Barclays new student package

Barclays has unveiled its improved student package for 2009 providing them with an interest-free overdraft facility of up to £2,000, regardless of year of study, and a mobile broadband offer through Orange giving our customers 25 per cent off the normal monthly cost and a free USB modem, with potential savings of up to £112.50.

Students opening a Student Additions bank account will be able to apply for an interest-free overdraft of up to £2,000 for the duration of their studies, and up to a further £1000 at a rate of 8.9 per cent EAR. The mobile broadband offers are all based on 18 month plans and priced at £7.50 a month for 1GB, £11.25 a month for 3GB, and £18.75 a month for 10GB.

Andrew Harris, Head of Current Accounts at Barclays, said: "We recognise the financial challenges students have and that's why we have looked to provide them with a relevant package to support them through university life. We believe the 25 per cent discount off mobile broadband through Orange combined with the flat overdraft facility of up to £2,000 regardless of their year of study, are going to be of great help to students."

Barclays understand the financial challenges to students and has recently launched Barclays Money Skills to help all young people get to grips with understanding and managing money in a fun and practical way. A free activity pack with exercises such as planning a budget meal can be downloaded via pfeg.org/teaching_resources/resources/money_skills1625.html

Other features/services available to students:

Students can have a VISA debit card with new built-in contactless technology. The contactless enables the card to make transactions of £10 or less by holding it over a contactless card reader, without the need to enter a PIN, it's often the easiest way to pay. The cards will continue to work as normal for chip and PIN transactions, ATM withdrawals and other functions.
Barclays Student Possessions Insurance which includes a standard contents policy covering students during term-time for aspects such as accidental damage to PCs, TVs or sound systems, theft of personal possessions including library books and other items college-owned, possessions whilst in transit or temporarily removed from term-time address, fraudulent use of credit cards.
Students have access to dedicated personal bankers to provide advice and support and all Barclays customers can manage their accounts via telephone banking, 24/7 online banking and Barclays new mobile phone banking service. Customers can also top up their mobile at any Barclays ATM for free.

For more information go to barclays.co.uk/students