Masters in Accounting in the UK: Eligibility, Fees, Colleges, Scholarship , Jobs & Career Scope
Masters in Accounting in UKMaster in Accounting in UK is a 1 year MS degree in UK that offers expertise in the field of accounting. The top colleges for Masters in Accounting in UK include Imperial College London, University of Manchester, London School of Economics and Political Science, etc. The Masters in Accounting in UK admission criteria include at least 60% aggregate or a 3.2 out of 4.0 GPA. International applicants are also required to have an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL equivalent score of 88 to demonstrate English language proficiency.
The Masters in Accounting in UK fees range between £16,000 to 42,200 in the top accounting universities in UK. Apart from academia, the UK is home to the big-4 companies for accounting and professional services, which include Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). The average salary offered to students after completing MS in accounting in UK ranges between £32,000 to 69,500. Some of the key job roles offered after Masters in Accounting in UK include accountant, senior auditor, financial controller, etc.
Continue reading this expert guide that will navigate you through the Masters in Accounting in UK placement, top colleges, placement, fees and salaries.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Quick Highlights
The table below shows the quick highlights of Masters in Accounting in UK.
Particulars | Details |
Courses | MSc in Accounting, and MSc in Finance and Accounting |
Course Type |
|
Program Duration | 1 Year |
Eligibility Criteria | 2:1 or 2:2 Bachelor’s honours degree in Accounting, Business, Finance or a related stream from a recognized university |
English Proficiency Requirement | IELTS: 6 to 7 overall score | TOEFL iBT: 88 to 107 overall score |
Average Annual Fees | £16,000 to 42,200 |
Average Annual Salary | £32,000 to 69,500 |
Course intake | October |
Also Check : Masters in Accounting in Canada
Masters in Accounting in UK: Important Dates and Events
Masters in Accounting in UK applications are generally accepted in September, while the key application deadlines lie around the following May. The intakes and deadlines may vary with the university.
Application Start & End Dates for Top Accounting Universities in UK
The table below shows the application deadline for the top accounting universities in UK.
Universities | Courses | Application Deadline |
Imperial College London | MSc Finance and Accounting | Rolling Basis |
University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) | MSc in Accounting, MSc Accounting and Finance | July 2026 (Tentative) |
London School of Economics and Political Science | MSc Accounting and Finance, MSc Accounting, Organisations, and Institutions, MSc Law and Accounting | Rolling Basis |
University of Edinburgh | MSc Accounting and Finance | April 2026 (Tentative) |
University of Northampton | MSc Accounting and Finance | July 2026 (Tentative) |
Warwick Business School | MSc Accounting and Finance | July 2026 (Tentative) |
University of Bristol | MSc Accounting, Finance, and Management | July 2026 (Tentative) |
University of Birmingham | MSc Accounting and Finance | May 2026 (Tentative) |
Lancaster University | MSc Accounting and Financial Management | January 2026 (Tentative) |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Visa Application Timeline
The UK Student Visa for Masters in Accounting in UK, students have to apply at least 6 months prior if they are applying from outside the UK and 3 months prior if applying from inside the UK. The table below shows a detailed breakdown of the visa application timeline for Masters in Accounting in UK.
Type | Earliest Application | Decision Time |
Applying from inside the UK | 3 Months | 8 Weeks |
Applying from outside the UK | 6 Months | 3 Weeks |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Fees
The table below shows the Masters in Accounting in UK fees for top universities.
Universities | Courses | Annual Fees (in Pounds) |
Imperial College London | MSc Finance and Accounting | £42,200 |
University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) | MSc in Accounting, MSc Accounting and Finance | £33,500 |
London School of Economics and Political Science | MSc Accounting and Finance, MSc Accounting, Organisations, and Institutions, MSc Law and Accounting | £34,100 |
University of Edinburgh | MSc Accounting and Finance | £37,200 |
University of Northampton | MSc Accounting and Finance | £16,500 |
Warwick Business School | MSc Accounting and Finance | £38,000 |
University of Bristol | MSc Accounting, Finance, and Management | £31,100 |
University of Birmingham | MSc Accounting and Finance | £28,890 |
Lancaster University | MSc Accounting and Financial Management | £26,500 |
Cardiff University | MSc Accounting and Finance | £26,700 |
Cardiff Metropolitan University | MSc Accounting and Finance | £16,000 |
Aston University | MSc Accounting and Finance | £22,750 |
Bayes Business School | MSc International Accounting and Finance | £31,700 |
Cranfield School of Management | MSc Accounting and Finance | £30,900 |
Cost of Living in UK
The cost of living in UK is roughly 1.75 times that of India. The table below shows a detailed overview of the regular expenses students make while pursuing their Masters in Accounting in UK.
