and trying to build funds toward a goal.

It offers a competitive interest rate and doesn't charge a monthly fee. There's also no minimum deposit requirement.

Customer support is available 24/7 by phone or online chat, so you can get help whenever needed. The bank's highly rated mobile app also offers access to customer support.

It isn't easy to overdraft the account because the bank won't allow withdrawals or transactions if there aren't enough funds to cover them. However, if your account does become overdrawn (if you used the account to pay for a monthly subscription bill online, for example, but there weren't enough funds), you're responsible for the overdrawn amount. Marcus may close your account if your balance remains $0 or lower.

Waived with direct deposit or $500 minimum balance

Pros: - Thousands of branches across the country. - Everyday Checking account is free for account holders 17-24 or with a linked Campus ATM or debit card. - Customer support is available on X (Twitter) and 24/7 by phone.

Cons: - If you opt in to overdraft protection, the expensive overdraft fee can be charged up to three times per day.

If you’re unlikely to overdraft and prefer doing bank tasks in person (but also want to bank online), consider Wells Fargo. It offers about 4,400 branches across the country and has a highly rated mobile app. In addition, the bank’s Everyday Checking doesn’t charge a monthly fee for account holders 17-24 years old or with a Wells Fargo Campus ATM or debit card linked to the account.

That said, the bank’s overdraft fee is a steep $35 per transaction over $5 and can be charged up to three times a day (that’s $105 a day). However, overdraft protection transfers are free.

at Discover® Bank, Member FDIC

Up to $360 per year. See website for details.

Pros: - Customer support is available through X (Twitter) and 24/7 by phone. - 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month (see the Discover® Bank website for details). - No fee for replacement debit cards. - Free overdraft protection transfers.

Cons: - No branches. - Cash deposits are not accepted.

The Discover® Checking Account stands out thanks to its cash-back offering on debit card purchases. On top of that, the account is free and so are overdraft protection transfers. Both features are helpful if you’re starting to manage money.

No minimum deposit is required to open an account, and no minimum balance is required.

Our pick for

Overdraft-friendly Bank

Pros: - No overdraft fees and up to $250 in temporary coverage for overspending. - No fees or minimum balance requirements. - Get reimbursed for up to $10 in ATM fees each statement cycle. - Customer support is available through X (Twitter) and 24/7 by phone.

Cons: - No branches. - No cash deposits are accepted.

Ally’s checking account pays interest on any positive balance. In addition, it features one of the best overdraft coverage policies available: The bank doesn’t charge any overdraft fees and offers up to $250 in temporary coverage if you overspend. You can also set up overdraft transfers from a linked Ally account for free.

The account is free and the bank offers access to ATMs in the expansive Allpoint network (you can use the mobile app to find ATMs near you), plus, it reimburses up to $10 for out-of-network ATM fees each month. These features can make it easier to manage your money and help you maintain a positive balance.

Last updated on March 21, 2024

Methodology

Methodology for the Best Bank Accounts for College Students

To determine the best bank accounts for college students, we took a close look at accounts that are specifically designed for students as well as accounts with features and benefits that are helpful to students but not specifically designed for them. We compared the accounts based on monthly fees and requirements, overdraft policies, ATM network size, number of branches, mobile and online banking capabilities and customer support options.

Financial institutions and providers surveyed are: Affirm , Alliant Credit Union , Ally Bank , Amalgamated Bank , America First Credit Union , American Express National Bank , Axos Bank , Bank of America , Bank of the West , Bank5 Connect , Bank7 , Barclays , BB&T (now Truist), BMO , Boeing Employees Credit Union , Bread Savings , BrioDirect , Capital One , Charles Schwab Bank , Chase , Chime , CIBC U.S. , CIT Bank , Citibank , Citizens Access , Citizens Bank , City First Bank , ConnectOne Bank , Connexus Credit Union , Consumers Credit Union , Current , Discover Bank , E-Trade, Fifth Third Bank , First Foundation , First Republic Bank , First Tech Federal Credit Union , FNBO Direct , Global Credit Union , GO2bank , Golden 1 Credit Union , Hope Credit Union , HSBC Bank , Huntington Bank , Industrial Bank , KeyBank , Lake Michigan Credit Union , LendingClub Bank , Live Oak Bank , M&T Bank , Marcus by Goldman Sachs , Monifi , Navy Federal Credit Union , NBKC , One , OneUnited Bank , Pentagon Federal Credit Union , PNC , Popular Direct , PurePoint Financial , Quontic Bank , Redneck Bank , Regions Bank , Revolut , Salem Five Direct , Sallie Mae Bank , Santander Bank , Scarlet, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union , Security Service Federal Credit Union , Service Credit Union , SoFi , State Employees’ Credit Union of North Carolina , Suncoast Credit Union , SunTrust Bank (now Truist), Synchrony Bank , TAB Bank , TD Bank , TIAA Bank , Truist Bank , U.S. Bank , UFB Direct , Union Bank , Upgrade , USAA Bank , Varo , Vio Bank , Wells Fargo and Zynlo Bank .

