ACCA Universities in UK 2026-2027: Top Courses & Fees

Ready to fast-track your global accountancy career and land a role at a Big 4 firm? The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification is recognised in over 180 countries, but choosing the right ACCA University in UK is the critical strategic step that determines your success. With the UK being a major hub for Platinum Approved Learning Partners and the Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG), your university choice impacts everything: from the number of exemptions you receive to the speed of your qualification.

Unfortunately, navigating the varying tuition fees, course structures, and exemption rules can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise. We will show you exactly how to select the best institution to maximise your ACCA exemptions, reduce your study duration, and unlock direct pathways to top financial roles. We cover the top ACCA universities in UK, full course fees, scholarships, and career prospects for the 2026–2027 intake.

The ACCA qualification serves as a globally recognised passport to a successful career in finance and business leadership. It prepares students for strategic roles, from financial management to executive decision-making, and offers a fast-track route to senior and C-suite positions across industries worldwide.

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• Global Recognition: ACCA qualifications from UK universities serve as a global passport for finance professionals, offering career mobility and recognition in over 180 countries.
• Professional Exposure: Studying ACCA in UK provides direct corporate access to top-tier employers, including Big Four and multinational firms, through structured UK graduate schemes and internship opportunities in cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.
• Flexible Intakes: Many UK universities offer 4–6 start dates annually, allowing students to begin their ACCA journey sooner and progress efficiently toward full qualification.
• Exemption Benefits: Indian students with a B.Com, M.Com, or CA can receive exemptions for several ACCA papers.

Example: A B.Com graduate can get up to 4 exemptions, M.Com/MBA holders up to 6, and CA (India) holders up to 9 exemptions, reducing the total ACCA duration.

Universities in UK map their accounting programs to ACCA papers. Students completing relevant degrees can skip foundational exams, reducing both cost and duration.

Benefits of exemptions:

• Faster progression to the Strategic Professional level
• Lower exam fees (£80–£135 per paper)
• Focus on advanced modules for professional readiness

Top Universities for exemptions: 

• University of Bath
• University of Strathclyde
• Oxford Brookes University

Below is a list of universities offering ACCA-accredited programs in UK. These institutions provide hands-on learning, professional modules, and strong exemption pathways, enabling students to complete their ACCA qualification faster. Graduates also gain industry exposure, internship opportunities, and access to top employers, setting a solid foundation for global finance careers.

Detailed Overview of ACCA Universities in UK 2026

1. University of Manchester

• Programs: BSc Accounting, MSc Accounting & Finance
• Exemptions: 6–9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £24,000 tuition + £150–250/week accommodation
• Career Opportunities: KPMG, EY, HSBC, PwC; starting salary £42,000 (₹4,956,000)

2. University of Warwick

• Programs: BSc Accounting & Finance, MSc Financial Management
• Exemptions: Up to 9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £27,000 + £200–300/week
• Career Opportunities: Deloitte, Barclays, EY, PwC; starting salary £44,000 (₹5,192,000)

3. University of Glasgow

• Programs: MA Accountancy, MSc International Accounting & Finance
• Exemptions: 6–9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £22,000 + £150–250/week
• Career Opportunities: PwC, EY, KPMG, HSBC; starting salary £40,000 (₹4,720,000)

4. University of Leeds

• Programs: BSc Accounting & Finance, MSc Financial Risk Management
• Exemptions: 6–9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £23,500 + £130–220/week
• Career Opportunities: Deloitte, EY, HSBC, PwC; starting salary £42,000 (₹4,956,000).

5. Oxford Brookes University

• Programs: BSc Applied Accounting
• Exemptions: Up to 9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £17,000 + £120–200/week
• Career Opportunities: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG; starting salary £35,000 (₹4,130,000)

6. London Metropolitan University

• Programs: BA Accounting, MSc International Accounting
• Exemptions: Up to 9 papers
• Tuition + Accommodation: £16,500 + £180–250/week
• Career Opportunities: KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, EY; starting salary £38,000 (₹4,484,000)

For Indian students applying for ACCA in UK for the 2026–27 intake, admission depends on academic performance and English proficiency. Undergraduate applicants are expected to have strong grades in Commerce, Accounts, or Mathematics, while postgraduate candidates should hold a relevant bachelor’s degree. English proficiency can be demonstrated through  IELTS, Duolingo, or a Medium of Instruction certificate.

