What is ACCA and Its Importance?
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognised professional qualification for individuals looking to build a successful career in various finance-related courses. Established in 1904, ACCA sets high standards for financial expertise and ethics, ensuring that certified professionals are well-equipped to handle complex financial responsibilities.
The benefits of becoming ACCA-certified have been described below in detail to provide you with a thorough understanding:
Global Recognition: ACCA is accepted in 180+ countries, making it one of the most prestigious accounting qualifications worldwide. Whether you aim to work in the UK, Canada, the UAE, or anywhere else, this certification opens doors to international career opportunities.
High Employability: Employers across industries value ACCA-certified professionals for their technical skills, analytical abilities and ethical mindset. With this qualification, you can land roles in big accounting firms, multinational corporations and financial institutions.
Becoming a Chartered Accountant: ACCA provides a direct route to becoming a Chartered Accountant, a title that enhances your credibility and career growth. Moreover, ACCA offers specialisation options in numerous areas, allowing you to tailor your career to your interests.
In short, ACCA isn’t just another certification – it’s a passport to a thriving career in the finance industry.
Why Study ACCA in the UK?
World-Class Education Standards
Access to Top Universities
One of the biggest advantages of studying ACCA in the UK is the wide range of accredited universities offering specialised courses. Whether you’re looking for a full-time degree, a flexible part-time study option, or an online learning pathway, the UK provides diverse opportunities to tailor your education to your professional goals. Many ACCA-aligned programmes also offer industry mentorship, internship opportunities and networking events, helping students build valuable connections within the finance sector.
Career Opportunities
With its status as an international financial hub, the UK offers excellent job prospects for ACCA-certified professionals. Many industries – including banking, auditing, consulting and taxation – actively seek out ACCA graduates for their expertise in financial management and strategic decision-making. In addition, the UK is home to several multinational companies and financial institutions, increasing the chances of securing high-paying roles both locally and internationally.
The combination of high-quality education, professional exposure and strong career prospects makes the UK an ideal destination for students looking to pursue ACCA and build a successful future in accounting and finance.
List of ACCA-Certified Universities in the UK
The UK is a prime destination for students pursuing ACCA certification, offering a diverse range of universities that meet the gold-standard accreditation set by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. These universities are recognised for their rigorous accounting programmes, which blend technical expertise with real-world applications.
From well-established institutions to modern business schools, the UK provides multiple study options, including undergraduate degrees with ACCA exemptions, postgraduate programmes, and professional training courses designed to fast-track your qualification. Many of these universities also have strong links with industry leaders, offering students networking opportunities, internships and career support to gain a competitive edge in the job market.
In the next section, we’ll explore some of the top ACCA-accredited universities in the UK, helping you navigate your options and choose the best institution to set the foundation for a successful career in finance.
Top ACCA-Accredited Universities
| Name of University | QS Ranking 2025 | Eligibility Criteria | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh | 27th globally |
| The following ACCA-accredited courses are offered at the University of Edinburgh:
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| University of Manchester | 34th globally |
| The University of Manchester offers the following ACCA-accredited courses:
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| University of Glasgow | 78th globally |
| The University of Glasgow provides the following courses with ACCA accreditation:
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| University of Southampton | 80th globally |
| At the University of Southampton, you can enrol in these ACCA-accredited courses:
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| University of Leeds | 82nd globally |
| You can find the following ACCA-accredited programs at the University of Leeds:
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Eligibility and Admission Requirements
Gaining admission to an ACCA-accredited programme in the UK requires meeting specific academic and language criteria. These ensure that students have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their studies and future careers.
Check out the following section for the breakdown of the general requirements and institution-specific criteria.
General Requirements
Academic Qualifications
- Undergraduate Programmes: Applicants should have successfully completed higher secondary education (equivalent to UK A-levels). For Indian students, this typically means passing 10+2 with strong grades, particularly in mathematics and related subjects.
- Postgraduate Programmes: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is generally required. However, some universities may accept applicants from other disciplines if they have relevant work experience in the fields of finance or business.
English Language Proficiency
Since courses are taught in English, non-native speakers are required to prove their language proficiency. The commonly accepted tests and their minimum scores include:- IELTS: Overall 6.5, with no component scoring below 6.0.
- TOEFL iBT: Total score of 90, with specific minimum section scores depending on the university.
Specific University Criteria
| Name of University | Undergraduate Programme Requirements | Postgraduate Programme Requirements | English Language Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh |
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|
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| University of Manchester |
| The University of Manchester currently does not have any postgraduate ACCA-accredited programmes |
|
| University of Glasgow |
| The University of Glasgow does not have any postgraduate ACCA-accredited programmes currently |
|
| University of Southampton |
| The University of Southampton currently does not have any postgraduate ACCA-accredited programmes |
|
| University of Leeds |
| The University of Leeds currently does not have any postgraduate ACCA-accredited programmes |
|
Cost of Studying ACCA in the UK
As an international student, planning your finances is one of the most crucial steps of your abroad study journey. It removes significant stress from your overall journey and streamlines the process effectively. The tuition fees, living costs and available scholarships together comprise the financials associated with pursuing an ACCA-accredited programme in the UK.