Expenses Type | Average Expenses |
Accommodation | £7,200 |
Meals | £2,400 |
Transportation | £780 |
Utilities | £2,220 |
Miscellaneous Expenses | £1,500 |
Why Choose a Masters in Accounting in UK?
There are several reasons for international students to pursue masters in accounting from UK. Some of the reasons are listed in the following points.
- In QS World subject ranking 2025 for accounting & finance, four UK universities are in the global top 10.
- The UK is home to Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC. The top recruiters for accounting graduates. The presence of these firms in the UK, provides early access to students to the Big-4 accounting companies.
- The UK is also known for its strong postgraduate salaries. For instance, the masters graduates in accounting can earn roughly between £27,000 - 35,000. This income can be further boosted up to £65,000 with further training.
- The UK offers masters programs that last from 9-12 months. This academic structure lets students enter the job market as soon as possible.
- UK masters and bachelors degree holders qualify for the Graduate Route Visa, allowing them to stay for two years and have full work rights.
- Many MSc programs in UK are accredited by bodies like ACCA, CIMA and ICAEW, granting exemptions from up to 9 ACCA applied papers.
- UK accounting degrees are recognised internationally.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Qualification
The table below shows the university-wise qualifications required for studying Masters in Accounting in UK.
University | Qualification Required |
Imperial College London | 2:1 honours degree or equivalent from a recognized university, GMAT score, and English proficiency test. |
University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) | First or upper second-class honours degree from a recognized university with at least 60% aggregate and English proficiency test. |
London School of Economics and Political Science | 2:1 honours degree in Accounting and Finance or equivalent from a recognized university, GMAT Score, and English proficiency test. |
University of Edinburgh | 2:1 honours degree in Accounting and Finance or equivalent with 3.2 out of 4.0 GPA or 60% aggregate from a recognized university and English proficiency test. |
University of Northampton | First or upper second class honours degree from a recognized university and English proficiency test. |
Warwick Business School | 2:1 honours degree in Accounting and Finance or equivalent from a recognized university, GMAT score, and English proficiency test. |
University of Birmingham | A three-year Bachelor's degree (first class) from a recognised institution with at least 50-60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency and English proficiency test. |
Lancaster University | 2:1 honours degree in Accounting, Business, Finance or equivalent from a recognized university and English proficiency test. |
Cardiff University | 2:1 honours degree in Accounting, Business, Finance or equivalent with 3.0 out of 4.0 or 60% aggregate from a recognized university and English proficiency test. |
Cardiff Metropolitan University | 2:2 honours degree in Accounting and Finance or equivalent from a recognized university with 5 years of relevant experience or more and English proficiency test. |
Aston university | 2:2 honours degree in Accounting and Finance or equivalent from a recognized university with relevant work experience and English proficiency test. |
University of Bristol | Upper second class honours degree in Accounting, Business, Finance or a related stream from a recognized university with at least 60% aggregate and English proficiency test. |
Bayes Business School | Upper second class honours degree from a recognized university, GMAT score and English proficiency test. |
Cranfield School of Management | Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, GMAT score and English proficiency test. |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Eligibility Criteria
The table below shows the eligibility criteria for top accounting universities in UK.
University | English Language Requirements |
Imperial College London | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 100 (at least 22 in each section) |
University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 100 (at least 22 in each section) |
London School of Economics and Political Science | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 107 |
University of Edinburgh | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6 in each band) | TOEFL: 100 (at least 20 in each section) |
University of Northampton | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) |
Warwick Business School | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 100 (at least 22 in each section) |
University of Birmingham | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) | TOEFL: 88 (at least 21 in each section) |
Lancaster University | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) |
Cardiff University | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) |
Cardiff Metropolitan University | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) |
Aston university | IELTS: 6 (with at least 5.5 in each band) |
University of Bristol | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 6 in each band) | TOEFL: 88 (at least 20 in each section) |
Bayes Business School | IELTS: 7 (with at least 6.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 100 (at least 25 in each section) |
Cranfield School of Management | IELTS: 6.5 (with at least 5.5 in each band) | TOEFL: 92 (at least 17 in each section) |
Masters in Accounting in UK: SOP, LOR, and Resume
For admission to the top Accounting Universities in UK , students have to prepare a decent SOP, LOR, and resume that could highlight their intent of pursuing a particular course. The table below shows the details regarding the details of preparing a solid Statement of Purpose, Letter of Recommendation, and Resume for Masters in Accounting in UK.
