Are you someone who sees the story behind the numbers? Do balance sheets, budgets, and business forecasts spark your curiosity? If so, the UK could be the perfect launchpad for your future in accounting and finance.
Renowned for its world-class education system, the UK blends centuries of financial expertise with access to some of the most dynamic markets on the planet. Whether you dream of advising Fortune 500 companies or managing global investment portfolios, the UK offers the ideal environment to sharpen your skills and build a career that truly counts.
The UK, land of top universities, doesn’t just teach finance, it lives it. London, one of the oldest financial centres in the world, has shaped global trade and commerce for centuries. Today, alongside powerful financial hubs like Edinburgh and Leeds, it continues to lead the way.
In 2022, the UK financial system boasted assets worth over £27 trillion. In 2023 alone, its financial and insurance services sector contributed £208.2 billion to the economy, nearly 9% of the country’s total economic output. This thriving ecosystem attracts top talent from across the globe, creating a dynamic, multicultural learning environment for students.
Studying Accounting and Finance in one of the prestigious UK universities opens the door to a wide variety of career pathways, with access to diverse financial markets, respected institutions, and international regulatory frameworks. It is not just about numbers; it is about strategy, innovation, and real-world problem-solving. From day one, you will be immersed in how money moves the world.
At the undergraduate level, students gain a strong foundation in core topics such as accounting principles, financial management, taxation, and auditing. They will also sharpen analytical and decision-making skills that are essential in today’s fast-paced financial world. For those aiming to specialise further, postgraduate programs offer exciting pathways in areas like investment banking, risk management, accounting analytics, and corporate finance.
What makes these UK degrees stand out is their ability to be tailored. Students can choose modules that reflect their ambitions, whether that is climbing the corporate ladder, becoming a chartered accountant, or breaking into high-stakes investment sectors. The flexibility, combined with access to leading academic minds and cutting-edge financial practice, ensures you graduate career-ready and confident.
In short, if you are looking for a future where you can help shape economies, advise global businesses, or launch financial innovations, the UK is your launchpad.
Why Choose the UK for Accounting and Finance Studies?
- Learn from the Best Minds in the Business
When you study Accounting and Finance in the UK, you are not just reading textbooks; you are learning from global thought leaders. Home to prestigious institutions like the London School of Economics (LSE), Oxford, and Cambridge, the UK offers world-class teaching built on cutting-edge research and real-world application. With over 250 institutions and 4,000+ courses, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to expert-led learning.
- A Global Passport to Career Success
More than a qualification; a UK degree is a global career passport. UK programs are often accredited by international accounting bodies such as ACCA, CIMA, and ICAEW, helping you fast-track your journey to becoming a chartered accountant or finance professional anywhere in the world.
- Real-World Experience Built Into Your Course
Thanks to strong industry partnerships, many UK universities offer internships, placements, and even a year in industry. These hands-on opportunities allow you to put theory into practice, build your CV, and step into the job market with confidence and real-world experience.
- Skills That Make You Future-Ready
UK accounting and finance degrees focus not only on numbers but on nurturing analytical thinking, strategic decision-making, communication, and entrepreneurship. You will walk away with technical expertise plus transferable skills that employers value across every industry.
- High Demand, High Value Careers
The world needs finance experts now more than ever. With financial systems growing more complex, the demand for skilled professionals in accounting, auditing, and financial management continues to soar. Whether it is fintech, investment banking, or corporate strategy, your skills will be in high demand.
- Choose Your Path — Any Industry, Any Sector
Finance is the backbone of every business. From fashion to football clubs, tech startups to international NGOs, every industry needs accountants and financial managers. Your degree will open doors in diverse sectors, letting you align your passion with your profession.
- A Culturally Diverse Learning Environment
With over 55,000 international students studying business-related subjects in the UK, you will be part of a rich, multicultural classroom. This exposure not only enhances your learning experience but helps you build an international network, a priceless asset in today’s global economy.
- Flexible Courses and Joint Degrees
Want to mix numbers with marketing? Or pair accounting with a foreign language? Many UK universities offer joint honours degrees, allowing you to customise your studies. Whether you want to become a finance-savvy entrepreneur or a multilingual accountant, there is a course for you.
- Study Abroad and Global Opportunities
Many Accounting and Finance programs in the UK offer a year abroad or international placement. This is your chance to study in a new country, gain a broader view of global finance, explore other cultures, and even pick up a new language, all while earning your degree.
- Excellent Graduate Outcomes
Accounting and Finance graduates in the UK enjoy strong employability, with many stepping into professional roles within six months of graduation. The combination of academic excellence, practical training, and strong industry ties means you will be well-equipped to launch a successful career right after university.
