Navigating the financial landscape can be daunting for college students, especially in a bustling city like Boston.
With numerous banks vying for attention, finding the right one that caters to student needs is crucial. From low fees to convenient locations, the ideal bank can make managing finances a breeze.
Boston is home to some of the top educational institutions in the country, and banks here understand the unique requirements of students.
Whether it’s offering student-friendly checking accounts or providing financial literacy resources, the right bank can significantly impact a student’s financial well-being.
This article highlights the 10 best banks for college students in Boston, helping them make informed choices.
Top 10 Best Banks for College Students in Boston
When choosing a bank as a college student in Boston, it’s important to consider factors like fees, convenience, and services.
Here are the top 10 best banks for college students in Boston, considering factors like fees, accessibility, account features, and student-friendly services:
1. Eastern Bank
Eastern Bank grabs attention with its student-friendly checking accounts. Located at 65 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108, it’s easy for students to visit.
Their website, easternbank.com, provides online banking services, ideal for tech-savvy users. Eastern Bank opens at 9 AM on weekdays, making it convenient for students with busy schedules.
They offer low fees and no minimum balance requirements on student accounts. Eastern Bank also provides tools and resources to help students manage their finances better.
The bank’s 5.0 rating and positive reviews emphasize its commitment to customer satisfaction. With a 24/7 customer support line at (617) 523-3551, students can get help whenever needed.
Eastern Bank partners with various educational institutions in Boston, offering special promotions and financial literacy programs.
Their proximity to college campuses and user-friendly services make them a top choice for students.
2. Citizens Private Bank
Citizens Private Bank, located at 772 Boylston St within the Prudential Center, is an excellent choice for college students in Boston.
This bank opens at 9 AM on weekdays, fitting well with student schedules. Rated 5.0 with positive reviews, it emphasizes customer satisfaction.
They offer low-fee checking accounts and no minimum balance, ideal for students. Their online banking services make managing finances easy and convenient from anywhere.
With financial literacy resources and student-focused promotions, they help students make informed financial decisions.
The bank’s central location is a bonus, providing easy access for busy students. Visit locations.citizensbank.com or contact them at (617) 406-6400 for more details.
3. Bank of America Financial Center
Located at 285 Huntington Ave, Boston, the Bank of America Financial Center is a convenient option for college students.
Opening at 10 AM on weekdays, it offers services tailored to student needs. This bank provides student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements, helping students manage their finances with ease.
Bank of America’s online and mobile banking services allow students to handle transactions on the go. With a 3.3 rating from 37 reviews, some students appreciate its central location and comprehensive services.
Also, the Huntington Plaza location ensures easy access for students living nearby. For further details, students can visit bankofamerica.com or contact them at (617) 437-0233.
4. Bank of America Financial Center
Located at 133 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, the Bank of America Financial Center is a prime option for college students.
With a rating of 3.3 from 20 reviews, it offers essential banking services tailored to student needs. It opens at 10 AM on weekdays, making it convenient for students with busy mornings.
The bank provides student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements, ensuring affordability.
Its online and mobile banking services enable students to manage their accounts remotely. Located in a central area, it offers easy access for Boston-based students. For more information, visit bankofamerica.com or call (617) 638-0015.
5. Berkshire Bank
Berkshire Bank, located at 61 Brookline Ave, Boston, provides excellent banking solutions for college students.
Opening at 9 AM on weekdays, it ensures students can access services before classes. With a 3.3 rating from 3 reviews, it offers student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements.
Its robust online banking services facilitate easy financial management. They also provide financial literacy resources to help students make informed choices. For more details, students can visit berkshirebank.com or call (617) 247-2599.
6. Hingham Institution for Savings
Hingham Institution for Savings, located at 540 Tremont St, Boston, offers several services beneficial for college students. Opening at 9 AM on weekdays, it fits well into student schedules.
This bank provides student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements, essential for those managing tight budgets.
Their robust online banking platform allows students to handle transactions conveniently. Hingham Institution for Savings has a rating of 4.2 based on 5 reviews, reflecting positive customer experiences.
Students can visit hinghamsavings.com for more details or contact them at (617) 426-1444. With a strategic location and tailored financial services, this bank caters effectively to student needs in Boston.
7. Eastern Bank
Eastern Bank stands out as a top choice for college students. Conveniently located at 155 Dartmouth St, Boston, it opens at 9 AM on weekdays, fitting well into busy student schedules.
With a decent 3.8 rating from 17 reviews, the bank offers student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements. Online banking services cater to tech-savvy students, allowing easy financial management.
Eastern Bank also provides a 24/7 customer support line and partners with educational institutions for special promotions and financial literacy programs. For more details, students can visit easternbank.com or contact them at (617) 927-2200.
8. Webster Bank
Webster Bank, located at 1327 Beacon St, Brookline, MA, is a solid choice for college students in Boston. With a 4.0 rating from 9 reviews, it offers student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance requirements.
Opening at 9 AM on weekdays, it fits well into student schedules. Webster Bank’s robust online and mobile banking services allow students to manage their finances conveniently.
The bank provides financial literacy resources to help students make smart financial decisions. For more information, visit websterbank.com or call (617) 264-6170.
