The new ID cards will have debit card functions
The University of Cincinnati has announced a five-year partnership with PNC Bank to add debit card functions to newly redesigned student ID cards.
Incoming freshman this fall will automatically be given one of the new "Bearcat" ID cards, while they will be made available to current students starting in September.
Although linking bank accounts to the card will be optional, students that do link their accounts will be able to use the ID cards anywhere debit cards are accepted.
The current ID cards can be pre-loaded with cash for some purchases, but are only accepted at a limited number of off-campus merchants.
The cards will also continue to work as a library card and allow students to access school buildings.
As part of the partnership the bank will open a new on-campus branch in the fall, which will be staffed partially by students. PNC will also add nine new on-campus ATM’s.
The News-Record says the partnership will also help to expand the bank’s existing Virtual Wallet application, aimed at helping students responsibly manage their accounts. The program allows users to send out emails to parents or roommates, asking for reimbursements for certain purchases.
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