A student sits at a table and works on a labtop.

Student Banking

Banking in the United States

Students Can Open An Account Before Arriving in the U.S.

International students can quickly and easily open a U.S. checking account through University Credit Union (UCU) before they arrive at UC Davis. UCU is a trusted partner of UC Davis and offers several benefits for students. 

Benefits of opening a UCU account online before arrival:
  • Save time and stress: Open your account online before you arrive in the U.S. so you have less to do when you get here.
  • Get instant access: Receive your digital debit card within 24 hours of application approval, and add it to your digital wallet on your mobile device.
  • Pay bills easily: Pay tuition and other bills through UCU’s convenient digital banking platform.
  • Enjoy fewer fees: Avoid costly foreign transaction fees.

How to Open a Checking Account Online 

Get started online to receive a digital debit card before you even leave your home country. 

The secure online application only takes a few minutes and requires the following information:

Contact Details:

  • Primary Email Address: Where you'd like to receive important account updates.
  • Student Email Address (your UC Davis email address ending in .edu): This helps verify your student status.

Personal Information:

  • Full Name: Just as it appears on your official documents.
  • Home Address: Where you currently reside.
  • Date of Birth: To confirm your eligibility.

Identification:

  • Identification Document: Upload a clear photo of your passport biographical page or government ID.

Once you submit your application, you'll receive a confirmation email letting you know it’s been received.

Email UCU if you have questions about what documents are accepted. 

Ready to Get Started?  Visit UCU’s online application to open your account.

About Debit Cards

Digital Debit Card is Connected to Your Mobile Device

Once your University Credit Union account is open, you can add your digitally issued debit card to your mobile wallet. This is a convenient way to pay and can save you time when you arrive.

How to Get a Physical Debit Card

Once you arrive on campus, visit a University Credit Union representative at the UC Davis Banking Hub in the Memorial Union to provide the following:

  • Valid government-issued ID (such as your passport)
  • Proof of your connection to UC Davis (student ID, UC Davis acceptance letter, etc.)

You will also be asked for your U.S. address. Once verified, your physical card will be mailed to your confirmed U.S. address. Remember, you can continue using your digital card while you wait for your physical card.

FAQs

  • Why should I open a U.S. account?
  • Students find that managing finances as an international student is easier with a U.S. account. You will enjoy quick and easy access to your funds to pay for tuition, bills and everyday expenses compared to using international accounts. 
  • Why should I bank with University Credit Union?
  • University Credit Union is a trusted UC Davis partner, working on behalf of the greater Davis community and UC Davis students, staff and faculty who bank with the institution. You have many options for banking with a U.S.-based institution. UCU offers UC Davis students the ability to open a banking account before arriving in the U.S., which is not available at other institutions. UCU also operates a banking hub in the Memorial Union on campus, making its team members and services easily accessible to students.

    In addition to offering products and services tailored to meet your unique needs as a student, UC Davis member-owners have an exclusive Aggie debit card. Visit the UCU university partnership website to learn more.
  • What is the difference between a credit union and a bank? 
  • Credit unions and banks function almost the same, with similar benefits and accountability. The main difference is that a bank is a for-profit organization controlled by its board of owners, and a credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution owned jointly by its members (also called “member-owners”). With a credit union, the institution's earnings benefit the local community and members through enhanced banking and financial services, expert team members, low rates and more.
  • Can I speak to a UCU team member before applying? 
  • Yes, you can schedule an online appointment to talk to a UCU team member and get answers to your questions. 
  • Are my funds secure in an American credit union?
  • University Credit Union is insured by the U.S. government through the National Credit Union Administration up to $250,000 per depositor. American institutions are federally insured to maintain their security for all consumers.

    University Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.
  • How can I access my money and manage my everyday banking needs?
  • University Credit Union’s digital banking experience includes a top-rated mobile app with features such as account transfers, bill pay and more. Spending with a digital debit card is easy and secure, and can also be done by adding your card to your digital wallet on your mobile device. To access your money in cash, visit the on-campus ATM and banking hub in Memorial Union. 

    A note about ATM access: UCU member-owners have unlimited surcharge-free ATM withdrawals throughout the United States courtesy of an extensive cooperative network. UCU will even reimburse you up to $25* in ATM fees per month with your University Checking Account. 

    You can also make appointments with a UCU financial coach, who can provide you with tips for budget management, saving and other topics. For more information, visit ucu.org.

    *Up to $25 in ATM fees incurred at other financial institutions will be automatically credited to your active University Checking Account at the end of the month.

About University Credit Union

University Credit Union logo

Managing coursework while adjusting to life abroad can be overwhelming. University Credit Union (UCU) wants to help you with some of this stress by supporting your financial success. UCU offers personalized service, expert advice, and convenient tools to help you navigate your money matters during your studies.

For more information about UCU’s offerings, locations, or potential fees, including free international and domestic incoming wire transfers, visit the UCU website.