Document Type | Content to be Included |
SOP (Statement of Purpose) | In this document, you have to highlight your passion for accounting and finance. To make an effective SOP, connect your experience to your future goals. |
LOR (Letter of Recommendation) | Select someone who knows you well academically or professionally, ideally a professor or employer who can attest to your strengths and potential. The LOR must complement your passion shown in the SOP. |
Resume | In this document, highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, and any practical experience you’ve gained. |
Top Accounting Entrance Exams for UK
To get admission to the top UK Universities for accounting and finance, students need to pass some standard tests like GMAT/GRE and prove their English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. In addition to this the top accounting universities require a bachelor degree in accounting with specific GPA.
Masters in Accounting in UK: GMAT Preparation Strategy
Below mentioned are some expert-curated tips for GMAT preparation for Masters in Accounting in UK.
- Understand the GMAT format for UK Accounting Masters degree. Understanding the format will allow you to prepare effectively for the final GMAT exam.
- Practice daily with official GMAT mock tests and question banks.
- Analyse the mock tests results. Focus on weakest sections to meet the GMAT cutoff score for Masters in Accounting in UK.
- Be consistent with your GMAT study plan with timed practice.
- Enroll in trusted GMAT preparation courses.
Masters in Accounting in UK: IELTS/TOEFL Tips
Below are some expert curated tips for the IELTS and TOEFL preparation for Masters in Accounting in UK.
- Practice academic listening daily to prepare for the IELTS/TOEFL comprehension section.
- Use official IELTS and TOEFL mock tests for stimulated GMAT exam.
- Improve speaking fluency with mock interviews and topic drills.
- Write essays under exam-like conditions to enhance scripts.
- Improve vocabulary daily through newspapers, books and other sources to prepare for the reading and writing sections.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Cutoff
The table below shows the Masters in Accounting in UK GMAT cut-off for the top accounting universities in UK.
University | GMAT Scores |
Imperial College London | 650 |
London School of Economics and Political Science | 650 |
Warwick Business School | 700 |
Bayes Business School | 600 |
Cranfield School of Management | 600 |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Syllabus
Masters in Accounting in UK syllabus typically includes a combination of core and optional courses that includes financial accounting and reporting, management accounting, corporate finance, auditing, corporate governance, etc. Furthermore the students studying Masters in Accounting in UK are expected to develop research and analytical skills, often through a dissertation or research proposal.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Core Courses
The table below shows some of the core modules included in the Accounting Syllabus in UK.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Core Courses | |
Financial Accounting and Reporting | Management Accounting |
Corporate Finance | Auditing |
Corporate Governance | N/A |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Electives & Specializations
The table below shows the optionals and electives in the accounting syllabus in UK.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Electives & Specializations | |
International Accounting | Taxation |
Financial Markets and Institutions | Data Analysis and Management |
Best Universities for Course in Location
The table below shows the top accounting universities in UK with their QS World Ranking and Seat Matrix.
Universities | QS World Ranking 2025 | Masters in Accounting Seats |
University of Oxford | 4 | 88 |
University of Cambridge | 6 | 25 |
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 8 | NA |
London Business School | 18 | 121 |
Imperial College London | 21 | NA |
The University of Manchester | 23 | 100 |
The University of Warwick | 44 | NA |
UCL | 46 | NA |
The University of Edinburgh | 49 | NA |
University of Glasgow | 72 | NA |
Masters in Accounting in UK Vs. Masters in Accounting in India
The table below shows the key comparisons between pursuing a Masters in Accounting in UK Vs. India.
