NatWest launches lucrative student bank account offer

Students could benefit from a range of perks, such as a generous interest-free overdraft and an attractive £100 bonus.

With the new academic year just around the corner, those headed to university in September may be planning how to handle their finances – and searching for any deals that could help them get the most out of student life. As of 1 July NatWest is relaunching its Student Account offer for 2026, with a plethora of perks on offer for those who open the account.

NatWest is offering students a £100 cash bonus for opening its Student Account (paid within 10 days), up from its £85 offering in 2025. Alongside this, the account comes with a competitive interest-free overdraft of up to £3,250. Customers can apply for an interest-free overdraft of up to £2,000 in their first year of study, which they can then apply to increase to £3,250 by their third year.

What’s more, customers will receive a free four-year tastecard membership which offers discounts at restaurants and takeaways as well as on shopping and entertainment.

Who is eligible?

The offer is available to new and existing customers opening a NatWest Student Account online.

To be eligible, customers must be 17 or over, have lived in the UK for a minimum of three years and be studying a full-time undergraduate course. Note that the minimum age to apply for the overdraft is 18. This should be two or more years at a UK university or college, or a nursing course lasting at least one year. Customers will also need to provide their 16-digit UCAS code. Note that students will only qualify for the £100 cash bonus and tastecard if they have not received a NatWest student incentive since July 2022.

How does it measure up?

There’s no doubt that going to university is an expensive time in a person’s life, so a cash incentive and the buffer of an interest-free overdraft could help to ease the financial strain.  

“A generous interest-free overdraft is a fundamental part of a student current account, so it’s great to see NatWest offering a highly attractive offer, particularly for those who plan to study for three years or more” Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, commented.

While offers on student bank accounts can be enticing, and with more expected in the lead up to the academic year, it’s important to consider all the features of the account and their suitability for you. 

As well as bank account offers, there are other options to help students manage their finances, such as through budgeting apps. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for student offers. Many places provide student discounts, such as clothing retailers and restaurants, if you show them your student ID.