Banking Information

Why Have a U.S. Bank Account

With a local bank account, you can pay all of your bills by check, and manage your bill payments online immediately.  In addition, many banks issue debit cards with a MasterCard or Visa emblem, which enables you to use the card to make purchases anywhere that accepts credit cards, or withdraw cash from an ATM (Automatic Teller Machine). The most common types of accounts are checking and savings accounts. 

To open an account: 

You should take several pieces of identification with you to be prepared as well as funds to open the account.  Identification should include:

• Passport
• F1 Visa
• I-20 (which will identify you and your relationship with FCC)
• I-94 printout
• A copy of your schedule if you are enrolled in classes already
• Another form of identification you may have such as a Student ID card, or driver’s license. 

Things to consider in choosing a Bank 

• Convenience and safety of the location – do you want it close to your school, or to where you live? 
  Hours the bank is open to assist you – is it open on Saturdays?
• Types of services available including those related to international transactions 
• Fees the bank may charge monthly and for services such as wire transfers -- some banks may offer free banking services for students, so be sure to identify yourself as a student
• Interest rates on accounts
• Recommendations from other students or your sponsor