Tuition Fees
The following table has the average tuition fee structure for some of the top-rated programmes at the leading universities of the UK:
| Name of University | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh | £28,000 – £35,000 approximately |
| University of Manchester | £31,500 approximately |
| University of Glasgow | £26,580 approximately |
| University of Southampton | £25,200 approximately |
| University of Leeds | £30,500 approximately |
Living Expenses
Living costs in the UK typically vary based on an individual’s location and lifestyle. Here’s an approximate monthly breakdown of all the costs you will incur as a part of your international student life:
| Type of Expense | Average Monthly Costs (£) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | £500 – £1,200 |
| Utilities | £100 – £150 |
| Food | £150 – £250 |
| Transportation | £50 – £100 |
| Miscellaneous | £100 – £200 |
Scholarship Options
International students have numerous scholarship options to choose from to fund their ACCA-accredited course journey without financial difficulties. Check out the following table for a summary of the available scholarships:
| Name of Scholarship | Overview | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Simpson Scholarship | Covers exam fees, annual subscription fees and a one-off payment for study materials from ACCA’s approved content providers. | Open to ACCA students globally who have completed at least two ACCA exams and can demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. |
| GREAT Scholarships India | Offers £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course in the UK. | Indian students holding an offer from a participating UK university for the relevant year. |
| British Council Scholarships | Various scholarships are available for Indian students aiming to study in the UK, covering partial to full tuition fees. | Criteria vary – generally based on academic merit and financial need. |
Career Prospects After ACCA Certification
Popular Roles and Industries
ACCA-certified professionals are equipped to excel in multiple roles, including:
- Financial Accountant: Manages financial records and ensures compliance with regulations.
- Management Accountant: Providing financial insights to inform strategic decisions.
- Auditor: Evaluating financial statements for accuracy and compliance.
- Tax Consultant: Advising on tax planning and compliance matters.
- Financial Analyst: Assessing financial data to guide investment decisions.
These roles are prevalent in industries such as finance, consulting, banking and insurance.
Average Salaries in the UK
Salaries for ACCA professionals in the UK vary based on experience, role, and location:
| Job Title | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Financial Accountant | £40,000 – £60,000 |
| Auditor | £23,000 – £35,000 |
| Financial Consultant | £45,000 – £50,000 |
| Tax Manager | £49,000 – £80,000 |
| Business Manager | £29,000 – £60,000 |
Global Opportunities
One of the biggest advantages of earning an ACCA qualification is its global recognition, allowing professionals to work in over 180 countries, including financial hubs like the UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, UAE and Hong Kong. Employers worldwide value ACCA for its comprehensive curriculum, which covers financial management, taxation, auditing and business ethics – ensuring that ACCA-certified individuals are job-ready in multiple industries.
In summary, ACCA certification not only enhances employability in the UK but also provides a passport to global career opportunities across multiple industries.
Top Features of ACCA-Certified Programmes in the UK
Flexible Study Options
ACCA accommodates diverse learning preferences and schedules:
- Full-Time Courses: Ideal for students aiming to expedite their qualification process.
- Part-Time/Weekend Courses: Designed for individuals balancing work or other commitments alongside their studies.
Industry Partnerships
ACCA has established collaborations with leading organisations to enhance the learning experience:
- Global Growth Institute: This partnership provides ACCA members with exclusive access to leadership development programs, enhancing managerial competencies.
- AMT Training: Offers specialised e-learning courses in financial modelling and analysis, allowing members to develop practical skills relevant to the finance industry.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The ACCA curriculum is meticulously designed to cover all essential aspects of accounting and finance:
- Technical Modules: Include Financial Reporting, Audit and Assurance and Taxation, ensuring a solid foundation in core accounting principles.
- Managerial Modules: Focus on Strategic Business Leadership and Performance Management, equipping students with skills to make informed business decisions.
- Ethical Modules: Emphasize professionalism and ethical standards, which are integral to maintaining public trust and integrity in the accounting profession.
By integrating flexible study options, strategic industry partnerships and a comprehensive curriculum, ACCA ensures that its members are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the global economic environment.
FAQs
1. What are the eligibility criteria for ACCA courses in the UK?
Most universities require a 10+2 qualification with good grades in Mathematics and English. Additionally, international students must meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores).
2. How long does it take to complete ACCA in the UK?
3. What is the UK's average tuition fee for ACCA programs?
4. Can I work while studying ACCA in the UK?
5. Is ACCA recognised globally?
Conclusion
Pursuing an ACCA qualification in the UK opens doors to world-class education, global career opportunities and high-earning potential. With top universities offering accredited programmes, flexible study options and strong industry connections, students gain the skills and recognition needed to excel in the accounting and finance sectors.
If you’re considering studying ACCA in the UK, expert guidance can make the process seamless. Fateh Education specialises in helping students secure admission to top UK universities, offering personalised counselling, application assistance and visa support. With years of experience in study abroad consulting, we ensure you find the right university and maximise your opportunities.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Fateh Education today and start your journey towards a successful accounting career in the UK!