To recap our selections...

NerdWallet's Best Bank Accounts for College Students

• Ally Bank Spending Account : Best for Overdraft-friendly Bank

Frequently asked questions

The best bank for college students offers accounts with no fees and low or no minimum balance requirements. For young adults beginning to manage their money, other useful bank features include a forgiving overdraft policy, easy access to customer support and fee-free ATMs.

» Learn more about how to choose a college bank account

Some banks transition college bank accounts into regular accounts once the account holder graduates. Other banks might let graduates keep their existing accounts but start charging a monthly fee after the account holder loses their student status.

» MORE: Learn how to choose a bank after college

Compare graduate bank accounts

Find the best graduate bank account to smooth your transition into adult life..

We compare the following student account providers

In this guide

• What's a graduate account?

Graduate bank account overdrafts

Can i switch to a graduate account.

• What if I've paid off my overdraft instead?

How to choose your graduate bank account

Frequently asked questions.

Student banking guides

The good news is, the latter will be easier than the former. Graduate accounts give you extra time to pay off your overdraft and get acquainted with the idea of being an adult.

What’s a graduate account?

Once you graduate, you soon lose the right to your student bank account . A graduate bank account is a bridge between your student bank account and the standard current account you’ll get once the graduate account has also “expired”.

Most banks automatically switch you to a graduate account once you graduate. Alternatively, you can also apply for one.

The most important feature of your graduate current account is the 0% overdraft it offers. Since student bank accounts offer generous interest-free overdrafts, students dip into them quite often. However, once uni is over, overdrafts have to be paid back.

Graduate accounts also offer 0% overdrafts for up to three years after you graduate; you should use this time to budget properly and pay back your debt. There are a few things to be aware of:

• The limit of your 0% overdraft usually reduces every year. So you should be prepared to repay part of your debt every year.
• Your overdraft limit and your 0% overdraft limit may not be the same. For example, you may get up to £2,000 overdraft, but only up to £1,000 0% overdraft. If that’s the case, you’ll be charged fees and interests if you’re overdrawn more than £1,000.
• Once your graduate account reverts to a standard current account, being overdrawn will become really expensive. This may happen one, two or three years after graduation, depending on your bank. With standard current accounts, overdrafts are a very expensive way of borrowing money for the long-term, so you should really pay yours off on time.

If your bank doesn’t offer a very good graduate account, it can be a good idea to switch. That’s possible through the CASS (current account switch service), which guarantees that all your payments and direct debits will be automatically redirected and that your old account will be closed, all within seven days.

However, some graduate accounts are only available to the same bank’s student account holders, so you may be unable to open one. Take that into account when comparing deals.

What if I’ve paid off my overdraft instead?

If you did your budgeting well and haven’t used or have paid off your overdraft, you should reconsider whether you need a graduate account or not.

On one hand, you’ll normally lose the vast majority of the perks and freebies that came with your student account. On the other, a 0% overdraft may still come in handy while you settle down, especially if your first job’s salary isn’t exactly stellar.

If you’re confident you’ll be able to remain in credit, you may want to have a look at high-interest current accounts . There aren’t many around, but they are a great way to boost your balance and start building up some savings.

To sum up, here’s how to secure the best current account deal once you graduate:

• Check the terms of the account your bank will offer you. If your bank already offers an excellent graduate account with a good 0% overdraft, you may not have to do anything.
• Look around for longer or better 0% overdraft deals. Ideally, you want an account that covers all your debt, for as long as possible. Make a plan for how you’re going to pay it back without incurring any charges.
• Check if the account you’re looking at allows switching from another bank. Fingers crossed.
• If you don’t need a 0% overdraft (you sure?), consider a standard account . Look for one that comes with rewards or interest paid on your balance.

