Best student savings accounts

Savings accounts allow you to store cash while also growing interest. Want to open a student savings account? Scroll down, compare and find the best account for you​.

Peter Terlato
Senior Money Writer
JP Pelosi
Managing editor
Fact Checked
green piggy bank
Mozo may receive payment if you click products on our site. We don’t compare the entire market, but you can search our database of 252 savings accounts using the filters.
Last updated 13 January 2025 Important disclosures

Savings account comparisons on Mozo

  • Promoted

    Savings Maximiser

    Maximum rate
    5.50 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $100,000)
    Deposit $1,000 into a personal ING account, make 5 eligible transactions with a linked Orange Everyday account and grow the balance each month.
    Standard rate
    0.55 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    For a limited time, earn $100 cashback when you open an ING Orange Everyday and Savings Maximiser account. Offer is available until 15 February, 2025 (T&Cs apply). Access a great variable rate when you grow your balance each month, in addition to other eligibility criteria. Mozo Experts Choice Awards Everyday & Savings Bank of the Year winner for 2024.^

  • Promoted

    Savings+Bonus

    Maximum rate
    5.00 % p.a.
    (for $1 to $250,000)
    Minimum $100 monthly deposit and no withdrawals to earn bonus interest each month.
    Standard rate
    2.00 % p.a.
    (for $1 to $250,000)
    Go to site

    Enjoy bonus interest when you deposit $100 or more per month and make no withdrawals. Access your money at any time via internet banking or our mobile app. Maximum balance $250,000 to receive bonus interest.

  • Savings Maximiser

    Maximum rate
    5.50 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $100,000)
    Deposit $1,000 into a personal ING account, make 5 eligible transactions with a linked Orange Everyday account and grow the balance each month.
    Standard rate
    0.55 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    For a limited time, earn $100 cashback when you open an ING Orange Everyday and Savings Maximiser account. Offer is available until 15 February, 2025 (T&Cs apply). Access a great variable rate when you grow your balance each month, in addition to other eligibility criteria. Mozo Experts Choice Awards Everyday & Savings Bank of the Year winner for 2024.^

  • Savings Accelerator

    Maximum rate
    5.40 % p.a.
    (for $150,000 to $500,000)
    New customers receive an introductory bonus 0.70% p.a. variable kick starter rate for the first 4 months on balances up to $500,000.
    Standard rate
    2.85 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $50,000)
    Go to site

    Enjoy the flexibility to access your funds with no monthly deposit requirements or lock-in terms. No ING fees to pay. Mozo Experts Choice Awards Everyday & Savings Bank of the Year winner for 2024.^

  • Online Savings Account

    Maximum rate
    5.20 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Bonus rate for the first 3 months from account opening.
    Standard rate
    1.00 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Complement your banking with an introductory bonus rate offer. Earn additional bonus interest for the first 3 months. No minimum monthly deposit required to earn interest. No account keeping fees. No minimum opening balance. Manage your account 24/7 using the app.

  • Savvy Saver Account

    Maximum rate
    5.10 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $100,001)
    Minimum $500 deposited into linked transaction account, and 5 Visa Card transactions from that account
    Standard rate
    0.55 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Earn a great variable rate each month when you meet the criteria. No need to lock your savings away. Move your money in and out and still earn interest. Transfer or make payments using our mobile app or internet banking. No minimum balance required. Rest easy knowing total deposits up to $250,000 are protected by the Financial Claims Scheme.

  • Savings+Bonus

    Maximum rate
    5.00 % p.a.
    (for $1 to $250,000)
    Minimum $100 monthly deposit and no withdrawals to earn bonus interest each month.
    Standard rate
    2.00 % p.a.
    (for $1 to $250,000)
    Go to site

    Enjoy bonus interest when you deposit $100 or more per month and make no withdrawals. Access your money at any time via internet banking or our mobile app. Maximum balance $250,000 to receive bonus interest.

  • Bonus Saver

    Maximum rate
    5.00 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Standard rate
    0.50 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Bonus interest for the first four months from the account opened date. No minimum balance required. No monthly or ongoing fees or withdrawal penalties. Manage your money easily via phone or online banking or via the BCU Bank app.

  • Hi Saver

    Maximum rate
    5.00 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Bonus rate for the first 4 months from account opening
    Standard rate
    0.50 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Earn bonus interest on your savings for the first four months from the date you open the account, even if you make withdrawals. Transfer or make payments using our mobile app or internet banking. No minimum balance required. Rest easy knowing total deposits up to $250,000 are protected by the Financial Claims Scheme.

