Student Account

Our smart account for children and teens, packed with great features to help you start managing your money.

Learn how money works, track your spending and build confidence with money. As you get older, you’ll get more control and access to more banking features.

From your first bank account to greater independence, this account grows with you.

Why choose the Student Account?

Contactless debit card

A Visa debit card you can use in shops, online and on the go. You can also pay quickly and easily with your phone using Apple Pay or Google Pay.

365 digital banking (ages 14+)

Take control of your money with our app or online banking. Check your balance, move money, and manage your account anytime — on your phone, tablet or computer.

Gimi app (under 14s)

A fun app that helps you learn about money through games and rewards for completing tasks. You can track your money and your parent can support you while you build good money habits.

Parental oversight (under 14s)

Your parent can help you manage the account and keep it safe. They can check your spending, add money, set spending limits and get alerts when use your card. If your card is ever lost, they can freeze it quickly.

Spending limits

Set daily spending limits on your card. If you’re under 14, your parent can manage these limits for you. Limits can be changed by contacting the Contact Centre.

Spending alerts

You (or your parent, if you’re under 14) get an alert when you buy something with your card, helping you track your spending and keep your account safe.

Banking beyond the app

There are other ways to bank and get help. You can call us, visit a branch or go to your local Post Office.

Card controls

You (or your parent, if you’re under 14) can activate your card for online payments, freeze it if it’s lost or stolen, view your PIN instantly, or order a replacement card — all within our mobile app.

Built in safety

Your card won’t work in places intended only for adults, like casinos or gambling websites. We also block some shops and websites that sell age restricted items, so your money stays safe.

Watch your money grow

When you keep your money in your account, you earn a little extra called interest. It’s a simple way to see how saving can help your money grow over time.

An account for life

As you grow up, your account grows with you. When you’re ready, we’ll update your account for your next stage. Your account number stays the same, your card still works and you can keep using your account without stopping.

Protected and secure

Our fraud helpline is available to help protect you against fraud 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your money is safe under the Deposit Guarantee Scheme.

Is the Student Account right for me?

This product is right for you if:

  • You’re aged between 10 and 19
  • You’re in P7 or full-time secondary education

This product may not be right for you if:

  • You’ve left secondary school
  • You need an account designed for everyday adult banking

 

Compare our other accounts

Not the right account?

If you’ve left school, our Basic and Clear accounts may suit you better.

If you are at University, take a look at our 3rd Level Student Account.

Compare our accounts to find the one that’s right for you.

Compare Products

What are the interest rates?

Interest while your account is in credit

Earn interest on money you keep in your account to give you the taste of earning some money on your money.

Balance AmountGross/AER % variable
£1+0.10%

Interest is paid monthly and rates can change over time.

If you have money that you don’t need for everyday spending, a savings account could offer a higher rate of interest and help you save for your future.

 

What happens once you finish secondary school?

Your banking needs may change when you leave school. Whether you’re continuing your studies, starting work or doing something else, we have accounts designed for every stage of life.

Take a look at our Basic, Clear and 3rd Level Student accounts to find the right option for you.

Current Account switch guarantee

Switch your account in just seven working days

The Current Account Switch Service makes moving your account simple in just seven working days.

We will sort everything for you

We’ll transfer your payments, balance and online banking payees for you.

If something goes wrong during the switch, the Current Account Switch Guarantee means you won’t be left out of pocket.

Read more about the Current Account Switch Service.

Ways to bank

 

Gimi app

If you’re under 14, Gimi is a fun app that helps you learn about money. Connect it to your Student Account to build smart money habits.

Learn about the Gimi app

Digital banking

Aged 14 or over? With 365 digital banking you can bank anytime, anywhere, online or via our app. Check balances, move money and manage your account in just a few taps.

Explore digital banking

Ready to apply?

To open this account you’ll need to complete an application and provide documents to confirm your identity and address. You will need:

  • A valid form of photo ID
  • A proof of address
  • If you are under 13, you need permission from a parent or guardian to open an account. We recommend that they are with you when you apply
  • If you are switching an account to us, please also have your existing account number, sort code and debit card details (if you have one)

Find out about which documents we accept. Make sure you refer to the correct section of the list, especially if you’re under 16, to avoid delays.

The quickest way is online

  • Step 1: Get ready! Choose your device (mobile, tablet or quickest computer) and have your documents ready

    Keep in mind:

    • If you are 16 and over, you can upload your documents and take a selfie during your application, you will need a phone, tablet or computer with a camera. You can either take a photo of your original paper document or use the original digital file. We cannot accept screenshots. We recommend saving the files to your device before you start. If you prefer, you can bring your original documents to any of our branches in Northern Ireland. You do not need to book an appointment
    • We will verify your mobile number and email address by sending codes to them during the application. Be ready to receive them
    • Savings accounts, such as KidSave, can’t be changed to a Student account. However, you can apply for a new Student account at any time.

  • Step 2: Click apply!