Finally, banks often don’t advertise graduate accounts very much but they are there, so don’t give up too easily when looking for the right one.

Will I always get the advertised overdraft limit?

Can i switch to a different graduate account even if i'm overdrawn.

We show offers we can track - that's not every product on the market...yet. Unless we've said otherwise, products are in no particular order. The terms "best", "top", "cheap" (and variations of these) aren't ratings, though we always explain what's great about a product when we highlight it. This is subject to our terms of use . When you make major financial decisions, consider getting independent financial advice. Always consider your own circumstances when you compare products so you get what's right for you. Most of the data in Finder's comparison tables has the source: Moneyfacts Group PLC. In other cases, Finder has sourced data directly from providers.

Valentina Cipriani

Valentina Cipriani was a writer at Finder UK. She wrote news, features and guides about banking and credit cards, helping people to improve their financial lives. She holds an MA in International Journalism. See full bio

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Graduate bank account

After uni, you might want some time to figure out what’s next.

Our graduate account helps you go from learning to earning.  

Why open a Graduate bank account?

For up to 3 years after you’ve finished studying.

Borrow between £1,000 and £10,000. Subject to approval.

Do all your day-to-day banking through the TSB App.

Benefits of our graduate account

Convenient banking options

Easy access to your money

• A contactless Visa debit card for quick and simple spending
• Pay by card or with your phone using Apple or Google Pay
• Manage your account online, with the  app , over the phone, or in branch

Graduate account overdraft

Get your post-uni finances in order

• 0% APR variable graduate overdraft for 3 years
• Apply for an interest free overdraft of up to £2,000. Subject to application and approval
• Bring your debt together by applying for a graduate loan. 12.9% APR representative for loans between £5,000 and £10,000 for 1 - 5 years. Subject to approval

Put your savings on autopilot

Save the Pennies

• Use Save the Pennies to round up card payments to the nearest pound
• That change goes straight into your Savings Pot or another eligible TSB savings account
• You can quickly set this up in the app or with Internet Banking

Open a graduate bank account

You must be 18 or over

You have been a UK resident for at least 3 years

You graduated with a degree or diploma from a UK university or college within the last 3 years

Ready to apply

Apply for an account online

Open a graduate account online in as little as 10 minutes.

If accepted, you can then apply for an overdraft. You must be 18 or over and a UK resident to apply.

Or apply in branch

Want to chat about your finances? Talk to one of our Money Confidence Experts by calling 03459 758 758.

Any questions?

Ways to bank with us.

Internet Banking

The quick and easy way to control your money. Pay bills, check balances, transfer money between accounts, set up and cancel standing orders, view and cancel Direct Debits and more.

Find out more and get started with Internet Banking

Mobile Banking

Make it easier to manage your money on the go. It means you can do your banking on the move from most internet-enabled mobile devices - either using our app or via your mobile device's browser.

Find out more and get started with Mobile Banking

Telephone Banking

You can call our Telephone Banking service on 03459 758 758.

Our automated service is open 24/7.

Use our quick automated service to:

Check your balance and recent transactions

Pay your bills

Transfer money

Check your Direct Debits or Standing Orders

And you can speak to one of our advisers if you have a more complex query between 8am – 8pm Monday to Sunday.

Find out more about Telephone Banking

These services are available if you are over 16.

Your Visa debit card

Your TSB Visa debit card is an amazing piece of plastic. Accepted in millions of places and cash machines worldwide, it's incredibly convenient. It's just as safe to use abroad as at home, so it's a simple alternative to carrying cash.

More about the Visa debit card

An interest-free Arranged Overdraft of up to £2,000 in your first three years after graduation.

Overdrafts are subject to application and approval and are repayable on demand.

You can see full details about your overdraft and get an estimate of the costs of using this with our  overdraft calculator .

Grace Period

If your account goes over its limit, our Grace Period means that you have until 10pm (UK Time) to pay in enough money to avoid any Overdraft interest you may incur that day.

This is a simple everyday way to save for the things you want. Add Save the Pennies on to your account and every debit card payment you make is rounded up to the nearest pound. All those spare pennies go straight into your Savings Pot or any other eligible TSB savings account you’ve set up. So even when you’re spending, you’re putting a little bit aside too.

