# Bank-related Informations

To apply for a bank account, you'll need a bank letter (official document provided by your university confirming your enrollment and local address). It's required by most banks in the UK to open a student bank account.

To collect a bank letter from your Manchester University, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Student Services Centre or the International Office at your university.
2. Request a bank letter. You may need to provide your student ID, passport, and proof of residence.
3. Wait for the letter to be prepared. This may take a few minutes up until days, so plan accordingly.
4. Collect the letter in person.

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#### Lists of Banks in Manchester with Pros and Cons

1. **HSBC**
   * **Pros:** Wide international presence, useful for international students. Offers a dedicated student account with benefits.
   * **Cons:** Might require a branch visit for account opening.
   * **Account Registration:** [HSBC Student Account Registration](https://www.hsbc.co.uk/current-accounts/products/student/)
2. **Barclays**
   * **Pros:** Offers a feature-rich student account. Good mobile banking app.
   * **Cons:** Could have better customer service ratings.
   * **Account Registration:** [Barclays Student Account Registration](https://www.barclays.co.uk/current-accounts/student-account/)
3. **NatWest**
   * **Pros:** Provides incentives for students, like cashback offers. Good online banking experience.
   * **Cons:** Limited international services compared to HSBC.
   * **Account Registration:** [NatWest Student Account Registration](https://www.natwest.com/current-accounts/student_account.html)
4. **Santander**
   * **Pros:** Offers a free Railcard, saving money on train fares. Competitive overdraft offers.
   * **Cons:** Branch visits might be required for some services.
   * **Account Registration:** [Santander Student Account Registration](https://www.santander.co.uk/personal/current-accounts/123-student-current-account)
5. **Lloyds**
   * **Pros:** Good for international students; offers a free international student account.
   * **Cons:** Overdraft facility is less competitive.
   * **Account Registration:** [Lloyds Student Account Registration](https://www.lloydsbank.com/current-accounts/all-accounts/student-account.html)
6. **Monzo**
   * **Pros:** Operates entirely online with a top-rated app
   * **Cons:** No physical branches; fees for international ATM
   * **Account Registration:** [Monzo Student Account Registration](https://monzo.com/current-account/students/)
7. Revolut
   * **Pros:** free international transactions.
   * **Cons:** No overdrafts or loans; Potential delays in customer service.
   * **Account Registration:** [Revolut Student Account Registration](https://www.revolut.com/a-radically-better-account/)

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**Pro tip #1:** You can also apply for regular accounts instead of student accounts.
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**Pro tip #2:** Most banks offer an online application process. You'll typically need your passport, visa, proof of address in the UK, and a university acceptance letter or bank letter.

Some banks may require you to visit a branch in person to complete your application, especially for identity verification purposes.
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**Pro tip #3:** Unlike in Indonesia, where cash and e-wallets are predominantly used for transactions, purchases in the UK are commonly made by tapping your debit card on an EDC machine for in-person shopping, or by entering your debit card details into online stores like Amazon. Keep your card secure!
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