    • Complete the application and submit it when you are finished
    • You won’t be able to save your application and come back to it later so make sure you have enough time to complete it. Most applications take about 20 minutes.

    Apply now

  • Step 3: Well done! Receive the account documents and wait for your account number

    • Once you submit your application, we will send you an email straight away with all the information you will need
    • If you’re under 16, you’ll need to visit a branch to show your documents, and you if you’re under 13, your parent or guardian must come too. You do not need to book an appointment
    • We’ll check your application and documents. If everything is in order we will open your account and email your account number to you.

Apply over the phone

Need help and prefer to apply over the phone with one of our staff? Call 0800 0850 444 for free Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

How to manage your account

Free text alerts

Get alerted about events happening on your account

Find out more

365 Digital Banking

Manage your money online or through our banking app

Find out more

Pay with your phone

Apple Pay
Google Pay

Ways to bank

Bank with us online, over the phone, in branch and at your local Post Office

Find out more

Contactless debit card

Make payments up to £100 without entering your PIN

Find out more

Gimi app

Track your money and learn good financial skills.

Find out more

Card controls

It’s easier than ever for you to control your debit card

Find out more

Turn off paper statements

Go digital and save paper. Free online statements

Find out more

Help Centre

Find answers to lots more of your questions

Find out more

Important information


Student Account Brochure


Personal Current Account Terms and Conditions


Student Current Account Charges Explained


Schedule of Service Charges


Smarter Banking

Links to related information

FAQs

  • What are the identity and address documents accepted?

    The documents you can use may depend on your age and how you apply. Select your age to see which documents you can use and how to provide them.

    If you are under 13 years of age

     

    You will need from both you and your parent or guardian:

    • One proof of identity document and
    • One proof of address document.

    You and your parent or guardian must visit one of our local branches in Northern Ireland and bring your original documents with you. There is no need for an appointment.

    The same document can’t be used twice for proof of identity and proof of address, even if it appears on both lists.

    Proof of identity

    The document must show your full name. We cannot accept initials or expired documents.

    If your identity document shows an address, it must match the current address provided in your application.

    We accept:

    • A valid passport from any country
    • An original birth certificate (under 18s only)
    • A National Identity Card from an EU or EEA country, showing a photograph and date of birth
    • A passport travel card from an EU or EEA country
    • A full or provisional UK or Republic of Ireland driving licence
    • A UK Biometric Residency Permit (eVisa)
    • A current full photocard driving licence from the EU, EEA, United States, Canada or Australia
    • An Electoral Identity Card issued in Northern Ireland
    • A current firearms certificate or shotgun licence.

    Proof of address

    The document must show your full current address and first and last names. We cannot accept initials on your first name.

    We accept:

    • A UK, EU, EEA, US, Canadian or Australian photocard driving licence, if it has not already been used as proof of identity
    • A bank, building society, credit card company or credit union statement dated within the last six months. We do not accept Monzo statements. You can use a statement for any type of account, such as a savings account, current account, mortgage, loan or credit card. If you upload a digital statement, it must be a pdf file and show the bank or company’s logo
    • A household bill dated within the last 6 months. For example, gas, electricity, home phone or broadband, waste or water charges. Mobile phone bills or dongle contracts cannot be used
    • HMRC or Revenue Commissioner correspondence dated within the last six months. For example, Tax Coding (we do not accept P60, P45 or a letter confirming your National Insurance number)
    • Local authority correspondence dated within the last 12 months. For example, rates or council tax, Housing Executive, Electoral Office (polling card cannot be used if an Electoral ID card is used for identity)
    • Department for Work and Pensions or Department of Social Welfare correspondence dated within the last six months. For example, a letter relating to benefits or pension or social welfare claim
    • Government correspondence about grants or entitlements dated within the last six months. For example, an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) letter
    • A property tax letter dated within the last 12 months
    • A motor tax certificate dated within the last 12 months
    • A health, home or car insurance document dated within the last 12 months

    Important notes

    If you don’t have a proof of address document in your own name, your proof of address must be under the name of the parent or guardian that you live with.

    If a legal guardian is acting on the child’s behalf, we require evidence of guardianship.

    If you apply by phone and need to provide documents, you can either bring them to one of our branches or upload them using our Document Upload service. If you choose to upload your documents, your original proof of identity document must be certified before a photograph is taken and uploaded. The document can be certified by one of the following:

    • An accountant, solicitor, barrister, attorney, commissioner for oaths, notary public, or justice of the peace
    • A Post Office official (UK only)
    • Embassy or government official provided they have an official brand confirming the government department.
    If you are aged 13 to 15

     
    You will need:

    • One proof of identity document and
    • One proof of address document.

    You must go to one of our branches in Northern Ireland and bring your original documents. We must get them directly from you, no one else can bring them. You do not need an appointment.

    The same document can’t be used twice for proof of identity and proof of address, even if it appears on both lists.

    Proof of identity

    The document must show your full name. We cannot accept initials or expired documents.

    If your identity document shows an address, it must match the current address provided in your application.