You can set this up easily on our mobile app, Internet Banking or in branch.

Find out more about Save the Pennies

Extra support to bank with us when you need it

There may be lots of different reasons you might need to bank with us differently, either in the short term, or on a continuing basis. It could be because of your physical or mental wellbeing, or because of a life event you’ve experienced. Whatever the reason, we are committed to tailoring our support to your personal needs.

If you choose to tell us about your individual support needs, we will take the time to understand your circumstances and work with you to make sure you have the support you need when banking with TSB. We can add a Support Indicator to your account, which means whenever you talk to us, we'll be aware that you may need tailored support.

Find out more about how we can support you

Coming to the end of your graduate account

When you have had your Graduate account for three years, we’ll move you to a Spend & Save account. We’ll write to you two months before we do this.

Important information

TSB adheres to The Standards of Lending Practice which are monitored and enforced by the LSB:  www.lendingstandardsboard.org.uk.

To read more about our lending commitments to you, please click  here  to read the leaflet.

Account Opening is subject to our assessment of your circumstances. You must be 18 or over and a UK resident to apply.

Text alerts are free but your mobile operator may charge for some services. Please check with them.

We don’t charge for your use of Mobile Banking but your mobile operator may charge for some services, please check with them. Mobile Banking is available on most internet enabled mobile devices. Services may be affected by phone signal and functionality. You must be registered for Internet Banking. Terms and conditions apply.

APR definition: A good way to compare the cost of our overdraft with other overdrafts or other ways of borrowing is to look at the APR. The APR shows the cost of borrowing for a year.

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TSB Bank plc. Registered office: Henry Duncan House, 120 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4LH. Registered in Scotland, no. SC95237. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under registration number 191240.

TSB Bank plc is covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Calls may be monitored and recorded in case we need to check we have carried out your instructions correctly and to help us improve our quality of service. Not all telephone banking services are available 24/7.

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• Current accounts

Higher Education Account

Helping graduates with life after uni

• No monthly fee
• Take control with the Barclays app. Check your balance, send money and even earn rewards 1
• Arranged overdraft of up to £1,500 interest free (subject to application, financial circumstances, borrowing history and lending criteria) 
• Now available to Higher Apprentices (Level 7+)

Whether you’re looking to start your first job, or travel the world, this account is available for three years after you graduate – which is the perfect next step after you’ve completed your studies.

How this account works

With this account you’ll be able to.

• Register for Online Banking , Telephone Banking and the Barclays app 2
• Get optional extra text alerts 3  to keep track of your cash
• Buy  packs for extras like travel insurance and gadget cover for a monthly fee
• Personalise your debit card with your own photo – a pet, a person, a place or even you at your graduation
• Earn monthly rewards when you join Blue Rewards. Available with selected current accounts. UK only. £5 monthly fee, eligibility criteria and T&C’s apply.

Who can apply?

If you have a student account with us and have recently completed your studies, sit back and relax. You don’t need to apply, we will automatically move you to a Higher Education Account if you meet the eligibility criteria below. We will let you know 2 months before and then move your account and transfer over your existing overdraft if you have one.

Arranged overdraft

As a graduate, you can apply for an arranged overdraft up to a maximum of £1,500 (subject to application, financial circumstances, borrowing history and lending criteria).

No interest is payable on arranged overdrafts.

Overdrafts are repayable on demand and interest charges are variable.

You can contact us at Barclays, Leicester, LE87 2BB

If you don’t already have an account with us, you can apply if you

• Are over 18 years old
• Live in the UK
• Have completed your full-time higher education in the UK within the past 3 years

When you apply, we’ll ask to see your degree certificate and 2 original documents (not photocopies) from this list .

General information about overdrafts

An overdraft limit is a borrowing facility which allows you to borrow money through your current account.

There are two types of overdraft – arranged and unarranged.

An arranged overdraft is a pre-agreed limit, which lets you spend more money than you have in your current account. It can be a safety net to cover short-term outgoings, like an unexpected bill. It is not suitable for longer-term borrowing. We charge you for every day of the month that you use your arranged overdraft where you go beyond any interest free limit you may have.

An unarranged overdraft is when you spend more money than you have in your current account and you have not agreed an arranged overdraft limit with us in advance or you have exceeded an existing arranged borrowing facility.

