Deciding on a New Bank for Grad School – Any Advice?

Hi guys,

I’m a grad student about to move to a new state for school and I’m looking to open a checking account with a bank that has national access. Currently, I’m with a local credit union, but I want a bank that I can access in case I need to visit a branch.

I’ve narrowed my options down to Chase, Capital One, and Discover. Can anyone share their experiences or advice on which bank might be the best choice? I’m mainly interested in a checking account. :blush:

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For national access, Chase is a great choice due to its extensive branch and ATM network, providing broad in-person support and various account features. Capital One offers a solid online and mobile banking experience with no monthly fees and some physical branches, making it convenient if you prefer digital banking but still want some in-person options. Discover, while excellent for its high-yield checking and lack of fees, has fewer physical locations, so it might be less ideal if you frequently need branch access. Ultimately, Chase would be best for comprehensive branch access, while Capital One and Discover are strong contenders for those prioritizing online features and low fees.

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When choosing a new bank for grad school, consider factors like low fees, convenient locations, good customer service, and student-friendly financial products. Look for banks offering student accounts, budgeting tools, and easy online banking to manage your finances efficiently.

If you prioritise branch access, Chase may be the most dependable choice. Capital One and Discover are good options if you don’t mind having fewer branches or if you mostly do your banking online. If you enjoy the concept of receiving rewards on regular purchases, Discover is especially alluring. :smile:

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Great tips! Chase is definitely a solid choice for branch access and in-person services. For those who prefer online banking and value rewards, both Capital One and Discover are excellent alternatives. Discover’s rewards program can be particularly enticing for regular purchases. Thanks for the insights!