Banking & Money Tips for International University Students
At UW Credit Union, we make it easy for international university students to manage their finances with smart technology and convenient services.
Checking/debit accounts are perfect for your day-to-day spending needs
Savings accounts let you securely set aside your money and earn a little interest
Free debit cards make purchases super easy, using funds from checking
Download our Mobile App for banking anywhere
Manage your money 24/7 via Web Branch, our online banking destination
Use Zelle® — a fast, safe way to send and receive money in the U.S.
Save money with our surcharge-free ATMs
Joining UW Credit Union is Easy
Opening an Account Online Is Quick and Convenient
Here’s what you’ll need to join UW Credit Union and open an account:
Passport
Social Security number or ITIN (if applicable)
A minimum deposit of $5 in your savings account
If you have a tax ID/SSN/federal ID in your home country, please have that number readily available at your account opening
Please note: Your student ID cannot be used to open an account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn More About Opening Your Account, Making Deposits and Paying Bills
When will I receive my debit card? You will receive your debit card at the branch on the day you open your account.
How do I pay my bills? Depending on the situation, you may need to use checks, especially if large sums are involved. Or, you may want to pay bills with Web Pay, using our online Web Branch service. You also can use Zelle® to send money to people you know and trust with a bank account in the U.S.
Where can I make deposits? You can deposit checks or cash at any of our branches. You also take advantage of Mobile Deposit, which enables you to make deposits with your smartphone. Download our Mobile App and try it out!
Key Information and Tips to Help You Succeed
Take Advantage of Insights Specifically for International Students Like You
Wire Transfers: Send Money Globally
Moving money almost anywhere in the world is fast, safe and convenient with wire transfers. You can complete a wire transfer online using Web Branch, or by visiting our nearest branch in person. All you need is a passport
Fees for Wire Transfers:
Domestic: $20
International: $40
Sending Funds to Your UW Credit Union Account Please keep in mind that the sending institution will need the following information:
ABA Number: 2759-7907-6
Our Name: University of Wisconsin Credit Union
Our Address: 3500 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53705
Your full name, address (as it appears on your account), and UW Credit Union account number
Note: You can wire funds to your UW Credit Union account without having to use a Swift Code, IBAN or international routing code.
How to Avoid Common Scams
Protect Yourself Against Scams Targeting the University Community
Fake Check Scams
The most common check scams begin with one of these situations:
You sold an item online and the buyer overpays.
Surprise! You “won” a prize, for a contest you didn’t enter.
You’re overpaid as a “secret shopper.”
You’re hired to do small jobs like dog walking and are paid too much.
In cases like these, the person who sent you a check will ask you to send back money or buy gift cards to cover the amount you were overpaid, or to cover extra “fees.” After that, you find out the check you received is not real. As a result, you lose money.
Government-Themed Scams In most cases, you’re contacted by someone claiming to be from a tax or law enforcement agency. They warn that you’ll be punished for not paying fees or fines, and tell you to transfer money elsewhere. In these scenarios, you’re tricked into giving away money.
Sublet Scams If you’re subletting your apartment, you might be contacted by an “interested renter” who sends you a check for more than the amount of the security deposit and the first rent payment. Then they’ll ask you to send the extra “overpayment” money back to them. This is a scam, because the check they sent you is not real.
What to Watch For
Someone overpaying when they send you a check
People asking you to provide access to your account
Individuals asking you to act immediately or keep their request for money “secret"
Phone calls, text messages or emails requesting personal information, or to click a link
What to Do
Stop and ask questions.
Don’t send funds.
Never provide your account information or debit card PIN.
Seek financial advice/support.
Let Us Serve Your Needs
If you’re not already a member, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at one of our branches. We’re ready to give you the support you need!