You can only make payments from your account if you have enough money in your account or through an arranged overdraft to cover them. Barclays will always attempt to return any transaction that could take your account into an unarranged overdraft position. Having enough money in your current account or having an arranged overdraft limit could help prevent payments such as priority bills from being returned unpaid.

On very rare occasions we may be unable to return a payment (e.g. due to an offline transaction made on a flight) and the account may enter an unarranged overdraft. No additional charges will be applied in this situation.

Information regarding the conduct of your account may be sent to credit reference agencies. As with any debt or borrowing, this may affect your ability to get credit in the future.

Our Eligibility tool can show you the likelihood of getting an arranged overdraft and the overdraft calculator lets you see how much it could cost to use an overdraft. To use these tools and find out more about overdraft charges, please visit www.barclays.co.uk/youroverdraft .

If we hold a valid mobile number for you, we’ll automatically enrol you to receive relevant alerts regarding borrowing and refused payments, to help you avoid charges. You can also choose to receive additional alerts, including Low Balance and Large Credit or Debit. Tailor your alerts to your personal needs online, by phone or in branch. To find out more, visit Barclays.co.uk/alerts .

Head to your local branch to apply or give us a call on 0345 600 4545 and we will book an appointment for you.

What you need to bring to the appointment

• ID documents
• Proof that you have completed your studies within the last 3 years (degree certificate) 4
• If you currently have an account elsewhere and would like to get our High Education Account, bring your bank’s debit card with you and we’ll sort the rest
• If you were a Higher Apprentice, you'll need to provide your apprenticeship agreement and commitment statement

Barclays insurance

A safety net for unpredictable events. You could have peace of mind today. We provide a range of cover that's designed to offer protection when you need it.

Protect your tech

Insure your devices and gadgets, and get repairs at your door.

Make sure you’re covered – don’t wait until something happens to your mobile phone or gadgets before checking if you’re insured.

Mobile and gadget insurance administered by Likewize and underwritten by Aviva Insurance Limited ("Aviva"). You’ll need to have an eligible current account with us. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

Travel Pack

Get cover for £14.50 a month

In partnership with Aviva and RAC. Protect your trips from the unexpected with cover for cancellations, breakdowns, lost baggage and more.

Six-month minimum term – terms and conditions  apply.

Account information and fees

You’ll find full details about banking with us and the terms and conditions of our Higher Education Account in the following PDFs: Terms and conditions for personal customers

Fee Information Document - Higher Education Account  [PDF, 348KB]

Current accounts – our bank charges explained  [PDF, 1411KB] 5

Get in touch

Questions about our Higher Education Account? We’re here to help.

We’re online 24/7. Call us instead if you have a question that we’d need to check your identity to answer.

Tweet @BarclaysUKHelp and we’ll reply within 2 hours. Call us if you have a question that we’d need to check your identity to answer.

New to us? Call 0345 600 4545, Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm, and Saturday, 9am-5pm. If you already bank with us, call anytime on 0345 734 5345 6 .

Barclays Money Mentors

Make the most of your money with a little planning

Book a session with our Barclays Money Mentors team to learn about the basics of budgeting and make your day-to-day money management a little easier.

• Important information

You must have a Barclays or Barclaycard account, have a mobile number and be aged 16 or over to use the Barclays app.  Terms and conditions  apply. Return to reference

You need to be 18 or over to access this product or service using the app.  Terms and conditions  apply.  Return to reference

We’re required by regulation to automatically register personal customers for some alerts. You’ll only be able to receive alerts if you’ve provided us with your current mobile number. You can opt out, if you want to.  Register to get optional alerts . Return to reference

You’ll need to show us proof that you've completed your studies, such as a degree certificate. Return to reference

To view PDFs, you'll need to have a PDF file viewer installed. Return to reference

To maintain a quality service, we may monitor and record phone calls.  Call charges . Return to reference

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Barclays Bank UK PLC and Barclays Bank PLC are each authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

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Registered office for all: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP

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General Banking Queries

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Calls may be monitored and recorded in case we need to check we have carried out your instructions correctly and to help us improve our quality of service.

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Our automated system is available 24 hours a day. 7 days a week. Our Business Advisers are available Monday to Friday 7am to 8pm, and Saturday 9am to 2pm.

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Ireland’s best student and graduate bank accounts

Compare the best student and graduate current accounts in Ireland. From free fees to features and benefits, discover a student account that suits your needs.

