READING

Read the following texts and match each to the most suitable heading from the list on the next
page. Each heading can only be used ONCE. There are three headings you will not need to use.

OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT IN THE UK

Everything an international student needs to know about opening a bank account in the UK.

Text 1

Arranging a new bank account abroad can seem like a challenge. However, with a little basic
research, an account can be opened quite easily. The internet is one of the best ways of
finding this information and is often used by international students.

Text 2

A basic current account can be opened with any bank in the UK. A trial period is demanded by
some banks, with a charge of £10 per month for the first three months. However, not all banks
do this, so international students should shop around first.

Text 3

With a basic current account, money can be withdrawn from an ATM cash machine, and
money can be deposited in the account. There may not be any credit facility, but a student
account often has an overdraft limit of £1,000.

Text 4

Certain documents are needed to open a bank account. This may include a passport or other
identity document, and proof of the customer’s current address. A utility bill, such as a gas or
electricity bill is usually enough for this. Students may need a letter from their university or
college.

Text 5

A debit card is provided with most UK bank accounts. It is accepted by most shops and for
buying goods online. The money is taken out of the account immediately a purchase is made. A
new card often takes 7–10 working days to come through the post and the PIN number is sent
separately.

Text 6

Banks must do everything they can to make sure their services are not used for money
laundering and other financial crimes. UK law states that banks must prevent accounts from
being opened under false identities and must ask anyone who wants to open an account for
documents to prove their identity. If the bank suspects that fraud has taken place, the account
will be closed immediately.
Text 7

The bank will do regular checks to make sure that your account is safe and to prevent fraud. The
bank should be informed when you are going abroad, so that account managers do not become
suspicious when your card is used outside the UK.

Text 8

There are many facilities available to customers with current accounts. These include online
banking and telephone banking. Getting to the bank can in opening hours be difficult, so at least
that’s one less thing to worry about.

A Problems that international students face

B Choosing the most suitable account

C Informing the bank of your plans

D Advice for cash-flow problems

E The account’s benefits and features

F Further details regarding the account card

G Crime prevention

H Dealing with the important questions

I Easy banking

J Documents needed to open an account

K Ways to improve a credit rating

Text 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Letter
ANSWER KEY:

1..H

2. B

3. E

4. J

5. F

6. G

7. C

8. I