  • Bonus Saver Account

    Maximum rate
    5.00 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $250,000)
    Deposit at least $20 each month and make 5 Visa Debit transactions with a linked Glide account.
    Standard rate
    0.05 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Open a Bonus Saver Account in under 5 minutes. There are no fees to pay or penalties for withdrawing money. Get a seamless personalised insights and online statements via the My State Bank app.

  • MoneyMAX Account

    Maximum rate
    4.70 % p.a.
    (for $1 and over)
    Standard rate
    4.70 % p.a.
    (for $1 and over)
    Go to site

    Unlimited access 24/7 via Banking App, Phone & Internet Banking. Interest is calculated daily and paid monthly. No transaction fees or monthly service fees. No minimum balance or withdrawal restrictions. Online access only.

  • SwiftSaver Account

    Maximum rate
    4.50 % p.a.
    (for $0 to $250,000)
    Minimum deposit of $10 and no withdrawals in the month
    Standard rate
    0.05 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Earn bonus interest each month by depositing $10 or more and making no withdrawals. A great on-going rate. No monthly fees to pay. Open up to five accounts to make saving for different goals simple. No minimum balance required. Rest easy knowing total deposits up to $250,000 are protected by the Financial Claims Scheme.

  • EasySaver Account

    Maximum rate
    3.70 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Standard rate
    3.70 % p.a.
    (for $0 and over)
    Go to site

    Enjoy a straight-forward variable savings rate with the Bendigo Bank EasySaver Account. Watch your savings grow without any monthly service fees to pay. Minimum opening balance of just $1. e-banking and phone banking anywhere, anytime. Branch access Australia wide, with 2 free branch withdrawals per month. No card access but transact online via e-banking or the Bendigo Bank app, through phone banking or at any branch.

Showing 11 results from 252 savings accounts. Use the filters to see more

Interest rates change regularly - stay informed.

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Knowledge Hub

Why open a student savings account?

When you're a student, your budget may be pretty tight, which is why getting the best return on your money is important. Rather than keeping your cash in an everyday account - which earns little to no interest - a high interest savings account can help you increase your account balance. Most savings accounts are available digitally, meaning you can transfer money almost instantly if you need access fast, or use it as an emergency fund.

What kinds of savings accounts are there?

Accounts with introductory rates

Some providers offer savings accounts with an introductory rate. This means that for a set period of time you’ll be given a higher interest rate on your savings before switching over to the ongoing base rate.

Accounts with bonus rates

Savings accounts with a bonus rate will usually require some kind of criteria to be met, such as regular monthly deposits or a minimum number of transactions on a linked account. Keep in mind that these conditions may vary depending on the provider and account type, so be sure to research your options before committing.

Accounts with base rates

The base rate of a savings account is the standard interest rate that is offered for keeping your money in the provided account. The base rate will generally be lower than any bonus or introductory rates and will usually be the rate the account reverts to if any necessary bonus interest conditions aren’t met.

What's the best student savings account?

Not sure what to look for? Generally, there are some advantageous features that a lot of the best savings accounts possess that you can keep an eye out for. These include:

No account fees: Student accounts generally have no fees which, in the long run, can add up to a bunch of extra savings.

Bonus rate: Student savings accounts offering a healthy bonus rate might be preferable if you want to earn the highest interest on your savings that you can and you’re confident you can meet the monthly conditions imposed.

Competitive high interest rate: Comparing a range of different accounts to find the highest available rate can help you get the best deal possible. Use the table above to compare accounts.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a student savings account

While savings accounts can possess a number of beneficial features, there are some things to bear in mind when you’re considering which account you want to open:

Minimum deposits: Some accounts require that you have and/or maintain a minimum balance.

Bonus rate conditions: As mentioned above, while a bonus rate account may offer higher interest than other providers, it may involve certain conditions that you might struggle to meet in order to maintain the highest rate.

Other restrictions: Some accounts may require you to pay account fees or be an existing customer, with an established transaction account. Other accounts may impose withdrawal limits, age limits and require you to periodically provide proof of your status as a student.

FAQs

Who is eligible for a student savings account?

Eligibility usually requires you to be a full-time student, often under a specific age (e.g. under 25). Banks may ask for proof of enrolment, such as a student ID or enrolment confirmation. However, these conditions are not the same at all institutions. Check requirements with your preferred provider before signing up for an account.

Students savings accounts vs regular savings accounts?