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:

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

PhD Bank Accounts

Hello everyone, I've been a lurker for a long time, but I feel now is the time to usurp this vast resource of knowledge and experience.....! I'm starting a PhD in October, and feel now is the time to get my bank accounts sorted. I've had a look around the main high street banks, but couldn't find any accounts suited specifically for PhD students. Has anyone know of a bank I should check out, or if not, what do you use? Also, if there're any good ethical accounts you know of, please let me know! Thanks a lot gang!

I don't think there is a specific postgrad student account and with some banks they refuse to acknowledge Phd students as students. Although I know that HSBC and Barclays recognise PhD students as students so you are eligible for what they offer there. I have an account with Barclays and always found them to be Ok. I'm not sure how ethical they are, but I have been with them since I was a kid so it helps to have a bit of bank loyalty when it comes to stretching the overdraft! I did see that the Royal Bank of Scotland offered a fairly attractive student account and they recognised Phd students too so they might be worth checking out. I find this site really useful for comparing banks/loans/credit cards etc http://www.fool.co.uk/ so take a look there 8-)

No, you don't really get PhD bank accounts. For ethical banking I'd recommend the Co-operative Bank, or Smile, which they also own, and is exclusively online.

I've got a student account with HSBC they were happy to put me back on student terms (after I'd worked for 4 years) though it did take them a while to umm and ahh about it before deciding it was ok. I don't know how ethical they are though.

Hello... Also a lurker who has also found this forum helpful 'many many many' times and also due to start in October, I thought I would add some info on my own search for a bank account.... Like other posts, I have not found an exclusive post-grad account but in respect to the student accounts I have been lured in by the Halifax as they offer the largest interest free overdraft over the 3 - 4 year period I expect to study (£3000). Also the other student accounts appear to offer an overdraft on a sliding scale - i.e. £1000 in year one, £1250 in year two generally up to a max of £2000. Check out the comparison at http://www.halifax.co.uk/bankaccounts/studentcurrentaccount.asp Whilst I don't think I quite need such an overdraft just yet I am working on the 'worst case' scenario and know it will be easier to get that account now rather than begging later when the PhD drags on longer than expected! As a fellow newbie though I can't comment on the Halifax in terms of service - for ethical reputation I have to agree with the previous post that you will never beat the co-operative.

Welcome to the board lurkers - the water's lovely and warm! I'll let the others talk about ethics, I'll talk about saving money. If you have a stipend you shouldn't be needing overdraft facilities, so you'd be better going for bank whose current account pays the highest interest. There are a few around. I'm with the Halifax and get 6.something per cent on my current account so long as the balance never exceeds £2500 (the rate plummets if you exceed it) and that you pay in £1,000 per month. For those of you, like me, who get paid quarterly this condition might seem a problem, but it isn't. Set up a web saver a long with it (can be done online) and set up a direct debit to pay £1,000 into your web saver from your current account, then set up another DD for 24 hours later to transfer it back. The computer reads it as £1,000 per month deposit and you get the high interest. The additional savings account can then be used to store any amounts over the £2,500 ceiling. Dead easy. I earn about £160 a year in interest this way. Failing that, have a look at some of the interesting golden hellos out there. Natwest were recently offering a £100 incentive which is more than you'll earn in interest in most current accounts in one year. Have you tried Moneysavingexpert for this sort of thing? He has some really good advice on banks and lots of other things you can save money on. I get his weekly email. www.moneysavingexpert.com

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July 31, 2024

Northern bank awards 2024 college scholarship to concord-carlisle high school graduate.

Woburn, Massachusetts , July 31, 2024 – Northern Bank is pleased to announce Madeleine P. Smack as the recipient of the 2024 James E. McGarry, Jr. college scholarship.

This $5,000 scholarship honors the late "Jim" McGarry of Woburn for his 50 years of dedicated service to Northern Bank and his lifelong support for local fire and police departments. The college scholarship is awarded annually to a student with a parent or guardian who is an active firefighter or police officer in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.

In her essay, Madeleine shared, “…my dad is one of those rare individuals who derives great satisfaction and fulfillment from helping others.” She further said, that like her father, it is her promise to “lead with purpose, develop to my fullest potential and follow the path of service to greatest influence and impact.”

