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Student and Youth Resources

Banking for students and youth

Mainstreet offers banking options designed to support students and youth at every stage, from a child’s first savings account to student banking and education savings plans.

With convenient digital tools, flexible accounts, and advice from local advisors, students and families can easily manage everyday spending, build savings, and prepare for the future.

Everyday Student Banking

Manage everyday spending with chequing accounts designed to support student life.

  • Free chequing accounts for those under 26.

  • Shop online or in-store with a Mainstreet Debit Mastercard®

  • Access the Ding Free ATM network across Canada

  • Online, mobile, and in-branch banking options.

Student Credit Cards

Student-friendly credit cards help you begin building credit responsibly with tools to track your spending.

  • Build credit history with responsible use.

  • Low and no-fee options and manageable rates.

  • Cash back and rewards on eligible everyday purchases.

  • Simple tools to help track spending and custom insights

Borrow for Your Education

Flexible borrowing options can help cover tuition and living expenses while you focus on your studies.

  • Access funds as needed to help cover tuition and living expenses.

  • Interest-only payments while you’re in school.

  • Flexible repayment options after graduation

  • Advisor guidance to help you choose the right option

Save for Your Education

RESPs help families save for post-secondary education with tax advantages and government grants.

  • Tax-deferred growth while funds remain in the plan.

  • Access to government grants, including the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG).

  • Contributions can be made over time to fit your budget.

  • Advisor guidance to help choose the right savings plan

Advice to help students and families plan ahead

Choosing the right accounts and financial tools early can help build strong financial habits for the future.

Mainstreet advisors work with students and families to help manage everyday banking, build credit responsibly, and plan ahead for education and long-term financial goals.

Whether you're opening your first account or preparing for post-secondary education, we're here to help you choose the options that fit your needs.

Graduate wearing a cap and gown smiling during a graduation ceremony.

Tools to help students manage money

Debit Mastercard access

Make secure purchases online or in-store and pay directly from your chequing account.

Mobile and online banking

Check balances, transfer funds, and manage accounts anytime using our secure digital banking tools.

Ding Free ATM network

Access more than 4,800 surcharge-free ATMs across Canada.

Advisor support

Get support from a Mainstreet advisor whenever you need it. From budgeting to longer term investment planning, our advisors will tailor their advice to your needs and goals.

Mainstreet banking tools make it easy for students and families to manage everyday finances. From secure debit payments and digital banking to convenient ATM access, our tools help you stay in control of your money wherever life takes you.

Need help getting started? A Mainstreet advisor can help you choose the accounts and tools that fit your needs.

More resources for students and youth

Students with backpacks review a laptop together.

Your Guide to Student Banking: Accounts, Credit Cards, Loans and More

7 min read
A family smiles and gathers around their eating toddler in a kitchen.

How RESPs Work: Building a Strong Financial Future for Your Child

7 min read
A woman sits holding a credit card and cellphone.

Credit Card Basics: Understanding How Credit Cards Work

7 min read

Ready to Get Started?

Student life comes with enough challenges. Banking doesn’t need to be one of them.