Student savings accounts typically have lower or no monthly fees, competitive interest rates and incentives for regular deposits. Regular savings accounts may have more general features and not offer the same level of flexibility or incentives tailored to students.

Another significant difference is eligibility criteria. Student savings accounts usually have age limits or require proof of student status, such as a valid student ID or enrolment confirmation. While students may enjoy tailored benefits, they’ll likely transition to a regular savings account as their financial situation evolves, such as after graduation.

What happens to your account when you stop being a student?

Many banks require you to transition your student savings account to a regular savings account once you no longer meet the eligibility criteria. This transition usually involves reviewing the account's terms and conditions, which may include changes to fees and interest rates.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t access introductory rates and bonus rates from either your current bank or another provider. It’s helpful to compare your options before selecting the account that best fits your circumstances.

What other types of accounts are available for students?

Students may want to open a transactional bank account for everyday use. A debit card or credit card can be a helpful money management tool for students. If you're looking to borrow money for a larger purchase, some lenders in Australia offer personal loans for students.

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Peter Terlato
Peter Terlato
Senior Money Writer

Peter Terlato is a content writer with nearly 15 years journalism experience. He's written extensively about finance, politics, technology, travel and lifestyle. His work has appeared in a number of publications including RateCity, finder, Business Insider and ETB Travel News. At Mozo Peter publishes news, guides and product pages across an array of topics; from credit cards and the cash rate to car loans and capital gains.

JP Pelosi
JP Pelosi
RG146
Managing editor

Managing Editor Jean-Paul (JP) Pelosi leads the editorial team, with over 20 years of experience writing for top outlets like The Guardian, The Sydney Morning Herald and News.com.au. JP's expertise in home loans and property is complemented by his rich background at major financial firms including CommBank, Suncorp and Amex. Holding a Master's in Communications and international experience in journalism, JP combines passion with skill and has a unique ability to apply this editorial experience and financial knowledge to advise the team on how to create engaging financial content for Australian consumers.

Brands we compare

We compare products from the following well-known brands and many more... See all

  • MyState Bank brand logo
  • ING brand logo
  • First Option Bank brand logo
  • Unity Bank brand logo
  • BCU Bank brand logo
  • Newcastle Permanent brand logo
  • Bendigo Bank brand logo
  • P&N Bank brand logo
  • MyState Bank brand logo
  • ING brand logo
  • First Option Bank brand logo
  • Unity Bank brand logo
  • BCU Bank brand logo
  • Newcastle Permanent brand logo
  • Bendigo Bank brand logo
  • P&N Bank brand logo
  • MyState Bank brand logo
  • ING brand logo
  • First Option Bank brand logo
  • Unity Bank brand logo
  • BCU Bank brand logo
  • Newcastle Permanent brand logo
  • Bendigo Bank brand logo
  • P&N Bank brand logo
  • MyState Bank brand logo
  • ING brand logo
  • First Option Bank brand logo
  • Unity Bank brand logo
  • BCU Bank brand logo
  • Newcastle Permanent brand logo
  • Bendigo Bank brand logo
  • P&N Bank brand logo

Savings account customer reviews

Macquarie Savings Account
Overall 5/10
Good interest rate, no hoops, App needs improving

Macquarie offer a good interest rate with no hoops to jump through. However the App is a bit clunky and boring and the font too small.

Read full review

Macquarie offer a good interest rate with no hoops to jump through. However the App is a bit clunky and boring and the font too small.

Price
7/10
Features
7/10
Convenience
5/10
Less
Maree, Queensland, reviewed 26 days ago
ANZ Plus Savings Account
Overall 3/10
App is great, the condition changes Not!

I love the ANZ plus App but am very disappointed they have now changed their conditions which is not what I signed up for. This has caused me to move my money elsewhere as I have lost trust:

Read full review

I love the ANZ plus App but am very disappointed they have now changed their conditions which is not what I signed up for. This has caused me to move my money elsewhere as I have lost trust:

Price
6/10
Features
5/10
Customer service
6/10
Convenience
7/10
Trust
3/10
Less
Maree, Queensland, reviewed 26 days ago
Westpac Savings Account
Overall 9/10
Very friendly staff at branches and online banking

Very friendly staff at branches and online banking is user friendly and not too complicated

Read full review

Very friendly staff at branches and online banking is user friendly and not too complicated

Price
10/10
Features
10/10
Customer service
10/10
Convenience
10/10
Trust
10/10
Less
Daniel, South Australia, reviewed 26 days ago

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