Whether you are dreaming of boardrooms in London, hedge funds in New York, or launching your own startup, studying Accounting and Finance in the UK could be your smartest investment yet.
Dreaming of a global career in Accounting and Finance? At ScholarshipKart, we help you shortlist top UK universities, select industry-relevant courses, and align your academic path with professional goals in banking, audit, or financial strategy. Connect with our specialised counsellors today and let’s build your financial future from the foundation up!
Top UK Universities for Accounting and Finance
According to the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025, the Top 10 UK Universities to study Accounting and Finance are:
London School of Economics and Political Science
University of Warwick
University College London
University of Strathclyde
City, University of London
King's College London
University of Bath
University of Glasgow
Durham University
University of Liverpool
Types of Accounting & Finance Degrees in the UK
Accounting and Finance may sound like a world of spreadsheets and statements, but in reality, it’s a gateway to understanding how global organisations function, grow, and lead. In the UK, one of the world’s top destinations for financial education, you will find a wide variety of tailored courses designed to transform curious minds into strategic thinkers and financial leaders.
Whether you are just starting out or aiming to specialise at an advanced level, here’s a guide to the types of Accounting and Finance courses available in the UK and how each one can help shape your future.
1. Bachelor’s in Accounting: Building the Foundation
This three-year undergraduate degree is your stepping stone into the financial world. Designed to offer a comprehensive grounding in key areas, a Bachelor of Accounting explores everything from taxation and auditing to business law and ethics.
What you will learn:
Financial Accounting – Learn to prepare, analyse, and interpret financial statements that drive business decisions.
Management Accounting – Understand budgeting, cost control, and financial planning from an internal business perspective.
Auditing & Assurance – Dive into audit frameworks, evidence collection, and risk assessment.
Taxation – Navigate through the UK's tax system including income tax, VAT, and corporate tax.
Business Law – Learn how legal frameworks impact accounting practices and organisational decisions.
Economics & Business Ethics – Explore how markets work, and the role of sustainability and ethics in today’s corporate world.
Ideal for students with a passion for numbers and a desire to enter public or corporate accounting roles.
2. Master’s in Accounting: Deepen Your Expertise
Ready to take your skills to the next level? A Master’s in Accounting in the UK is typically a one-year full-time course that offers in-depth insights into the complexities of accounting, finance, and corporate governance.
Core focus areas include:
Advanced Financial Reporting – Tackle complex topics like business combinations, international standards, and financial instruments.
Corporate Reporting & Analysis – Analyse consolidated accounts and performance indicators.
Auditing and Assurance – Deepen your knowledge of ethical standards and professional conduct in auditing.
Financial Management – Sharpen your strategic finance abilities through advanced capital planning and risk control.
Professional Ethics & Business Law – Examine real-world dilemmas accountants face today.
Perfect for graduates aiming for senior roles or professional certifications like ACCA or CA.
3. Bachelor’s in Finance: Mastering the Money Flow
This degree is tailor-made for students looking to understand how money moves through markets and businesses. A Bachelor’s in Finance equips students with financial theories, tools, and strategies used by top analysts and financial managers.
Key topics include:
Corporate Finance – Discover how companies manage funding, capital structure, and financial decisions.
Investment Analysis – Learn how to evaluate stocks, bonds, and other assets for individual or institutional investment.
Financial Markets & Derivatives – Get to grips with the trading of equities, currencies, futures, and options.
Quantitative Methods – Use data-driven models to forecast financial performance and mitigate risk.
Financial Management – Understand how organisations plan and control financial resources.
Those aspiring to become investment bankers, portfolio managers, or corporate finance specialists.
4. Master’s in Finance in the UK: Unlocking Global Financial Expertise
Pursuing a Master’s in Finance in the UK offers students a globally respected education that combines theoretical foundations with practical skills in areas such as corporate finance, investment analysis, risk management, and financial markets. The curriculum typically includes modules like financial econometrics, quantitative methods, portfolio management, and international finance.
Key topics included:
Portfolio Management: Focuses on selecting and managing a mix of investment assets to maximise returns while minimising risk.
Financial Econometrics: Uses statistical methods and economic theory to analyze financial data and forecast market trends.
Quantitative Methods: Involves mathematical and statistical tools to solve financial problems and support decision-making.
International Finance: Examines financial transactions, exchange rates, and investment strategies in a global economic context.
