The best banking choice for international students
UCU has the expertise to help you manage your finances no matter your situation. Open an account today, or book a virtual or in-person appointment with one of our certified experts. Experience what it means to be a credit union member-owner.
What makes University Credit Union a better choice than a bank like Bank of America, Chase, or Wells Fargo?
While banks and credit unions offer similar products and services, a bank's mission is to enrich its shareholders. In contrast, a credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution owned jointly by you, our member-owners. All earnings are funneled back into our financial cooperative and with your participation and relationship we provide member-owners unparalleled benefits that include the Best Rates in the Nation Guarantee.*
What you'll need to join
- Current Valid ID
Please provide ONE of the following:
- Unexpired Passport
- Government-issued driver's license (including foreign license)
- Consular ID (including Mexican Matricula ID)
- Birth Certificate
- Proof of Eligibility
This may be required in some instances. If requested, please provide ONE of the following:
- Student offer/acceptance letter
- Proof of .edu email address
- Class schedule
- Student/Work ID
- Offer letter of employment from eligible universities
- Alumni card
- Sponsor of existing member-owner (Immediate family: children, parents, grandparents, spouse/partner)
Once you've opened your membership with UCU, stop by one of our banking hubs to meet with a member of our team. We'll verify your US mailing address so we can mail your physical UCU debit card.
We're here to guide you on
your financial journey
If you have any questions or need additional assistance with your membership application, you can schedule a virtual appointment with a member of our team.
Resources from University Credit Union
Monthly Budget Guide
Having a budget for your finances can help ensure you are able to afford your next auto loan.
Learn More about Monthly Budget Guide 
Search for the right vehicle
Car buying just got easier with our auto buying services. Use one of our four services to make your next car purchase quick and easy.
Learn More about Search for the right vehicle 
Get financial counseling
Take advantage of this service to help you achieve your financial goals.
Learn More about Get financial counseling Giving our University Communities a financial advantage
University Credit Union offers membership to employees, students and alumni of UCLA, Pepperdine University, Loyola Marymount University, Santa Clara University, Saint Mary's College, UC Irvine, UC Davis, UC San Diego, Georgia Tech, University of Texas at Arlington, Mount St. Mary's University, Chabot College and Las Positas College, West Coast Conference Universities, The Big West Universities, Western Athletic Conference Universities, Southland Conference Universities, and other universities throughout California. UCU offers a variety of products and services including checking accounts, credit cards, home mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, commercial loans, insurance, investments, as well as digital banking.
University Credit Union offers membership to employees, students and alumni of UCLA, Pepperdine University, Loyola Marymount University, Santa Clara University, Saint Mary's College, UC Irvine, UC Davis, UC San Diego, Georgia Tech, University of Texas at Arlington, Mount St. Mary's University, Chabot College and Las Positas College, West Coast Conference Universities, The Big West Universities, Western Athletic Conference Universities, Southland Conference Universities, and other universities throughout California. UCU offers a variety of products and services including checking accounts, credit cards, home mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, commercial loans, insurance, investments, as well as digital banking.
*UCU guarantees that our lowest loan rate for cars, credit cards, consumer loans, and HELOCs are in the top 5% nationwide as measured in a monthly rate survey by Rate Watch, a part of S&P Global. Rates are subject to approval and based on an evaluation of credit history and other factors specific to your loan (such as loan term, credit score, loan amount, loan-to-value, and length of credit) and may be higher than the lowest rates advertised. Rates are subject to change at any time.
Our Story
We give everyone in the University Community a financial advantage.
Learn More about Our Story Find a location near you
You're covered from coast to coast with 30,000 surcharge free CO-OP ATMs and 5,000+ shared branches