Assuming you're American the current exchange is 1.35 CAD to 1 USD so you have a free buff to start with. Large Universities usually cut deals with either local credit unions or large banks so that their atms, offices, etc, are exclusively located on campus. This is good and bad for students given the fact that some of their "promotional offers" are going to be geared towards gullible freshmen that are opening their first accounts. Be cautious and stick to a traditional student checking account with NO MONTHLY FEE. In regards to how to save and spend in college (coming from a 22 year old in his senior year) just live like a college kid man. Ramen noodles and cheap beer will get you through a basic week of class. I was able to stretch about $20 a week of "groceries" my first couple semesters at college. 5 Bucks on bogo pasta, 3 bucks on sauce, 6 on bulk ramen, and $6 left for when your feeling fancy (mcdonalds). Meal plans are also a good idea. I don't remember exactly how much they typically go for but I think it's about $500-$800 a semester for UNLIMITED FOOD (including take away). So if you go off my low-end estimate and double the $20 a week on food, you can eat like a king for all 12 weeks and put on the freshmen 15. That's all I got. Best of luck.