Studying Abroad? Here’s How to Set Up Your Finances in Europe

Are you preparing to study abroad in Europe? While you’re dreaming of exploring charming streets, enjoying local delicacies, and making new friends, don’t forget one of the most important parts of your move—setting up your finances.

Managing your money in a foreign country might feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right bank by your side, you can stay in control, save money, and make the most of your experience. That’s where bunq comes in. Here’s everything you need to know to make your finances work for you while studying abroad.

1. Get Your Bank Account Sorted Before You Land

Starting fresh in a new country is exciting but can come with challenges, like navigating an unfamiliar banking system. With bunq, you can open a European Bank Account online in just 5 minutes—even before you arrive. No branch visits, no paperwork, no BSN. By the time your plane touches down, you’ll already have an account ready to handle rent, tuition, or your first grocery run.

2. Students Get Pro for Free!

Did you know that students in Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain can use bunq Pro for free? As long as you provide proof of enrollment, you’ll automatically get a 100% discount. That’s one less expense to worry about during your studies abroad!

3. Take Charge of Your Budget

As a student, managing your money is key. bunq makes it easy with tools like up to 25 Bank Accounts, so you can organize your budget into categories—rent, groceries, travel, or fun. Personalize each one and set goals to keep everything clear and stress-free. It’s budgeting so easy that you’ll actually do it.

4. Say Goodbye to Hidden Fees

If you’re planning to explore Europe or travel internationally on your study breaks, you’ll want to avoid foreign exchange fees. With ZeroFX, you will always get the best exchange rates abroad. Whether you’re buying train tickets in Tokyo or ordering a beachside cocktail in Bali, your money goes further. Plus, bunq lets you spend in up to 39 currencies, including 20 Foreign Currencies for saving. From euros to yen, dollars to pesos, you can manage your money with ease—perfect for travel, online shopping, or everyday expenses.

5. Get Paid Like a Local

A Foreign IBAN is essential when studying in Europe. With bunq, you can receive payments like scholarships, stipends, or part-time job salaries directly to your account. No juggling multiple accounts or expensive conversion rates—just seamless payments.

6. Stay Secure on the Go

Studying abroad means plenty of adventures—but losing your card doesn’t have to ruin them. With bunq, you can freeze or unfreeze your card instantly through the app, keeping your money safe even if your card is misplaced.

7. Send and Receive Money in Seconds

Whether you’re paying your landlord or reimbursing a friend, bunq’s Instant Payments get the job done in seconds. No waiting days for transactions to clear—you’re always in control.

8. Watch Your Money Grow

Every euro counts as a student. With bunq, you earn 3.11% interest on all your accounts—no minimum balance needed. Even your coffee fund can grow a little extra over time.

9. Manage Your Account in Your Language

Moving abroad is challenging enough without language barriers. With bunq, you can manage your finances in your preferred language, so you always feel confident and in control.

Why bunq is Your Perfect Partner for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is all about new experiences, and bunq ensures your finances never hold you back. From Easy Budgeting and Instant Payments to no crazy foreign exchange fees, bunq gives you the freedom to focus on your studies, friendships, and adventures.

Don’t let banking stress get in the way of your European journey. Open a Bank Account today and start enjoying financial freedom from day one.

* bunq B.V. is a bank with a Dutch banking license and is supervised by Dutch Central Bank (DNB) and the Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM).

3.11% is the bonus gross annual rate. You earn it on all your EUR savings until your first threshold calculation. Your threshold is your highest savings balance over the previous 6 months, recalculated every January 1 and July 1. After that, the part of your savings up to your threshold earns the base rate: 1.61% on the first €10,000 of that part and 1.51% on the rest. The part above your threshold earns the 3.11% bonus rate. All rates are variable and can change. Find more information on help.bunq.com/en-nl/articles/whats-massinterest-and-how-does-it-work

Not investment advice.

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