Opening a bank account as a student can be a significant step toward financial independence. Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, offers the GTCrea8 eSavers Account, specifically designed for students. This account caters to undergraduates and students in tertiary or professional institutions, providing a seamless banking experience with minimal requirements and attractive benefits. The GTCrea8 account is tailored to encourage a savings culture while offering access to digital banking channels, making it an ideal choice for young adults managing their finances.
Steps to Open a GTBank Student Account
Opening a GTBank GTCrea8 eSavers Account is straightforward, with options to apply online or in-branch. Below are the steps to guide you through the process:
1- Determine Your Account Level: The GTCrea8 eSavers Account is categorized into three levels—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—each with different transaction limits and requirements. For students without a Bank Verification Number (BVN), the Level 1 account is the most accessible, requiring only a National Identification Number (NIN).
2- Gather Required Documents: Depending on the account level, you’ll need specific documents:
- Level 1 Account: NIN or BVN, one passport photograph, and a valid school ID (e.g., school/departmental/association/library card or biodata page).
- Level 2 Account: Same as Level 1, with additional requirements like a utility bill (issued within the last three months) for verification.
- Level 3 Account: Typically requires a BVN, school ID, passport photograph, and utility bill. This level is recommended for students over 18 who want higher transaction limits.
3- Online Application:
- Visit the GTBank website or download the GTWorld mobile app from your device’s app store.
- Navigate to the account opening section and select the GTCrea8 eSavers Account.
- Fill out the account opening form with personal details such as your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, and occupation (student).
- Upload scanned copies of your required documents (e.g., NIN, passport photograph, school ID).
- Consent to GTBank’s data privacy policy by checking the relevant box.
- Submit the form and follow prompts to validate your application. You may need to contact GTBank’s customer service via email or phone for assistance, especially for a Level 1 account without a BVN.
4- In-Branch Application:
- Visit any GTBank branch with your documents.
- Request and complete the GTCrea8 account opening form.
- Submit the form along with your passport photograph, school ID, and NIN or BVN.
- An account officer will process your application, and you should receive your account number within 48 hours.
5- Activate Your Account: Once approved, you’ll receive your account details via email or SMS. You can activate your account by depositing funds (no minimum opening balance is required for GTCrea8) or linking it to digital banking platforms like GTWorld or *737# USSD banking.
6- Request a Debit Card: For Levels 2 and 3, you can request a free debit card (Visa or MasterCard) for cash withdrawals and payments at POS terminals or online.
Requirements for Opening a GTBank Student Account
The requirements vary based on the account level:
Level 1 Account:
- National Identification Number (NIN) or Bank Verification Number (BVN).
- One passport photograph.
- Valid school ID or biodata page from your institution.
- No utility bill required.
Level 2 Account:
- NIN or BVN.
- One passport photograph.
- Valid school ID.
- Utility bill (e.g., electricity or water bill) issued within the last three months.
Level 3 Account:
- BVN (mandatory).
- One passport photograph.
- Valid school ID.
- Utility bill issued within the last three months.
Students without a BVN can opt for a Level 1 account using their NIN, but enrolling for a BVN is recommended for future banking needs, as it’s mandatory for many financial transactions in Nigeria.
Benefits of the GTBank GTCrea8 eSavers Account
The GTCrea8 account offers several advantages tailored to students’ needs:
-
Zero Opening and Minimum Balance: No initial deposit or minimum balance is required, making it accessible for students with limited funds.
-
Free Digital Banking: Enjoy free access to internet banking, mobile banking (GTWorld app), and USSD banking (*737#) for transfers, bill payments, and airtime purchases.
-
No Transfer Charges: Free transfers to any bank via the GTWorld app or *737# for Levels 2 and 3 accounts.
-
Free Debit Card: Levels 2 and 3 account holders receive a free Visa or MasterCard debit card, accepted at ATMs, POS terminals, and online merchants displaying the Visa or MasterCard logo.
-
No SMS Charges: Free transaction alerts for Levels 2 and 3 accounts.
-
Higher Interest Rates: Earn competitive interest rates compared to regular savings accounts, encouraging a savings culture.
-
Discounts at Merchants: Enjoy discounts at select supermarkets, shopping malls, cinemas, and other outlets when using your GTCrea8 debit card.
-
Transaction Limits:
-
- Level 1: Maximum single deposit of N50,000 and cumulative balance of N300,000.
- Level 2: Maximum single deposit of N100,000 and cumulative balance of N500,000.
- Level 3: Higher limits, suitable for students over 18 needing more flexibility.
READ ALSO: How Students Can Apply for a Nigerian Passport (Easy Guide)
FAQs
Can I open a GTBank student account without a BVN?
Yes, you can open a GTCrea8 eSavers Level 1 account using your National Identification Number (NIN) instead of a BVN. However, a BVN is recommended for higher-tier accounts and broader banking services.
What is the minimum age to open a GTCrea8 account?
The account is designed for undergraduates and students in tertiary or professional institutions, typically aged 16 and above. Students under 18 may need parental consent for certain transactions.
How long does it take to open a GTBank student account?
Online applications are typically processed within 48 hours, and you’ll receive your account number via email or SMS. In-branch applications may be faster, depending on the branch’s efficiency.
Can I upgrade my GTCrea8 account level later?
Yes, you can upgrade from Level 1 to Level 2 or 3 by providing additional documents (e.g., BVN, utility bill) at a GTBank branch or through the GTWorld app.
Are there any monthly fees for the GTCrea8 account?
No, the GTCrea8 account has zero monthly service fees, making it cost-effective for students.
Can I use my GTCrea8 debit card for online purchases?
Yes, the free debit card (available for Levels 2 and 3) can be used for online purchases and payments at POS terminals or ATMs displaying the Visa or MasterCard logo.
What happens if I exceed the transaction limits?
For Level 1 and Level 2 accounts, you cannot deposit or hold more than the specified limits (N300,000 for Level 1, N500,000 for Level 2). To increase your limits, upgrade to a higher level or a standard savings account.
Can I open a GTCrea8 account if I’m not a student?
No, the GTCrea8 account is exclusively for students in tertiary or professional institutions. Non-students can explore other GTBank accounts, such as the Easy Savers or Current Account.
