International Students

Let’s get your education in Canada started right.

Planning to study abroad? Bank like you’re at home.

Before you hit the books, the StartRight program can help you start banking in Canada with access to no monthly fee account1, unlimited debit and Interac e-transfers2, unlimited international money transfers3 and more. It’s all part of why Scotiabank is the bank for International Students.

Studying abroad? Bank like you’re at home.

Before you hit the books, book an appointment with us to set up an account made especially for students. Enjoy no monthly fees1, unlimited debit and Interac e-transfers2, unlimited international money transfers3 and more with the StartRight program. It’s all part of why Scotiabank is the bank for International Students.

Get rewarded with the Scene+ Student Banking Bundle

Earn up to $640 in welcome bonuses and savings when you bundle your banking.1

While you are in Canada, open a no fee Student Account, apply for a credit card and set up your savings account.

Learn more

Get your study permit faster with the Scotiabank Student GIC Program.

Meet all of the study permit requirements and pay for living expenses while in Canada. Available to international students from China, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Senegal4.

Get program details and apply
Connect with us

The Government of Canada recently revised the cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants.

Learn more

Already have your study permit? Open a Scotiabank International Account online today.

Use it to transfer money before you move and get set up with the StartRight Program once you’re here5.

Get account details and apply
Connect with us

Worry about studying, not your bank account.

With the StartRight program you can bank without monthly account fees1, get a credit card with no credit history4, and enjoy benefits like no-fee international money transfers and movie perks5free movies rewards4-5.

Book an appointment to apply

The Government of Canada recently revised the cost-of-living requirement for study permit applicants.

Learn more

What documents do I need to open an account?

Your Study Permit (IMM 1442) or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

One additional piece of government photo ID such as your passport or Canadian driver’s licence

Proof of enrollment from your Canadian Educational Institution such as your Student ID card or your course timetable.

Learn more about student banking

Scotiabank. The bank for International Students.

Cash

Free chequing account with no monthly fees41.

Money Transfer

Get unlimited no-fee international money transfers3.

Cash Back

Unsecured credit card with a limit of up to $5,000 and movie rewards6-74-5.

Mobile Bank

Safe and secure online and mobile banking 24/7.

Learn more about student banking

Love movies? Get the Get the Scotiabank® Scene+™* Visa* Card.

We can help you get a credit card with a limit of up to $5,000 and free movies rewards as soon as you arrive6-7. No Canadian credit history required.4

A little more on your credit history...

A good credit history can make it easier for you to borrow money, while a bad credit history – or no credit history – can make getting loans for things like cell phones, credit cards, and housing more difficult.

Learn how to build a good credit history

“I had a great experiencing opening my account as an international student. I couldn’t be happier with the service and professionalism at Scotiabank.”

Anjali StartRight Program Customer

More reasons to love the StartRight Program:

  • Scotiabank is Canada’s international bank with close to 25 million customers and over 2,700 branches around the world.
  • Access to over 950 Scotiabank branches and 3,600 ABMs across Canada.
  • Personalized support at the branches in the language that’s most comfortable to you.

View branch locations

Find a branch near me

Get advice on all things Canadian.

Personal stories, articles and resources to help you settle in sooner.

Personal stories, articles and resources to help you navigate student life.

Learn more about life in Canada