Course Structure & Specialisations
In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business world, strong financial knowledge and strategic accounting skills are not just advantages; they are necessities. From shaping long-term strategies to making sound day-to-day decisions, finance and accounting play a central role in ensuring businesses grow sustainably, ethically, and effectively.
Whether you are starting your academic journey with a bachelor's degree or elevating your expertise with a master’s, UK universities offer structured, future-ready programs that blend theory, practice, and real-world relevance.
Let’s break down what to expect at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Undergraduate Structure: BSc Accounting and Finance
Laying the foundation for your financial future
Year 1: Building Blocks of Business and Finance
Your first year is all about getting comfortable with the essentials. You will gain a strong foundation in accounting principles, business law, economics, and digital skills. Expect to explore key concepts such as:
Introduction to Financial and Management Accounting
Principles of Business Law
Micro and Macroeconomics
Statistical and Data Analysis Techniques
Academic Writing and Digital Literacy in Business
This year sets the stage for deeper learning by ensuring you understand the fundamental dynamics of the business world and the role finance plays in it.
Year 2: Diving Deeper into Core Concepts
In your second year, you will begin to specialise. Courses become more focused, taking you into the technical and regulatory areas of finance and accounting. Modules typically include:
Financial Reporting and International Standards
Performance and Strategic Management
Taxation Laws and Planning
Intermediate Financial Management
Applied Data Analytics for Business
Here, theory meets practice. You'll apply your knowledge through case studies, projects, and often, simulation exercises that reflect real-world business problems.
Year 3: Advanced Expertise and Strategic Thinking
Your final year focuses on leadership-level knowledge, preparing you to take on the world. This year includes more complex modules like:
Corporate Finance
Strategic Management Accounting
Advanced Auditing and Risk
Ethics, Sustainability, and Global Financial Responsibility
Dissertation or Capstone Project
You will also explore how financial leadership shapes corporate strategy, while refining your ability to assess financial risks, manage audits, and make ethical decisions.
Optional Placement Year
Many universities offer a placement or “sandwich” year between the second and third year. This is your chance to gain industry experience, build a professional network, and enter your final year with practical knowledge that gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
Postgraduate Structure: MSc Accounting and Finance
The bridge between advanced theory and real-world financial leadership
If you are ready to take your career to the next level or pursue academic research, a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from a UK university is a powerful next step. These one-year programs are fast-paced, intensive, and designed to develop high-level decision-makers and global financial experts.
Core Focus Areas:
Advanced Financial and Management Accounting
Corporate Reporting and Financial Analysis
Empirical Research Methods and Econometrics
Financial Risk Management
Business Ethics and Professional Practice
The curriculum is practice-oriented. You will solve real business problems, explore global financial challenges, and engage in case-based learning that prepares you for high-pressure decision-making.
Elective Modules and Specialisations
Choose from a wide variety of electives to tailor your degree toward your interests or career goals. Popular specialisations include:
FinTech and Data Analytics
Corporate Governance
International Banking
Sustainable Finance
Strategic Investment Analysis
Research Dissertation
The course typically concludes with a research dissertation. Your opportunity to dive deep into a specific area of interest. You will investigate a real financial issue, apply research methodology, and present your findings, a valuable experience that often becomes a stepping stone to a PhD or consulting role.
Why Structure Matters
The structure of Accounting and Finance programs in the UK ensures you don’t just leave with academic knowledge, but with practical, analytical, and ethical skills needed in today’s global financial environment.
You will graduate ready to influence high-level decisions, support corporate growth, and drive financial transformation in any organisation you join.
Whether you are decoding balance sheets or designing investment strategies, a UK degree equips you with the tools to become more than just an accountant; it prepares you to become a financial leader.
Need help choosing the right university or course? Let us know. ScholarshipKart would be happy to help you create a personalised path!
Entry Requirements for Indian Students
Dreaming of studying in the UK? Great choice. But first, let’s talk entry requirements for applying to study an Accounting and Finance program in the UK.
Undergraduate Level
To apply for a bachelor’s degree, Indian students typically need to have completed Standard XII with 70–80%, depending on the university, preferably with Mathematics as a subject.
Universities look for students with strong numerical aptitude, logical thinking, and a keen interest in business and economics. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and analytical reasoning are highly valued.
You will also need to prove your English proficiency:
IELTS: 6.0–6.5 overall (no band below 5.5)
TOEFL: 80–90
PTE: 56–61
Postgraduate Level
For a master’s, you will need a recognised undergraduate degree (usually a 2:2 or equivalent) in a relevant field. Some universities may prefer candidates with work experience in accounting, finance, or business.
