Choosing the right student checking account is an important decision that can significantly impact your financial future. In 2025, many banks offer student checking accounts with attractive sign-up bonuses, no monthly fees, high APYs, and opportunities to build credit.
Here’s a look at the best student checking accounts available, detailing the sign-up bonuses, how to earn them, and why each account is an ideal choice for students.
1. Chase College Checking
Chase Bank is a major financial institution that provides a student checking account specifically for students aged 17 to 24. The Chase College Checking account offers access to a network of thousands of branches and ATMs, making it convenient for students across the country. It’s a well-suited option for students who need flexible banking services while studying.
Sign-Up Bonus: $100 Chase college checking account bonus
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new Chase College Checking account.
- Complete 10 qualifying transactions within 60 days. Qualifying transactions include debit card purchases, online bill payments, and Zelle® transactions.
Requirements:
- Available for students aged 17 to 24.
- No monthly service fee if you are under 24 and provide proof of enrollment in a degree program.
Why It’s Best for Students: Chase College Checking is a great student checking account that offers a simple path to a bonus with easy-to-achieve requirements. The absence of monthly fees for students and the ability to waive them after graduation makes it an excellent choice for students managing their finances during school.
Chase bank bonus offers include up to $300 for new checking accounts when you meet deposit requirements.
2. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking®
Bank of America is a global banking leader, and its Advantage SafeBalance Banking® account is designed to cater to students’ financial needs. This Bank of America checking account provides a fee-free experience for younger account holders and easy access to a broad range of banking services, making it perfect for students who want simple and hassle-free banking.
Sign-Up Bonus: $300
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new Advantage SafeBalance Banking® account.
- Receive at least $2,000 in qualifying direct deposits within the first 90 days.
Requirements:
- Available for students under 25.
- Bank Of America promotions include a $4.95 monthly service fee, which is waived for those under 25 or with a qualifying direct deposit.
Why It’s Best for Students: The Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking® account offers a substantial sign-up bonus, along with simple, easy-to-meet requirements.
The account’s fee waivers make it an excellent choice for students who want to avoid unnecessary charges while still benefiting from a full-service checking account.
3. SoFi® Student Checking and Savings
SoFi® is a digital-first financial institution that provides a combined checking and savings account, perfect for students who want to manage both accounts in one place. SoFi® offers no fees, competitive APYs, and a focus on financial education, making it a great option for students who want to make smart financial decisions.
Sign-Up Bonus: Up to $30
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new SoFi® Student Checking and Savings account.
- Receive a direct deposit of at least $1,000 within the first 30 days.
Requirements:
- No minimum balance requirement.
- Direct deposit of at least $1,000 within the first 30 days.
Why It’s Best for Students: SoFi® is an excellent choice for students looking for a no-fee checking account with the added benefit of a combined savings option. The Sofi promotions bonus is easy to earn with just one direct deposit, and the student checking account provides flexibility and growth opportunities for students.
4. American Express® Rewards Checking
American Express® offers its Rewards Checking account, which provides students with an opportunity to earn rewards on their debit card purchases. This student checking account allows for the accumulation of Membership Rewards® points, adding value to everyday purchases.
Sign-Up Bonus: $250
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new American Express® Rewards Checking account using the link.
- Receive two direct deposits of at least $1,000 each within the first 90 days.
Requirements:
- Direct deposits of at least $1,000 each, totaling $2,000.
- Account must be opened by April 15, 2025.
Why It’s Best for Students: The American Express® Rewards Checking account is ideal for students who want to earn rewards while managing their finances. With a substantial sign-up bonus and the ability to earn Membership Rewards® points, it’s an excellent student checking account for those who want to make their spending work for them.
5. Capital One MONEY Teen Checking Account
Capital One offers a unique teen checking account that is perfect for younger students (ages 8 to 18). The Capital One MONEY Teen Checking account is designed to help students learn about money management while providing flexibility and parental controls.
Sign-Up Bonus: $25
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new Capital One MONEY Teen Checking account.
