As you settle into life at WashU, the information on this page is intended to help you navigate daily life as you choose a bank, select a cell phone provider, access the internet, explore on and off campus dining options, and send mail and packages within the U.S. and abroad. Read on to learn more.

Banking

The St. Louis area offers numerous commercial and private banking options. We recommend you explore various options to find which bank best fits your needs.

Choosing a bank

When choosing a bank, there are several factors to consider:

  • Bank locations and ATM services – Does the bank have ATM locations near your residence or work?
  • International services (for wiring money) – If you will be transferring funds to and from overseas, remember to ask about the details since some banks can accommodate this better than others.
  • Banking fees – Be sure to consider fees and policies for the types of transactions you will be making most frequently, such as wire transfers, direct deposits, ATM withdrawals, online banking, and bill payments.
  • No fee accounts and special offers – Some banks may eliminate fees based on a WashU affiliation, or if you arrange direct deposit of your paycheck or stipend, while others require a minimum balance.
  • Customer service and familiarity with international clients
  • Ease of opening an account upon arrival in the U.S.

Bank of America has locations that are walking distance from campus. It is also a good idea to ask friends and colleagues for recommendation.

Opening a bank account

When you open a bank account, most banks will require a standard list of documents. Because each bank has their own requirements, it would be best to speak with the customer service at the bank you choose to confirm what information and documents will be needed. Typically, the following will be required:

  • 1 to 2 forms of photo identification (such as your passport, driver’s license)
  • proof of legal status (such as your F-1 or J-1 visa and I-20 or DS-2019)
  • proof of U.S. address (such as a utility bill with your name and address, a U.S. driver’s license showing your correct address, a rental lease)

In most cases, a Social Security number (SSN) is not required to open a bank account. If the bank asks you for an SSN, inform the staff helping you that you are an international student or scholar and that you do not qualify for an SSN.

Cellphone services

All major U.S. cellular services offer coverage in the St. Louis area including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and others. Selecting a phone plan may require some research. Check with other students and colleagues, particularly those from your home country, for suggestions. Keep in mind that your cellphone from your home country may or may not be compatible with U.S. cellphone service providers, so we recommend that you check before choosing one.

Internet

On-campus

WashU offers wired and wireless networks to connect to the internet while on campus. The options and connection details are available from WashU’s Department of Information Technology.

Off-campus

Coffee shops, restaurants and bars often offer free WiFi, however you are usually expected to make a purchase. To obtain internet service in an off-campus residence, you will need to consult with a provider in the area. Cell phone providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon often offer the option to bundle a cell phone plan with residential internet service.

Dining and groceries

On-campus dining

For food options on the Danforth Campus, visit the WashU Dining Services website.

For food options on the Medical Campus, visit School of Medicine Dining Services webpage.

Restaurants

In addition to Google, several websites offer restaurant listings, reviews, maps, menus and information about dining options in the St. Louis area.

  • Yelp offers reviews and information about restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses.
  • Sauce Magazine offers articles, reviews and information about the St. Louis culinary and entertainment scene.
  • Visit the Loop has a section providing a list of restaurants in the area known as “The Loop” (Delmar Blvd, close to WUSTL Danforth campus)
  • CWEScene has a section providing a list of restaurants in the Central West End neighborhood (close to WUSTL Medical School campus)
Grocery stores

There are several grocery stores near campus in addition to a few on-campus markets. The following are within walking or biking distance:

Mail services

If you need to send packages or mail, there are several options in the St. Louis area.