English proficiency is a must:
IELTS: 6.5–7.0 (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL: 90–100
PTE: 61–67
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
Studying Accounting and Finance in the UK opens doors to global career opportunities. But what does the investment look like?
For undergraduate programs, tuition fees typically range between £18,000 and £26,000 per year, depending on the university’s ranking and location. Postgraduate courses, such as an MSc in Accounting and Finance, cost anywhere from £16,000 to £45,000 annually, especially at prestigious institutions offering specialised modules and research opportunities.
However, tuition is just one part of the equation. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, local travel, utilities, and study materials, usually fall between £10,000 to £15,000 per year. Cities like London tend to be more expensive, while places like Leeds, Glasgow, or Sheffield offer more budget-friendly options.
Other potential costs include visa application fees, health surcharges, laptop or software expenses, and professional certification fees (like ACCA, CIMA, or CFA), depending on your course path.
While the financial commitment may seem high, the long-term returns, career advancement, international exposure, and a world-class degree, make it a worthwhile investment.
Scholarships for Accounting & Finance Students
Worried about the cost of studying Accounting and Finance in the UK? Don’t be. There’s a wide range of scholarships available specifically for talented Indian students, making your dream of a UK degree far more affordable.
1. Commonwealth Scholarships:
If you are academically bright and face financial constraints, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship and Commonwealth Professional Fellowship could cover your tuition, living costs, and travel. These are awarded to high-potential students committed to making an impact in their field.
2. Chevening Scholarships:
Want to become a future global leader in finance? The UK government’s prestigious Chevening Scholarship supports exceptional individuals by fully funding their studies, tuition, flights, and living costs included.
- GREAT Scholarships:
£10,000 towards tuition fees offered by several UK Universities to Indian students desiring to pursue a one-year master’s course.
4. University-Specific Scholarships:
Top UK universities offer scholarships tailored to international students in finance fields. Examples include:
Bristol Global Accounting and Finance undergraduate scholarship: Two scholarships of £13,000 per year and eight scholarships of £6,500 per year are available.
Bristol Think Big About Business undergraduate awards: Valued at £6,500 and £13,000 per year
SBS: Glasgow International Masters Scholarship: from £6,000 to £8,000
Sheffield Hallam University Postgraduate Study Discounts: £2,000 discount on full-time postgraduate course fees
RGU International Merit-based scholarship for master's students: £5,000 discount on Postgraduate fees
Glasgow World Changers Global Excellence Scholarship: £7,000 per year of study
Alliance MBS Master's Scholarships for International students: Cover part of the tuition fee.
From partial fee waivers to full funding, these opportunities reward merit, leadership, and ambition, making quality UK education within reach for Indian students.
Career Scope in Accounting and Finance
Curious about how much a career in finance can earn you? From graduate entry-level roles to high-paying leadership positions, salaries in this dynamic field vary widely, shaped by your experience, location, and the prestige of the firm you join.
According to Prospects UK, the popular job roles in accounting and finance related fields with expected salaries from graduate entry level to experienced level are:
|
Job Role
|
Expected Salary (Starting to 5-year Experienced)
|
|
Chartered Accountant
|
£40,000 to £65,000
|
|
Chartered Certified Accountant
|
£30,000 to £60,000
|
|
Chartered Management Accountant
|
£30,000 to £60,000
|
|
Chartered Public Finance Accountant
|
£35,000 to £70,000
|
|
Financial Advisor
|
£30,000 to £60,000
|
|
Financial Manager
|
£33,000 and £60,000
|
|
Financial Risk Analyst
|
£30,000 to £50,000
|
|
Financial Trader
|
£30,000 to £60,000 plus
|
|
Company Secretary
|
£35,000 to £80,000 plus
|
|
Investment Banker
|
£35,000 to £75,000 plus
|
|
Investment Analyst
|
£30,000 to £65,000
|
|
Insurance Broker
|
£32,000 to £75,000
|
|
Forensic Accountant
|
£30,000 to £85,000
|
|
External Auditor
|
£32,000 to £50,000
|
|
Arbitrator
|
£30,000 to £65,000
|
|
Actuary
|
£35,000 to £55,000
|
|
Economist
|
£35,000 to £75,000
|
|
Management Consultant
|
£30,000 to £65,000
|
|
Mortgage Adviser
|
£30,000 to £75,000
|
|
Procurement Manager
|
£32,000 to £65,000
|
|
Retail Banker
|
£33,000 to £50,000
|
|
Stockbroker
|
£30,000 to £80,000 plus
|
|
Licensed Conveyancer
|
£32,000 to £60,000
|
|
Tax Adviser
|
£36,000 to £55,000
|
|
Corporate Treasurer
|
£35,000 to £65,000
|
Job Opportunities & Industry Exposure Opportunities
If you are aiming for a career that combines stability, global relevance, and exciting challenges, the UK’s accounting and finance industry opens up a world of opportunity. With London being one of the top financial hubs globally, and cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, Leeds, and Birmingham offering strong financial ecosystems, graduates can find countless roles across diverse sectors.