Madeleine, whose father Kent is a firefighter in Carlisle, has demonstrated remarkable dedication to her community through various leadership and advisory roles. She has served as a Teen Board Member, Committee Member, Group Facilitator, and Tutor. Her academic achievements are equally impressive, boasting over 10 academic awards, excellent test scores, and a high GPA. This fall, Madeleine will attend Harvard University to study Chemistry.

“Madeleine’s commitment to excellence and her accomplishments in academics, community service, and leadership are commendable,” said Michelle Arnold, a member of the Northern Bank Charitable Foundation Committee. “We are continually inspired by the outstanding scholarship applications we receive and look forward to awarding another deserving candidate next year.”

The Northern Bank Charitable Foundation annually administers the James E. McGarry, Jr. Scholarship Fund since it was established in 2014. It will begin accepting applicants for next year in January.

About Northern Bank

Northern Bank is a full-service bank dedicated to providing practical, common sense financial solutions to help our customers’ lives and businesses grow. From deposit products to loans to payment and collections services, we work hands on with our entrepreneurial customers, both locally and across the country, to provide the financial support they need to realize their personal and business goals. Founded in 1960, Northern Bank has 12 locations serving communities throughout Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Northern Bank is a Member of the FDIC, and an Equal Housing Lender.

Latest Posts

Northern bank launches annual $5,000 college scholarship.

Northern Bank announced today that it would begin accepting applicants for its annual $5,000 college scholarship award.

Local banks band together to donate $300,000 in the fight to end homelessness

A group of Massachusetts-based banks recently celebrated a campaign that raised awareness and $300,000 for nonprofit Heading Home, which works to end homelessness.

Bank employs many fraud detection tools to keep information safe

In our interconnected world, institutions must share data to fulfill even the most basic business functions.

About Northern Bank & Trust Company

Northern Bank is a full-service bank dedicated to providing practical, common sense financial solutions to help our customers live their lives and grow their businesses. From deposit products to loans to payment and collections services, we work hands-on with our entrepreneurial customers, both locally and across the country, to provide the financial support they need to realize their personal and business goals. Founded in 1960, Northern Bank has assets of $3.11 billion with 12 locations serving communities throughout Middlesex County. Northern Bank is a Member of the FDIC, and an Equal Housing Lender.

Ready to take the next step? We're here to help!

Contact us now to learn more about how Northern Bank can help you realize your goals and dreams. 

Trump rally shooter Thomas Crooks: Neighbors, classmates, employer speak

A 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania fired multiple shots at former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday evening.

A bullet grazed the presumptive Republican presidential nominee's upper right ear , leaving him bloodied but not seriously injured. One rally attendee was killed in the gunfire and two others were "critically injured," authorities later said.

Here's what we know:

Who is the shooter at the rally?

The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the person behind the assassination attempt. Agency officials released little additional information, saying its investigation remains active and ongoing. They did not indicate what Crooks' motive might have been.

Crooks worked at a nearby nursing home. An administrator there told USA TODAY that the company was shocked to learn of the shooting and that Crooks had passed a background check for his job.

What did Thomas Crooks do at the crime scene?

During the shooting Saturday, Trump's right ear was injured, seconds before he was whisked off stage by Secret Service personnel.  One man attending the rally was killed  and two others were injured; Crooks was then killed by Secret Service agents , authorities said.

FBI special agent Kevin Rojek said on a call with media Sunday afternoon that authorities found "a suspicious device" when they searched the shooter's vehicle. Bomb technicians inspected the device and rendered it safe. 

"I'm not in a position to provide any expertise on the specific components of any potential bombs or suspicious packages," Rojek added. 

Rojek said law enforcement is sending the rifle and Crooks' cell phone, along with other evidence, to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia "for processing and exploitation."

"We're in the process of searching his phone," Rojek said.

Maps and graphics: What happened in the Trump assassination attempt

What is Crooks' background?

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Federal Election Commission records show that in January 2021, Crooks made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project, a group working to increase voter turnout for Democrats.

Born Sept. 20, 2003, Crooks does not have a criminal record in Pennsylvania, nor has he been sued there, according to state court records. There is no record of him in federal court databases, either.

Where did Thomas Crooks work?

Crooks worked as a dietary aid, a job that generally involves food preparation, at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, less than a mile from his home. In a statement provided to USA TODAY on Sunday, Marcie Grimm, the facility's administrator, said she was "shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement."

"Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean," Grimm said. "We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence."

