Are you an Indian student planning a rewarding career in finance? Do you dream of working at global companies like Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, or EY? If yes, accounting in UK for Indian students is one of the smartest pathways to a high-paying international career.

The UK is the birthplace of world-leading finance qualifications like ACCA and home to globally reputed accounting and business universities. Thousands of Indian students choose the UK every year because it offers international exposure, strong job prospects, and a clear path to PR. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know — best accounting courses, eligibility, fees, salaries, and how to start your finance career in the UK.

1. Why Study Accounting in UK? (Major Benefits for Indian Students)

The UK is the financial capital of Europe. London alone houses more than 350,000 finance professionals and the head offices of major multinationals — offering you endless opportunities.

Top reasons to choose the UK:

• Degrees recognised worldwide
  
• Access to Big 4 & Fortune 500 companies
  
• One of the world’s strongest finance job markets
  
• Practical learning + internship opportunities
  
• Specialised courses like ACCA, CIMA, CPA pathways
  
• Route to Skilled Worker Visa & settlement
  

According to UK Government reports, finance and accounting roles remain among the Top 10 most shortage occupations.

2. Best Accounting Courses in UK for Indian Students

UK universities offer a range of finance and accounting programs from undergraduate to professional qualifications.

2.1 Undergraduate Courses

2.2 Postgraduate Courses

Many UK programs offer exemptions for ACCA or CIMA, reducing exam papers after graduation.

3. ACCA in UK – The Most Popular Accounting Qualification

The UK is the global home of ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) — the fastest route to becoming an international accountant.

Why ACCA is ideal for Indian students:

• Accepted in 180+ countries
  
• More affordable and quicker than CA/CFA
  
• Easy pathway to senior roles in finance and auditing
  
• Growing demand in UK’s public and private sectors
  

You can pursue ACCA directly or along with your UG/PG studies.

4. CPA UK – Is it Recognised?

Many students search for CPA in UK, but here’s the fact:

The UK does not offer CPA certification.
Instead, accounting professionals pursue one of these:

• ACCA
  
• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
  
• ACA from ICAEW (highly prestigious)
  

If you want a Certified Public Accountant role, you can choose:

• CPA USA
  
• CPA Australia (recognised in the UK)
  

5. Top UK Universities for Accounting & Finance

Choose universities with ACCA exemptions and strong placement records.

6. Fees for Accounting in UK for Indian Students

Tuition Fees

Living Costs

• London: £12,000 – £15,000 per year
  
• Other cities: £9,000 – £12,000 per year
  

Some universities offer paid internships, reducing overall living expenses.

7. Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students

For UG Programs

• 12th Grade (CBSE/ISC/State Boards): 60–70%
  
• Commerce/Maths preferred
  
• English Test:
  
• IELTS: 6.0–6.5
  
• PTE/TOEFL equivalent
  
• Personal Statement + LORs
  

For PG Programs

• BCom/BBA/BA Economics/Finance degree: 55–60%+
  
• Work experience beneficial (not mandatory)
  
• IELTS: 6.5 overall
  

For ACCA

• 10+2 with minimum 65% in Accounts/Maths
  
• IELTS 5.5+ (if required)
  

8. Finance & Accounting Jobs in UK: Salary Scope

The UK offers one of the highest salary scales in Europe.

High-demand cities: London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol

9. PR & Visa Opportunities for Accounting Graduates

Accounting professionals can easily secure a Skilled Worker Visa after graduation.

Pathway:

• Complete UG/PG/ACCA in UK
  
• Secure job with Salary £26,200+
  
• Skilled Worker Visa – 2 to 5 years
  
• Apply ILR (Permanent Residency)
  
• British Citizenship later
  

Finance roles are listed under UK Shortage Occupation List — meaning easier sponsorship.

10. Application Process for Accounting Courses in the UK

Follow this simple step-by-step process:

• Choose course + university
  
• Gather documents: transcripts, SOP, LOR, passport
  
• Apply via UCAS (UG) / University portal (PG)
  
• Clear IELTS/PTE
  
• Receive Offer Letter
  
• Pay deposit & submit financial documents
  
• Get CAS Letter
  
• Apply UK Student Visa
  
• Fly and begin your journey!
  

Major Intakes: January & September

11. ACCA vs Master’s in Accounting – Which is Better?

Best Option:
Do MSc Accounting + ACCA exemptions for maximum career growth.

12. Challenges to Consider

• Highly competitive finance job market
  
• Need strong communication & analytical skills
  
• London living costs are higher
  
• Technical exams like ACCA require continuous effort
  

But with dedication, the UK offers excellent career stability and success.

FAQs 

1. What is the starting salary after accounting in UK for Indian students?

Fresh accounting graduates earn £28,000–£35,000, depending on city and company size. Big 4 pay higher.

2. Is ACCA better than CA for international jobs?

Yes. ACCA is recognised in 180+ countries, whereas CA India is not globally accepted.

3. Can I study accounting in the UK without maths?

Yes, many universities accept non-maths students for business & finance programs.

4. How long does it take to become a Chartered Accountant in the UK?

With ACCA + exemptions, you can become fully qualified in 2–3 years.

5. Is work experience required for MSc Accounting in the UK?

Not mandatory, but internships or 1–2 years experience give a strong advantage.

6. Can I get PR after accounting studies in the UK?

Yes. With a sponsored job, you can apply for PR after 2–5 years of work.

7. What are the best finance courses UK offers for Indian students?

Top choices include MSc Accounting & Finance, ACCA, CIMA, and MBA Finance.

Conclusion 

If you want a career with high income, strong respect, and global mobility, the UK is the perfect destination. With world-class qualifications, Big 4 placements, and secure visa options, accounting in the UK can transform your future.

Whether you’re a 12th-pass commerce student or a finance graduate — now is the best time to take your next step.

👉 Want personalised university selection and ACCA guidance?
Contact me now and start building your global finance career in the UK!