- Make 5 qualifying debit card purchases within the first 60 days.
Requirements:
- Available for teens aged 8 to 18.
- No monthly service fee.
Why It’s Best for Students: Capital One Checking account bonus is a great option for students looking for a straightforward, fee-free checking account. The easy-to-earn bonus and the opportunity to learn about money management with parental controls make it a fantastic choice for young students just beginning their financial journey.
6. PNC Virtual Wallet Student
PNC offers the Virtual Wallet Student account, which combines checking and savings features while offering budgeting tools and financial education resources. This student checking account is designed to help students manage their finances effectively and save for the future.
Sign-Up Bonus: $50
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new PNC Virtual Wallet Student account.
- Receive a direct deposit of at least $500 within 60 days.
Requirements:
- Direct deposit of at least $500.
- No monthly service fee for students.
Why It’s Best for Students: PNC’s Virtual Wallet Student account is great for students who want to combine checking and savings into one account, with the added benefit of financial tools. The bonus is easy to earn, and students can enjoy the benefits of a no-fee checking account while building good financial habits.
7. Discover® Cashback Debit
Discover® offers a cashback debit account that rewards students for making everyday purchases. This student checking account provides 1% cashback on up to $3,000 in monthly debit card purchases, making it an attractive option for students who want to earn while they spend.
Sign-Up Bonus: $50
How to Earn the Bonus:
- Open a new Discover® Cashback Debit account.
- Make 10 qualifying debit card purchases within the first 30 days.
Requirements:
- No monthly service fee.
- 10 qualifying debit card purchases.
Why It’s Best for Students: The Discover® Cashback Debit account is ideal for students who want to earn rewards on their spending. Discover bank promotions gives the potential to earn cashback on purchases and no monthly fees, this student checking account offers great value for students who want to make their money work for them.
Key Considerations for Choosing Student Checking Accounts:
When deciding on the best student checking account, keep these factors in mind:
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Many banks offer attractive sign-up bonuses for new students. These bonuses can be earned by meeting simple requirements, such as setting up direct deposit or making a certain number of transactions. Opt for the one with the easiest and most achievable conditions.
- Monthly Fees: Choose accounts with no monthly service fees or ones that waive fees if certain conditions are met, such as maintaining a minimum balance or making regular deposits.
- APY (Annual Percentage Yield): Some student checking accounts offer competitive APY, allowing your savings to grow. While not all accounts have high-interest rates, it’s important to look for those that offer a return on your balance.
- Credit-Building Features: Many student checking accounts come with features that help you build credit, such as reports to credit bureaus or spending insights, which can be valuable as you start establishing a credit history.
- Bonus Requirements: Always read the fine print. Ensure you understand the specific steps to earn the bonus, such as the number of transactions, minimum deposit amounts, or timeframes.
Conclusion:
Each of these student checking accounts offers unique benefits tailored to different needs. From easy-to-earn bonuses and rewards to tools for managing finances and building credit, these accounts are designed to support students as they embark on their financial journey.
By carefully reviewing the features, bonuses, and requirements, students can choose the best student checking account that aligns with their goals and helps them make the most of their money. Whether you’re looking to build your credit, earn rewards, or simply avoid fees, there’s a student checking account option that’s perfect for you.
FAQs
How can I earn the sign-up bonus with a student checking account?
To earn the sign-up bonus, you typically need to meet specific requirements, such as opening a new account and completing a set number of transactions, such as direct deposits or debit card purchases. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of the account to ensure you fulfill the necessary steps within the given time frame.
Are students checking accounts fee-free?
Many student checking accounts offer no monthly service fees, especially for students who are enrolled in school. However, some accounts may have conditions that need to be met to waive the fee, such as setting up a direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance. Always check for fee waivers before committing.
Can student checking accounts help build my credit?
Some student checking accounts come with credit-building features, such as the ability to link to a credit card or report your activity to credit bureaus. While most student checking accounts themselves don’t directly impact your credit score, using them responsibly can help establish a good financial foundation for future credit applications.