Bank Accounts for Students

From my understanding, getting a bank account can be a difficult process in the UK, at least that what this website made it look like.  however, I remember reading that it is perhaps easier for students, although unfortunately, I have lost the link.  Part of the trouble from my understanding comes from having to produce evidence of having a place to live, is it easier if you are living in school housing or something?

I am not sure as I wasn't a student and had BUNAC to help me, but I know we had to have a letter of reference from our home banks.  (we also had to go to a specific NatWest in london so I don't know how helpful this information is)

What does BUNAC stand for?

www.bunac.org

British Universities North America Club.   it's easier if you are a student because you can get a registered letter from the university saying you are who you say you are and that you have a legit reason for being there.

See if your uni is associated with a particular bank - there is a NatWest on my campus (Exeter) and it was quite easy to get an account there....

There was a Bank of Scotland right in the student union of my uni, and all I needed to do was show them my admission letter and fill in a bit of paperwork.  They gave me a "student account", which allowed me to have a current account (no overdraft) and a savings account, as well as a Solo debit card valid for 2 years. 

I think that most banks have this sort of thing available, regardless of being attached to a student union, though.  Just go to your bank and tell them you want a student account and they should be able to hook you up.

To open an account as a student, you'll need your passport with student visa in it, 2 bank statements from your acct in the US, a paid utility bill and a letter from your uni to the bank saying you are enrolled.  I got mine at HSBC with no problems.