The UK boasts a rich landscape of employers. Major recruiters include the Big Four accounting firms: Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG, as well as Grant Thornton, BDO, Mazars, and Smith & Williamson.
In the banking and investment sector, top names include HSBC, Barclays, NatWest, Lloyds Banking Group, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Morgan Stanley. Leading insurance and financial services firms like Aviva, Prudential, Standard Life, AXA, and Legal & General also hire extensively.
Graduate roles are diverse, ranging from Financial Analyst, Management Accountant, Risk Consultant, Investment Analyst, Tax Advisor, and Audit Associate to Forensic Accountant and Corporate Finance Executive. Many firms run structured graduate schemes that include mentoring, professional qualification sponsorship (ACCA, CIMA, ACA), and cross-functional training.
What sets the UK apart is its expanding finance ecosystem. With a strong fintech boom, rising demand for ESG finance, and increased focus on regulatory compliance, the sector is growing rapidly. Tech-savvy roles such as Data Analyst, Fintech Consultant, and Financial Modeller are also on the rise.
Universities in the UK often embed real-world experience through internships, live projects, and industry collaborations; preparing students to hit the ground running. Whether you are eyeing a role in a multinational, SME, or public sector organisation, the UK equips you with world-class exposure, global networks, and a platform for long-term career success in accounting and finance.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process
The UK offers a simple, well-structured, and student-friendly application process; whether you are applying for a bachelor's or a master's in Accounting and Finance. Here's how you can get started:
For Undergraduate Courses
Choose Your Course and University
Begin by exploring UK universities that offer strong Accounting and Finance programs. Check course content, entry requirements, tuition fees, and career prospects.
Apply through UCAS
Register on the UCAS website. This is your gateway to most UK undergraduate programs. Fill in your details, academic records, and write a compelling personal statement. You’ll also need a reference from a teacher or school counsellor.
Deadlines Matter
31 January: Main UCAS deadline
June: Late deadline (goes into clearing)
Applying early increases your chances of receiving an offer from your preferred university.
Offers & Next Steps
Once UCAS sends you your offers, conditional or unconditional, you can accept your place and start preparing for the next steps: funding, visa, and travel.
For Postgraduate Courses
Master’s applications are typically made directly through the university’s website. You will need to submit your academic qualifications, a personal statement, references, and proof of English proficiency. Unlike UCAS, many universities have rolling deadlines, so applying early is still highly recommended.
Once accepted, arrange your funding, apply for your student visa, and prepare for life in the UK. From financial planning to accommodation, everything falls into place when you follow the right process.
Student Visa Requirements for Indian Applicants
To study Accounting and Finance in the UK, Indian students must apply for a UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4). Begin by applying online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen UK university is mandatory.
You must show proof of funds, tuition fees + £1,334/month for up to 9 months if studying in London (or £1,023/month elsewhere). The money should be held in your/your parents’ bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
Additionally, you must prove your English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
In addition to Academic transcripts, a valid passport, passport-sized photos, Tuberculosis (TB) test results, ATAS certificate (if applicable) and a clean financial record are also essential.
The visa application is made online and typically costs £520, plus an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year. Apply at least 3 months before your course starts to allow time for processing, biometrics, and ample time for travel preparation.
Final Thoughts: Is a UK Accounting & Finance Degree Worth It?
Without a doubt, a UK degree in Accounting and Finance is a powerful investment in your future. With world-renowned universities, globally recognised qualifications, and direct access to top-tier employers, the UK opens doors to limitless career possibilities, locally and internationally.
Whether you aim to become a chartered accountant, financial analyst, or CFO, the UK equips you with technical expertise, practical skills, and global exposure. Add to that generous scholarships, vibrant student life, and post-study work opportunities; it's more than just a degree; it’s a career-defining journey.
Ready to take the leap? Book a Free Consultation with ScholarshipKart today. Whether it's crafting a strong SOP, securing scholarships, or clearing the UK visa maze, we offer complete end-to-end support. We take care of the details, so you can focus on what truly matters: launching a successful finance career on the global stage.