Grounds | Masters in Accounting in UK | Masters in Accounting in India |
Global Recognition | Degrees from UK universities like LSE, Warwick, and Manchester are globally recognized, boosting international career prospects. | Indian degrees have value locally, especially from top institutes like IIMS, ISB, and ICAI, but may not carry the same global weight. |
Duration | 1-Year | 2-Year |
Cost & Investment | £16,000 to 42,200 | ₹1-5 lakhs in Public Universities and higher in private. |
Industry Exposure | Close ties with Big Four firms and financial hubs like London | Strong local industry connections, often focused on Indian accounting standards and practices |
Entry Requirements | Bachelor's degree (usually in accounting or business), IELTS/TOEFL for language, and sometimes GMAT/GRE. | Bachelor's degree (B.Com/BBA preferred); competitive exams like CAT, XAT, or institute-specific tests |
Medium of Teaching | English | English and Hindi |
Post-Study Opportunities | Potential for post-study work visas (e.g., UK Graduate Route) and international roles in multinational companies. | Campus placements with limited international mobility. |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Scholarships
The table below shows the top scholarships available for Masters in Accounting in UK.
Scholarship | Eligibility |
Commonwealth Masters Scholarship | Resident of commonwealth countries, Official transcripts, at least 2 references |
Alumni Discount - University of Bristol | Candidates pursuing a degree program again in the University of Bristol |
Bristol Master’s Scholarship | Individuals pursuing MA, MSc, or MRes |
Manchester Master’s Bursary | Individuals pursuing MA, MEd, MSc, MRes, etc. |
LSE Master’s Award | Candidates pursuing a Master’s degree program with academic excellence |
Lancaster Master’s Scholarship | Candidates pursuing a Master’s degree program with academic excellence |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Scholarship Deadline for 2025
The table below shows the application deadline for various scholarships available for international students studying Masters in Accounting in UK.
Scholarship | Application Deadline 2025 |
Commonwealth Masters Scholarship | December 2025 (Tentative) |
Alumni Discount - University of Bristol | No Specific Deadlines |
Bristol Master’s Scholarship | May 2026 (Tentative) |
Manchester Master’s Bursary | June 2026 (Tentative) |
LSE Master’s Award | May 2026 (Tentative) |
Lancaster Master’s Scholarship | July 31, 2025 |
Career Scope After Masters in Accounting in UK
The table below shows the career scope for Masters in Accounting graduates in UK.
Job Role | Annual Salary in Pounds |
Accountant | £32,200 |
Senior Auditor | £40,800 |
Management Accountant | £37,700 |
Financial Controller | £56,700 |
Finance Manager | £44,400 |
Chartered Accountant | £32,000 |
Finance Director | £69,500 |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Top Recruiters
The following are the top recruiters for Masters in Accounting in UK.
Masters in Accounting in UK: Top Recruiters | ||
Deloitte | EY | KPMG |
PwC | Grant Thornton | BDO |
RSM | Smith & Williamson | Moore Stephens |
Saffery Champness | Haines Watts | Crowe Clark Whitehill |
UHY | Hacker Young | N/A |
Masters in Accounting in UK: Rate of Interest
The table below shows the rate of interest of various top Accounting Universities in UK.
Universities | Investment (Fees) | Return (Average Salary) |
University of Manchester (Alliance Manchester Business School) | £33,500 | £34,000 |
London School of Economics and Political Science | £34,100 | £41,000 |
University of Bristol | £31,100 | £38,000 |
University of Birmingham | £28,900 | £34,000 |
Lancaster University | £26,500 | £31,000 |
Cardiff University | £26,700 | £31,000 |
Aston university | £22,750 | £32,000 |
Cranfield School of Management | £30,900 | £42,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Is a Masters in Accounting in the UK good?
Ans: Yes, a Masters in Accounting in UK is good. Studying Masters in Accounting in UK provides high average salaries, and access to big 4 accounting companies in the world..
Ques: What are the average tuition fees for Masters in Accounting in UK.?
Ans: Average tuition fees for a Masters in Accounting in top UK Universities typically range between £16,000 to 42,200 per year.
Ques: How does a Masters in Accounting in the UK compare to a Masters in Finance?
Ans: A Masters in Accounting in UK emphasizes auditing, taxation, and management accounting, while a masters in finance focuses on investment analysis and corporate finance.
Ques: Can I study a part-time Masters in Accounting in UK if I have family commitments?
Ans: Yes, many UK universities offer part-time masters in accounting programs, ideal for working professionals.