Additionally, students can benefit from Webster Bank’s ATM network, which is extensive throughout Boston, minimizing out-of-network fees. The bank also offers personalized financial advice, tailoring solutions to individual needs.
9. Hingham Institution for Savings
Located at 540 Tremont St, Boston, Hingham Institution for Savings is ideal for college students. Opening at 9 AM on weekdays, it fits perfectly into student schedules.
The bank offers student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance, making it financially accessible.
Their robust online banking platform allows students to manage their finances efficiently. The bank has a rating of 4.2 based on 5 reviews, indicating positive customer experiences. For more details, students can visit hinghamsavings.com or call (617) 426-1444.
10. OneUnited Bank
OneUnited Bank stands out for its digital banking services, ideal for tech-savvy students in Boston. Located at 100 Franklin St, this bank provides a comprehensive suite of digital tools under TheOne™ Digital Banking, enabling students to manage their finances efficiently.
They offer student-friendly checking accounts with low fees and no minimum balance, making it suitable for college budgets.
Opening at 10 AM on weekdays, it aligns with student schedules. Rated 3.8 from 10 reviews, customers appreciate its emphasis on financial literacy and customer service.
Found on the first floor of Webster Bank, more details are available at oneunited.com or by calling (877) 663-8648.
Facilities Provide These Banks for College Students in Boston
College students in Boston need banks that offer easy, accessible, and affordable services tailored to their financial needs.
From no-fee accounts to user-friendly mobile banking platforms, these banks provide a range of facilities that make managing finances easier for students.
Here’s a breakdown of the facilities provided by banks for college students in Boston:
Student-Friendly Accounts
Many banks provide checking accounts specifically for students that feature no minimum balance requirements and low or no monthly fees.
This helps students avoid unnecessary charges and manage their finances more effectively, especially when budgets are tight.
Digital Banking Solutions
Banks commonly offer robust online and mobile banking services, allowing students to access their accounts anytime, anywhere.
These platforms typically include features for transferring funds, paying bills, and depositing checks remotely, which is essential for busy students juggling classes and extracurricular activities.
Financial Literacy Resources
In addition to standard banking services, many institutions provide financial literacy resources.
These can include workshops, online tools, and personalized guidance to help students learn about budgeting, saving, and managing debt. Such educational programs empower students to make informed financial decisions.
ATM Access
Students can benefit from extensive ATM networks that reduce out-of-network fees. Many banks also offer fee reimbursements for using ATMs that are not affiliated with their networks, ensuring students have convenient access to cash without incurring additional costs.
Credit Options
Some banks provide credit cards designed for students, which often come with lower interest rates and rewards programs.
These cards help students build their credit histories while offering benefits that align with their spending habits.
Personalized Financial Guidance
Many institutions focus on providing personalized financial advice tailored to the unique circumstances of college students.
This guidance can assist students in making informed choices regarding savings, investments, and managing student loans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Eastern Bank recommended for students?
Eastern Bank is recommended for its student-friendly checking accounts, convenient location at 65 Beacon St, low fees, no minimum balance requirements, online banking, and a high rating for customer satisfaction.
What are the benefits of Citizens Private Bank for students?
Citizens Private Bank at 772 Boylston St offers low-fee checking accounts, no minimum balance requirements, excellent online banking services, and financial literacy resources, making it a top choice for students.
How can online banking benefit students?
Online banking provides convenience for students to manage their finances anytime, anywhere. Features include balance checks, bill payments, and transferring funds without needing to visit a branch.
What makes Bank of America suitable for students?
Bank of America offers student-friendly checking accounts with low fees, no minimum balance requirements, and comprehensive online and mobile banking services. It also has multiple convenient locations in Boston.
Why consider Berkshire Bank for student banking?
Berkshire Bank at 61 Brookline Ave offers low-fee checking accounts, no minimum balance requirements, and robust online banking services. The bank focuses on financial literacy, helping students make informed decisions.
How does Hingham Institution for Savings serve students?
Hingham Institution for Savings provides student-friendly checking accounts, low fees, no minimum balance requirements, and a solid online banking platform. Its convenient location and positive customer reviews add to its appeal.
What resources do these banks provide for financial literacy?
Many student-friendly banks in Boston offer financial literacy programs and resources, including workshops, online tools, and customer support to help students understand and manage their finances better.
Can international students open a student bank account?
Yes, international students can open student bank accounts, but they may need to provide additional documentation like a passport, student visa, and proof of enrollment in a Boston college or university.
What steps are needed to open a student bank account?
To open a student bank account, you typically need a government-issued ID, proof of enrollment (like a student ID or acceptance letter), and your Social Security number. Some banks also allow you to start the application online.
Conclusion
Researching and choosing the best bank can significantly ease a college student’s financial journey.
To make the process simpler, students should consider visiting the bank websites mentioned in this text for detailed information on account features and promotions.
They can also call the provided contact numbers for personalized assistance. Checking third-party review sites can give additional insights into customer experiences.
Visiting branches in person allows for a firsthand look at services and offers, ensuring they pick the best fit for their financial needs.
Additionally, students should inquire about any special student account benefits such as fee waivers, lower minimum balances, and online banking capabilities.
Making an informed decision now can lead to smoother financial management throughout their college career.
Natalie Kurtzman