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Students should take all factors into account when choosing a bank account - not just the "freebies" it offers - according to one finance expert.
Brian Capon, head of media relations for the British Bankers' Association, said: "You've got to be a bit careful. There are freebies around and it may well be that they're certainly useful to you, but you've got to look at the overall package - don't just concentrate on freebies."
Mr Capon also commented on how student banking overdraft schemes can differ substantially.
He explained: "Some banks run a scheme where for the first year you've got an overdraft of a thousand, the second year it goes up to £1,500 and the third year it goes up to £2000.
"Others may well say right at the beginning that your limit is, say, £1,500 and you've got to stick with that all the way through your studies."
With most student bank accounts now offering interest-free overdraft facilities and extra incentives like free railcards, it also seems sensible to take issues of convenience into account.
Mr Capon highlighted the importance to students of having easy access to a branch of their bank while at university, even when living off campus.
There is much competition among the major UK high street banks to gain students' custom.
Natwest this week launched its 2007 student banking package, which included a free Young Persons Railcard and a free webcam and microphone for students applying online before October 31st.
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