The facility is owned by Kennett Square, Pennsylvania-based Genesis Healthcare. A job posting from the company for a dietary aid in the Pittsburgh area puts the pay at $16 an hour.

Thomas Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania

Crooks' home address is listed in Bethel Park, a suburb in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, voter records show. That three-bedroom brick house has been owned since 1998 by Matthew and Mary Crooks, who appear to be his parents. Telephone calls to the couple were not returned overnight.

Near the Crooks home, Dean Sierka, 52, said he had known Crooks and his parents for years, as neighbors separated by only a few houses. Sierka’s daughter attended school with Crooks from elementary school through Bethel Park High School, and said she remembers him as quiet and shy.

Dean and his daughter said they would see Crooks at least once a week, often when Crooks was walking to work.

“You wouldn’t have expected this,” Dean Sierka said. “The parents and the family are all really nice people.”

At Bethel Park High School

Thomas Crooks graduated two years ago from Bethel Park High School, the Bethel Park School District confirmed. He was included in a 2022 local news article about recipients of a National Math & Science Initiative Star Award at the public high school, which enrolls about 1,300 students.

Jason Kohler attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks and said he remembers the 20-year-old sat alone at lunch and was “bullied almost every day.” Kids picked on Crooks for wearing camouflage to class and his quiet demeanor, Kohler, 21, said.

Since hearing Crooks has been named as the shooter, Kohler has been speaking with classmates who knew him, most of whom are stunned by the news.“It’s really hard to comprehend,” he said.

Sean Eckert said he went to school with Crooks from 5th through 12th grade. He said Crooks always went by “Tom.“

They shared classes together in elementary and middle school. Eckert said Crooks, though "fairly smart," was quiet and rarely spoke up.

Eckert said Crooks did not seem to have many friends. He didn't recall Crooks being playing any sports, being involved in any clubs or student groups or going to popular campus events. He often wore hunting clothes, so Eckert assumed he hunted.

No one in Eckert's group text from high school seemed to know Crooks very well, he said. They were shocked that someone from their town had done this. They were even more surprised that it was Tom Crooks.

Nursing aide turned sniper: Thomas Crooks' mysterious plot to kill Trump

The gaming-oriented online site Discord said Sunday that it had found an account that appeared to be linked to the shooting suspect. The site removed the account, which “was rarely utilized, has not been used in months, and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence, or discuss his political views,“ according to a statement from a Discord spokesperson, adding that the company will coordinate closely with law enforcement.

Crooks was a member of the Clairton Sportsmen’s Club, a shooting club about 8 miles from his home. It is a sprawling complex of 180 acres with rifle, pistol and archery ranges, an area for dog training and a clubhouse, according to the club website.An attorney for the club, Robert Bootay III, confirmed Crooks' membership in an email to USA TODAY, but would not offer additional details.

Where is Bethel Park, Pennsylvania?

Bethel Park is a suburb of Pittsburgh and home to more than 32,000 people – about one thousand fewer than four years ago, according to the latest Census estimates. 

The majority-white, mostly college-educated community has a median household income of $102,177. 

Described as a charming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the big city to its north, Bethel Park boasts tree-line streets, friendly neighborhoods and a low crime rate.

Bethel Park is about 42 miles south of Butler, where the Trump rally was held. The leafy suburban street was alive with law enforcement overnight amid a multi-agency response to the shooting. A member of the Allegheny County bomb squad told reporters his team was headed into the house around midnight, but did not say why.

For hours afterward, the scene remained quiet, with deer passing under the police tape and an occasional neighbor stepping out of their house to see what was happening.

John Wolf, a local construction superintendent who lives down the road, said he’d talked with several worried neighbors.

“People are scared,” Wolf said.

How did Crooks shoot at Trump?

Crooks had been positioned on a rooftop more than 100 yards from the rally site, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle from the scene.

Joseph Price, special agent in charge of the ATF in Pittsburgh, said the weapon used by the shooter was a rifle.“It was nothing special,” he said in an interview in the parking lot of the Butler Township Municipal Building.

Law enforcement is following up on a “number of suspicious occurrences,” said Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police, including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

The FBI said in a news release that the situation “remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at  FBI.gov/butler  or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.”

Contributing: Stephanie Warsmith, Tim Evans, Aysha Bagchi, Jessica Guynn, Bryce Buyakie