    We accept:

    • A valid passport from any country
    • An original birth certificate (under 18s only)
    • A National Identity Card from an EU or EEA country, showing a photograph and date of birth
    • A passport travel card from an EU or EEA country
    • A UK Biometric Residency Permit (eVisa)
    • A current firearms certificate or shotgun licence.

    Proof of address

    The document must show your full current address and first and last names. We cannot accept initials on your first name.

    We accept:

    • A bank, building society or credit union statement dated within the last six months. We do not accept Monzo statements.
      You can use a statement for any type of account, such as a savings account or current account. If you upload a digital statement, it must be a pdf file and show the bank or company’s logo.

    Important notes

    If you don’t have a proof of address document in your own name, your proof of address must be under the name of the parent or guardian that you live with. In this case we will also need a proof of identity document from your parent or guardian.

    Your parent or guardian can use the documents listed in the If you are aged 16 and over section. You and your parent or guardian must visit one of our local branches in Northern Ireland and bring your original documents with you. You do not need an appointment.

    If a legal guardian is acting on the child’s behalf, we require evidence of guardianship.

    If you apply by phone and need to provide documents, you can either bring them to one of our branches or upload them using our Document Upload service. If you choose to upload your documents, your original proof of identity document must be certified before a photograph is taken and uploaded. The document can be certified by one of the following:

    • An accountant, solicitor, barrister, attorney, commissioner for oaths, notary public, or justice of the peace
    • A Post Office official (UK only)
    • Embassy or government official provided they have an official brand confirming the government department.
    If you are aged 16 and over

     
    You will need:

    • One proof of identity document and
    • One proof of address document.

    Both documents must be in your name. The same document can’t be used twice for proof of identity and proof of address, even if it appears on both lists.

    Proof of identity

    The document must show your full name. We cannot accept initials or expired documents.

    If your identity document shows an address, it must match the current address provided in your application.

    We accept:

    • A valid passport from any country
    • A National Identity Card from an EU or EEA country, showing a photograph and date of birth
    • A passport travel card from an EU or EEA country
    • A full or provisional UK or Republic of Ireland driving licence

    If you apply by phone, or apply online and choose to bring your documents to a branch, you can also use:

    • A UK Biometric Residency Permit (eVisa)
    • A current full photocard driving licence from the EU, EEA, United States, Canada or Australia
    • An Electoral Identity Card issued in Northern Ireland
    • A current firearms certificate or shotgun licence.

    Proof of address

    The document must show your full current address and first and last names. We cannot accept initials on your first name.

    We accept:

    • A UK, EU, EEA, US, Canadian or Australian photocard driving licence, if it has not already been used as proof of identity
    • A bank, building society, credit card company or credit union statement dated within the last six months. We do not accept Monzo statements. You can use a statement for any type of account, such as a savings account, current account, mortgage, loan or credit card. If you upload a digital statement, it must be a pdf file and show the bank or company’s logo
    • A household bill dated within the last 6 months. For example, gas, electricity, home phone or broadband, waste or water charges. Mobile phone bills or dongle contracts cannot be used
    • HMRC or Revenue Commissioner correspondence dated within the last six months. For example, Tax Coding (we do not accept P60, P45 or a letter confirming your National Insurance number)
    • Local authority correspondence dated within the last 12 months. For example, rates or council tax, Housing Executive, Electoral Office (polling card cannot be used if an Electoral ID card is used for identity)
    • Department for Work and Pensions or Department of Social Welfare correspondence dated within the last six months. For example, a letter relating to benefits or pension or social welfare claim
    • Government correspondence about grants or entitlements dated within the last six months. For example, an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) letter
    • A property tax letter dated within the last 12 months
    • A motor tax certificate dated within the last 12 months
    • A health, home or car insurance document dated within the last 12 months

    Important notes

    If you are aged 18 or over, we may try to confirm your identity and/or address electronically using information held by credit reference agencies.

    If a legal guardian is acting on the child’s behalf, we require evidence of guardianship.

    If you apply by phone and need to provide documents, you can either bring them to one of our branches or upload them using our Document Upload service. If you choose to upload your documents, your original proof of identity document must be certified before a photograph is taken and uploaded. The document can be certified by one of the following:

    • An accountant, solicitor, barrister, attorney, commissioner for oaths, notary public, or justice of the peace
    • A Post Office official (UK only)
    • Embassy or government official provided they have an official brand confirming the government department.


  • What charges will I pay?

    We don’t charge a monthly fee for maintaining the account, but charges can apply:


  • How can I get in touch?

    You can call us for free on 0800 0850 444. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm


FSCS Protection

Your eligible deposits with Bank of Ireland (UK) plc are protected up to a total of £120,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, the UK’s deposit guarantee scheme. This limit is applied to the total of any deposits you have with the following: Bank of Ireland UK and Post Office. Any total deposits you hold above the limit between these brands are unlikely to be covered.

Please click here for further information or visit www.fscs.org.uk