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College students are often experiencing some level of financial independence for the first time, and a savings account is a good first step. It can help you set aside money for the future as well as help your money make money.
Below are our picks for the best savings accounts for students.
Offer | APY | Minimum to Earn APY | Rating | Next Steps | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
SoFi Checking and Savings
Open Account for SoFi Checking and Savings
On SoFi's Secure Website.
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 4.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
up to 4.00%²
Rate info
You can earn the maximum APY by having Direct Deposit (no minimum amount required) or by making $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits every 30 days. See SoFi Checking and Savings rate sheet at: https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
Min. to earn: $0
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 4.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
$0
|
Open Account for SoFi Checking and Savings
On SoFi's Secure Website. |
|
2025 Award Winner
Capital One 360 Performance Savings
Open Account for Capital One 360 Performance Savings
On Capital One's Secure Website.
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 4.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 5.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
3.80%
Rate info
See Capital One website for most up-to-date rates. Advertised Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is variable and accurate as of Dec. 6, 2024. Rates are subject to change at any time before or after account opening.
Min. to earn: $0
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 4.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 5.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
$0
|
Open Account for Capital One 360 Performance Savings
On Capital One's Secure Website. |
|
CIT Savings Connect
Open Account for CIT Savings Connect
On CIT's Secure Website.
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 4.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 4.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
4.00%
Rate info
CIT Bank also offers the Platinum Savings account. Savers with $5,000 or more can get a 4.35% APY with Platinum Savings, but accounts with less than $5,000 get 0.25% with that account.
Min. to earn: $100 to open account
|
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 4.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 4.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
$100 to open account
|
Open Account for CIT Savings Connect
On CIT's Secure Website. |
|
Discover® Online Savings
Open Account for Discover® Online Savings
On Discover Bank's Secure Website.
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 5.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
3.75%
Min. to earn: $0
|
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating:
APY (50%): 5.00
Brand (20%): 5.00 Features (15%): 4.00 Fees (15%): 5.00 Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's how we got this rating: |
$0
|
Open Account for Discover® Online Savings
On Discover Bank's Secure Website. |
|
At Motley Fool Money, we rate savings accounts on a five-star scale (1 =poor, 5 = best). We evaluate all savings accounts across four main criteria: annual percentage yield (APY), brand and reputation, fees and minimum requirements, and perks that really make a difference -- think ATM access, linked checking accounts, or even branch access.
Our scores are weighted as:
Our aim is to maintain a balanced list featuring top-scoring products from reputable brands offering competitive APYs and standout features. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates bank accounts.
SoFi Checking and Savings
On SoFi's Secure Website.
On SoFi's Secure Website.
This account offers an easy-to-use app-based platform, as well as an excellent APY. It has no account fees³, and offers ATM access⁵ as well as unlimited transfers and withdrawals.
One potential drawback is that the account only comes as a combination of a checking and savings account. You can't open one or the other. And you'll need to set up a direct deposit to get the top APY on savings. However, the combination account makes it easy to seamlessly move money between the two.
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's more information about how we scored this product:
SoFi disclosure:
¹ New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period) OR $300 (with at least $5,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period). Cash bonus will be based on the total amount of Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 12/7/2023 and will be available through 1/31/2026. Full terms at sofi.com/banking. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.
SoFi members with Direct Deposit can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the 4.00% APY for savings (including Vaults). Members without Direct Deposit will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 12/3/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
² SoFi members with Direct Deposit or $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Only SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 12/3/24. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
³ We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
⁴ SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional
FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $2M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/terms
See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/receivingbanks
⁵ We’ve partnered with Allpoint to provide you with ATM access at any of the 55,000+ ATMs within the Allpoint network. You will not be charged a fee when using an in-network ATM, however, third-party fees incurred when using out-of-network ATMs are not subject to reimbursement. SoFi’s ATM policies are subject to change at our discretion at any time.
⁶ Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.
⁷ Overdraft Coverage is limited to $50 on debit card purchases only and is an account benefit available to customers with direct deposits of $1,000 or more during the current 30-day Evaluation Period as determined by SoFi Bank, N.A. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the“30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Members with a prior history of non-repayment of negative balances are ineligible for Overdraft Coverage.
