As a student in Nigeria, having a bank account is essential for managing finances and building financial literacy. One of the most popular student accounts is GTBank’s GTCrea8 account. However, not all students have a Bank Verification Number (BVN) yet.
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to open a GTBank student account without a BVN. You’ll learn about the different account types and requirements. Common queries are also addressed to boost understanding.
By the end of reading, you’ll feel confident signing up for an account completely online. Let’s get started on setting up your GTBank student account without physically visiting a branch.
Why Open a GTBank Student Account?
There are various benefits to choosing GTBank’s GTCrea8 student account:
- Convenient Services: Free debit card, reduced transfer fees, and other perks tailored for students.
- Build Financial Skills: Opportunity to learn account management like saving, and budgeting using a safe account.
- Future Proofing: The account can transition to full savings accounts post-graduation.
- Requirement for Scholarships: Some educational funding programs require proof of active bank accounts.
- Easy Access: The account can be opened remotely without visiting physical branches.
- Acceptance: GTBank is a leading bank with wide acceptance for transactions nationwide.
Overall, it provides an excellent first banking experience for the tertiary education level.
Contacting GTBank Without a BVN
The initial step is to get in touch with the bank regarding opening options available without a BVN:
- Email: Send a detailed request to customercare@gtbank.com explaining your situation.
- Call: Dial 01-2701700 or +234-1-2701700 from Mondays to Fridays between 8 AM to 5 PM.
- WhatsApp: Message 08063597059 directly for fast assistance anytime.
- Mention you’re a student wanting to open an account fully online.
- Request call back or WhatsApp assistance from an assigned officer.
Clear communication prepares the bank to guide you seamlessly.
Account Officer Assistance via WhatsApp
Once contacted, GTBank will assign a specific officer to your request:
- Officer will call or WhatsApp to understand requirements over call/chat.
- Ask any questions and clarify doubts regarding available options upfront.
- Officer shares application package and guides on filling requirements accurately.
- Return complete documents to assigned officer via WhatsApp for processing.
- Expect account number update within 2 working days via same channels.
Consistent communication makes remote enrollment stress-free.
GTBank Student Account Types
Let’s examine the 3 GTCrea8 account levels in detail:
1. GTCrea8 eSavers Level 1
- Requires NIN or BVN, passport photo
- Max ₦50,000 receipt, ₦300,000 balance
- ATM card available
2. GTCrea8 eSavers Level 2
- Requires NIN/BVN, school ID, utility bill
- Max ₦100,000 receipt, ₦500,000 balance
- ATM withdrawal limit ₦100k daily
3. GTCrea8 eSavers Level 3
- Requires NIN/BVN, student ID, utility bill
- Max ₦1million receipt, unlimited balance
- ATM limit ₦100k daily
Selecting right level depends on usage type and tenure.
Recommended GTCrea8 Level
Out of the options, the most ideal level to choose without BVN is:
1. GTCrea8 eSavers Level 1
Reasons being:
- Only requires valid NIN which students must possess
- Sufficient transaction limits for part-time use
- No added documents like utility bills needed
- Can easily upgrade to higher levels later with BVN
While Level 3 provides unlimited balance, strict document requirements are not suitable when opening remotely without visiting a branch initially.
Level 1 strikes the perfect balance and is most straightforward to enroll in such a scenario.Its limits also do not impose constraints for average student banking needs.
GTBank Student Account Requirements
Now that the recommended Level 1 is established, its key requirements are:
- Valid National Identification Number (NIN)
- Passport photograph (can be taken on phone)
- Basic information – Name, DOB, gender, address details
- Proof of admission (can submit after account opening online)
Having these simple documents in hand lets the process proceed smoothly entirely via online means.
Opening a GTBank Student Account Online
Time to outline the step-by-step process:
- Contact the bank and get an assigned officer (methods discussed earlier)
- The officer will share the application form via WhatsApp
- Fill the form with the required details and attach a photo, send it back
- Provide proof of admission to the officer after the account is opened
- The officer will notify you once the account is created and share the details
- The account can now be managed via GTBank internet/mobile banking
Following these easy steps enables remotely opening the account without hassles.
Optimizing Your GTBank Student Account
To maximize benefits, consider the following tips:
- Set online banking login credentials securely
- Register a nominated phone number for alerts and e-statements
- Link account to SchoolFees notifications for tuition fee deposits
- Familiarize yourself with transferring funds to/from other accounts
- Save benefits flyers shared by the bank for special offers
- Reach out to the assigned officer for any queries/upgrades needed
Proactively managing the account aids long-term financial management.
Common Queries Answered
Let’s address some frequently asked questions:
- Can the account be opened below 18 years? No, the minimum age is 18 years for full remote access.
- What happens after graduation? The account seamlessly transitions to a regular savings account.
- How to update details like address later? Contact the assigned officer via the listed contact details.
- Can funds be saved internationally? No, only local Naira transactions are permitted for initial student accounts.
- How to check the account balance? Via mobile/internet banking or by messaging the assigned officer.
Clearing uncertainties results in better banking experiences.
Conclusion
And with this comprehensive guide, the process of opening a GTBank student account fully online and without physical enrollment has been simplified to the maximum extent. Students can now sign up for this valuable service remotely while studying anywhere nationwide. Feel free to reach out for any additional clarifications needed to navigate this opportunity securely.
Wishing you all the very best with utilizing this account to build strong financial habits right from the start of your educational journey!