Why Adro is the Best Banking Partner for International Students
Adro isn’t just about making banking easier—it’s about empowering international students with financial tools that set them up for success. With a hassle-free sign-up process, zero wire transfer fees, credit-building opportunities, and the ability to open an account before arriving, Adro removes the biggest financial roadblocks that international students face.
Understanding the U.S. Banking System
The U.S. banking system operates differently from many other countries. For most financial institutions, opening an account or obtaining a credit card requires a Social Security Number (SSN), a U.S. address, and often a credit history. However, as an international student just arriving in the country, you may not have any of these yet. This creates an unnecessary hurdle when trying to pay for essentials like rent, tuition, and groceries while building credit.
Why Credit Matters in the U.S.
In the U.S., having good credit is essential. A strong credit score affects everything from renting an apartment to getting better interest rates on loans and even applying for certain jobs. But for international students, building credit can be tough since traditional banks require an SSN to even start. With Adro, students can begin building their credit history right away. When you sign up for an Adro credit card, your purchases will be reported to credit bureaus and backdated once you obtain an SSN. This means you won’t be starting from scratch when it’s time to apply for housing, loans, or credit cards with lower acceptance rates.
The Advantage of a Credit Card Without an SSN
Most banks won’t issue a credit card without an SSN, which leaves international students stuck relying on debit cards or cash. This can limit financial flexibility and prevent students from building a U.S. credit history. Adro eliminates this issue by allowing students to apply for a no-annual-fee secured credit card without requiring an SSN upfront.
Additionally, Adro’s credit card comes with no international transaction fees, making it a smart choice for students who frequently make purchases in both U.S. dollars and their home currency.
Saving on Wire Transfer Fees
Transferring money internationally can be costly. Traditional banks typically charge around $15 per incoming wire transfer, which adds up quickly for students who frequently receive funds from home.
Adro removes this burden by charging $0 in inbound wire transfer fees, making it much more affordable to receive money from family abroad. This means students can keep more of their money for tuition, books, and living expenses instead of paying unnecessary fees.
Open an Account Before Arriving in the U.S.
One of the standout features of Adro is that students can open a U.S. checking and savings account before even stepping foot in the U.S. This ensures that once they arrive, they can immediately start using their accounts without delays. All that’s needed to get started is:
- A passport and a selfie for verification
- A student email or an approved visa
- A residential address (U.S. or non-U.S.)
- A phone number
- Being at least 18 years old
Adro’s Commitment to International Students
Adro isn’t just another financial institution—it’s a company founded by fintech experts who understand the challenges that international students face. With experience at companies like Mastercard, Amazon, and Uber, Adro’s leadership team is dedicated to building a better banking solution tailored to student needs. If you’re moving to the U.S. for school, Adro is the banking partner you can trust to make the transition smooth and stress-free.
To make this an even better experience for you, roam will deposit $50 into your Adro account once you have met the following requirements: Complete your Adro account setup, open a checking, savings or credit account, deposit $500 into any of these accounts and make 5 transactions for a total of at least $50. Sign up today and start your financial journey on the right foot!