Our pick for: Combined checking and savings account
Why we think this account is best for combined checking and savings accounts: The account lets you handle both your checking and savings needs in one account, while allowing up to 20 savings "vaults" for various goals. It also includes several appealing features for students, including no account fees and early access to direct deposit.
What to consider before opening an account: You'll need to set up direct deposit for overdraft protection or to earn the maximum APY. The direct deposit requirements for maximum APY could be tough for students to meet.
Capital One 360 Performance Savings
On Capital One's Secure Website.
On Capital One's Secure Website.
This account offers a rare combination of a truly high APY and in-person branch banking access. It has no minimum balance requirements or monthly fees. It could be a good fit for anyone, but is a standout for people who live near a branch.
One major downside is accessibility if you aren't near a branch, as you can't use an ATM card to make withdrawals. However, the account does integrate with the Capital One 360 Checking account (also an excellent product), and money can be easily transferred and withdrawn through that.
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's more information about how we scored this product:
Our pick for: High APY with no minimums
Why we think this account is best for high APY with no minimums: The account lets you earn an APY that's well above the national average with no minimum balance or opening deposit. There's also branch access (if you live near one) and Capital One Cafes, where you can get in-person banking help.
What to consider before opening an account: The account doesn't come with check-writing privileges or an ATM card. It could take you a couple days to access your funds if you link the account to a non-Capital One checking account.
CIT Savings Connect
On CIT's Secure Website.
On CIT's Secure Website.
The CIT Savings Connect offers one of the top APYs on our list, and has no monthly service fees. Accounts are easy to open, and it has a manageable $100 initial opening deposit requirement, creating a pretty low barrier for entry for students.
A downside is that the primary method of withdrawal is transferring to a linked checking account from another bank (there's no checking account to pair through CIT, nor is there a debit card).
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's more information about how we scored this product:
Our pick for: No fees
Why we think this account is best for no fees: The CIT Savings Connect account has a competitive APY and no monthly fees or opening fees. You can also link the account to an eChecking account with CIT for overdraft protection.
What to consider before opening an account: You'll need a deposit of at least $100 to open an account. Also, there's no branch access, as CIT is an online-only bank.
Discover® Online Savings
On Discover Bank's Secure Website.
On Discover Bank's Secure Website.
Discover is a well-known and trusted brand, and its high-yield savings account has a highly competitive APY and no account fees. It is also a standout when it comes to customer support, which is available 24/7.
For students, a big downside is no ATM access -- the main way to get money out is to transfer to a linked checking account.
Our ratings are determined by an editorially independent Ratings team. Here's more information about how we scored this product:
To qualify for Bonus: Apply for your first Discover Online Savings Account, enter Offer Code TMF924 at application, deposit into your Account a total of at least $15,000 to earn a $150 Bonus or deposit a total of at least $25,000 to earn a $200 Bonus. Qualifying deposit(s) may consist of multiple deposits and must post to Account within 45 days of account open date. Maximum bonus eligibility is $200.
What to Know: Offer not valid for existing or prior Discover savings customers, including co-branded, or affinity accounts. Eligibility is based on primary account owner. Account must be open when bonus is credited. Bonus will be credited to the account within 60 days of the account qualifying for the bonus. Bonus is subject to tax reporting. Offer ends 03/13/2025, 11:59 PM ET. Offer may be modified or withdrawn without notice. Due to new customer funding limits, you may wish to initiate fund transfers at your other institution. For information on funding your Account, see FAQs on Discover.com/Bank.
Our pick for: Sign-up bonus
Why we think this account is best for sign-up bonus: Sign-up bonuses are a lot more common for checking accounts than savings accounts, but Discover® Bank is one of the rare institutions that frequently offers a welcome bonus on top of a high APY.
What to consider before opening an account: Sign-up bonuses can change frequently, so make sure the account has other appealing features before you enroll. As with many other savings accounts, you won't get an ATM card.
The most important tip when it comes to choosing the best bank for your student savings account is to consider all of the pros and cons, not just the APY the bank is paying.
For one thing, it's important for students to realize that bank account APYs are not permanent and aren't guaranteed for any specific length of time. Just because a specific savings account has a higher yield than the others right now doesn't mean it will stay that way.