• For undergraduate entry to ACCA or related pathways: Completion of Class 12 with at least 65–70% in Commerce, Accounts, or Mathematics.
• For postgraduate ACCA courses in UK: A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related subject with 55–60%.

• IELTS: 6.0 overall (with no band lower than 5.5) is commonly accepted by UK universities. Some may ask for 6.5 depending on the program.
• Duolingo English Test: Universities such as the University of Essex accept 105–120 for undergraduate and postgraduate entry.
• Some institutions allow a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate for waiver if prior education was fully in English.

• Work experience is not mandatory for ACCA entry, but it may be preferred for postgraduate pathways.
• The minimum age to register for ACCA is 18 years.

The application process follows clear steps: choosing an ACCA-accredited university, preparing documents, applying online, and then proceeding to visa and enrollment. Meeting these entry requirements ensures Indian students can access up to nine ACCA exemptions and build a strong base for careers in accounting and finance.

• Step 1: Research and Choose a University or ACCA Course Provider
  • Identify ACCA-accredited universities in UK and review their specific entry requirements, intake dates, and ACCA exemption eligibility.
• Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
  • Collect academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores (IELTS, Duolingo, or MOI), passport copy, personal statement, and any recommendation letters.
• Step 3: Submit Your Application
  • Apply online directly through the university or course provider portal, ensuring all documents are complete and accurate.
• Step 4: Receive Offer Letter
  • Once your application is reviewed, the university will issue a conditional or unconditional offer letter outlining acceptance and any conditions.
• Step 5: Apply for a UK Student Visa
  • Use your offer letter and supporting documents to apply for a UK Student Route visa. Ensure you meet all visa requirements and submit the application on time.
• Step 6: Register and Enrol
  • After obtaining your visa and arriving in the UK, complete university registration, pay any pending fees, and attend orientation to begin your ACCA program.

For Indian students planning to pursue ACCA in UK in 2026–2027, it is important to understand the overall cost structure, including tuition, living expenses, and additional ACCA-related charges. The choice of study route, university, and location can significantly impact the total investment, so careful planning is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.

When combined, the total annual cost of studying in UK for a university-based ACCA program is around £32,000-£45,000 (₹37,76,000-₹53,10,000) in London and £27,000-£39,000 (₹31,86,000-₹46,02,000) outside London, while the standalone ACCA pathway is much lower since only tuition, registration, and exam fees apply.

Studying in UK gives Indian students access to respected universities, wide subject choices, and strong job prospects. Scholarships in UK, such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and university-based awards, lower expenses and make degrees more reachable for middle-class families. With careful planning, these options help reduce the overall cost of studying in UK and allow students to focus on their career goals.

Graduates from these universities secure positions in audit, assurance, management accounting, and corporate finance. Key employers include Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, HSBC, Barclays, and JP Morgan.

Salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer size. ACCA professionals can advance rapidly into senior and specialist roles with higher compensation. ACCA graduates can join audit, assurance, management accounting, and corporate finance roles at firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, HSBC, and Barclays. Starting salaries range from £38,000 to £45,000 (₹44.84 to ₹53.10 LPA), providing a strong foundation for an international career in accountancy.

For 2026–2027, Indian students aiming for ACCA in UK can choose from Oxford Brookes, University of London, Manchester, Warwick, Glasgow, Leeds, and London Metropolitan University. These institutions provide applied accounting knowledge, professional skills modules, ACCA exemptions, and exposure to leading employers. Selecting the right programme ensures a head start in professional accountancy, enabling students to achieve ACCA membership, practical skills, and a successful career in finance globally.

If you need help with the application process, consider seeking guidance from our counsellors, who specialise in UK admissions. LeapScholar can provide expert advice and support throughout the process, including guidance on effectively presenting your alternative language qualifications.