To open an account at most banks you will need one or two valid forms of identification and a local mailing address to receive mail. A passport and a UC San Diego identification card are usually sufficient. At least $25 is usually required to open an account, and depending on your account there will be a monthly service charge unless a “minimum balance requirement” is maintained. Banks often have “hidden” fees so be sure to inquire about all possible fees.
Not all banks require a U.S. Social Security number to open an account, however, bank services may be limited (no online banking etc.) if you do not have a Social Security number.
Bank at UC San Diego

University Credit Union (UCU) is UC San Diego's official financial institution partner. Find out about banking services available to UC San Diego faculty, staff, and students through University Credit Union

BluePeak Credit Union offers a wide array of banking features at campus locations.
- Conveniently located on the first floor of the Gilman Parking Structure
- Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday
- Phone: (866) 873-4968
Full Service Banks Near UC San Diego
Bank of America
8813 Villa La Jolla Drive
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 552-4055
Chase
8807 Villa La Jolla Drive
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 554-0091
Union Bank of California
7807 Girard Avenue (downtown La Jolla)
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 551-4750
Wells Fargo
8819 Villa La Jolla Drive
La Jolla, CA 92037
(ATM)
Wells Fargo
4315 La Jolla Village Dr,
San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 250-2410
Bank of the West
4180 La Jolla Village Dr Ste. 150,
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 766-9600
Citi bank
8813 Villa La Jolla Dr
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 926-5626
Union bank
8715 Villa La Jolla Dr,
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 812-2100
First Citizens Bank
8910 University Center Ln Suite 130
San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 558-0088
City National Bank
4275 Executive Square Suite 101
La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 642-4900
ATMs are located behind the Price Center on campus and at the Student Center. Using an ATM at a bank different from the one you are a member of may cost $1-$5 each time it is used.
There are several full-service banks located within walking distance of the UC San Diego Medical Center in Hillcrest on University Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Avenue including Bank of America, Union Bank of California, and Chase.
ATM Safety Tips
An automated teller machine (ATM) provides a quick and convenient way to access your money. However, use caution and remember the following safety tips whenever you use an ATM:
- Be aware of the surroundings, particularly at night.
- Look for well-lit ATMs when doing a transaction at night.
- If you notice anything suspicious when approaching the ATM, return later or use another machine.
- Have your ATM card and transaction documents ready before you go to the ATM. When you can, fill out any deposit or withdrawal slips/envelopes before leaving your vehicle.
- If you notice anything suspicious during your transaction, immediately stop your transaction, and put your ATM card away and leave.
- Consider having another person accompany you to the ATM.
- Immediately report all crimes to the ATM operator and to local law enforcement officials.
- Stand close to the ATM and away from others in line to avoid detection of your PIN or other account information.
- Put your cash away as soon as the transaction is complete; count the cash later in the safety of your vehicle or home.
- Never give information to strangers at the ATM or to anyone over the phone. Be aware of fraud or people who pose as bank employees who try to get information from you. This information should only be discussed in person by you at the bank.
- Remember to keep your PIN a secret. Make sure not to write it on your ATM card or anywhere else in your wallet; thieves can easily figure out the reason for “hidden” or “secret” numbers.
From USE Credit Union ATM Safety Tips