With that in mind, here are some tips for picking the best student savings account.
Technically, a student savings account is a bank account specifically designed for students to be able to save money they don't need for day-to-day expenses. And these look different, depending on the bank that offers them. Some might specifically require the account owner to be enrolled in a college or university, while others may simply require the account holder to be within a certain age range.
One of the biggest reasons student savings (and checking) accounts exist is to make it easier for younger people to start saving money, with features like lower deposit requirements, no monthly account fees, etc.
If a bank offers both student and non-student savings accounts, aside from the age restrictions, there are some other common differences. For example, if a bank charges a monthly account activity fee on its standard savings account unless certain requirements are met, it might not on student accounts. If a bank requires a minimum deposit to start an account, it might waive this requirement for students.
College is the first time many young adults are managing their own finances to one degree or another, and a savings account can help establish smart financial behaviors. While a checking account can help a college student budget their living expenses, a savings account can help them build up anemergency fund and show firsthand the power of making their money work for them.
The most important type of fee to watch for is a monthly maintenance fee. This is most common among branch-based banks and can be anywhere from $5 to $25 per month, depending on the bank and the nature of the account.
There are usually some ways to avoid a monthly maintenance fee, such as by maintaining a minimum account balance or setting up an automatic recurring transfer from your checking account. But the best way to avoid a monthly maintenance fee is to open an account at a bank that doesn't charge one at all.
Other common savings account fees include:
Some banks have a minimum deposit requirement, but most online banks don't. And if the account is specifically a student savings account, the minimum deposit requirement is typically lower than the bank requires for standard savings accounts.
Here are the 100+ financial institutions we've evaluated in our research:
Alliant, Ally, All America Bank, American First Credit Union, American Express National Bank, Arvest Bank, Aspiration, Axos Bank, B2 Bank, Bank of America, Bank5 Connect, Bank7, Barclays, Bask Bank, Betterment, Bluevine, BMO Bank, Bread Financial, Capital One, Carver Federal Savings Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, Chase, Chime, CIT, Citibank, Citizens, Citizens Savings Bank, Columbia Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Copper, Cross River Bank, Customers Bank, Discover® Bank, E*TRADEEdward Jones, EverBank, Fidelity, Fifth Third Bank, First Foundation Bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana, First National Bank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Flushing Bank, Freedom Bank, Generations Bank, GN Bank, Golden 1 Credit Union, Greenlight, Harborstone Credit Union, HSBC, Huntington Bank, Ivella, Kabbage by American Express, KeyBank, Laurel Road, LendingClub, Liberty Bank, Liberty Federal Credit Union, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Mercury, Municipal Credit Union, Mutual of Omaha, NASA Federal Credit Union, Nationwide Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, NBKC Bank, New York Community Bank, Northpointe Bank, Novo, OceanFirst Bank, Old National Bank, ONE Finance, OneUnited Bank, Oxygen, Pacific Western Bank, PNC Bank, Ponce Bank, Popular Direct, Presidential Bank, Prime Alliance Bank, Quontic, Radius, Raisin, Redneck Bank, Regions Bank, Relay, Republic Bank of Chicago, Revolut, Salem Five Bank, Sallie Mae, Santander Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Simple, SoFi®, Synchrony Bank, TAB Bank, TD Bank, Third Federal, Truist Bank, U.S. Bank, UFB, Upgrade, USAA, Valley Bank, Vanguard, Varo Bank, Vio Bank, Wealthfront, Wells Fargo, Western Alliance Bank, and Zeta.
Savings accounts can be great tools for college students, even if you don't have a ton of money to set aside. For one thing, gradually adding seemingly small amounts of money to a savings account can help build up an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Second, savings accounts can be a great way to visualize the power of compound interest and putting your money to work for you.
In most cases, online banks are where students will find the best savings account yields, lowest minimum deposit requirements, and best fee structures. Some banks with branches are starting to offer better savings products to remain competitive, so it's still worth looking at several options.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Motley Fool Money is 100% owned and operated by The Motley Fool. Our knowledgeable team of personal finance editors and analysts are employed by The Motley Fool and held to the same set of publishing standards and editorial integrity while maintaining professional separation from the analysts and editors on other Motley Fool brands.