Top ACCA Courses and Accredited Universities in the UK

In today’s global economy, finance professionals don’t just balance books. They steer decisions, manage risks, and power business growth. If you’re serious about building a future in finance, the ACCA course is one of the strongest routes you can take.

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has over 227,000 members and more than half a million students across 176 countries. It’s headquartered in the UK and is globally respected for good reason.

Earning the ACCA qualification proves you’ve got what top employers look for: technical knowledge, sound ethics, and practical skills that work in the real world. Think global banks, Big Four firms, top consulting agencies, or even your own venture. ACCA prepares you for all of it.

This guide breaks down the ACCA course and highlights the best ACCA universities in the UK for 2025. By the end, you’ll know where to study, what to expect, and how to move forward. 

Why Study ACCA In The UK?

Choosing to study ACCA in the UK isn’t just about earning a globally recognised qualification; it’s about placing yourself in one of the most dynamic finance ecosystems in the world. Below are the highlights of studying ACCA in the UK for international students. 

1. Globally Recognised ACCA Learning Partners

The UK has many Platinum and Gold-approved ACCA learning providers, ensuring you receive high-quality education that aligns perfectly with ACCA’s rigorous standards. Universities and institutes offer tailored ACCA pathways, exemptions, and expert faculty, giving you a strong academic edge.

2. Unmatched Industry Exposure

Studying ACCA in the UK opens doors to internships, case competitions, and job fairs with global accounting firms and multinational companies. You’ll learn in the same country where top firms like PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, and EY actively recruit ACCA graduates, often straight from campus.

 3. Post-Study Work Opportunities

With the UK Graduate Route visa, international students can stay back for up to 2 years (3 years for PhDs) after completing their course to work and gain experience. This allows ACCA students to earn and gain practical experience, and even complete the required 36 months of work experience needed for ACCA membership.

 4. Prestige & Global Portability

An ACCA qualification earned in the UK carries significant weight around the world. Employers recognise the UK’s education system for its quality and consistency, making your resume stand out no matter where you go, from Singapore and Dubai to New York and Sydney.

The Top ACCA Universities In The UK In 2025 

The UK is home to several globally recognised universities offering ACCA-accredited programmes. These institutions combine academic excellence with professional training, helping students fast-track their careers in finance and accounting. Below is a list of top UK universities ranked by QS World Rankings 2025 that provide ACCA-aligned courses.

ACCA Accredited Courses In The UK

The UK offers a range of ACCA-accredited courses tailored to students at different academic levels. From undergraduate degrees with ACCA exemptions to postgraduate programmes combined with professional training, here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. BA (Hons) / BAcc in Accounting and Finance with ACCA

An undergraduate programme combining academic learning with ACCA exam exemptions. The course covers core accounting principles such as financial management, auditing, taxation, and management accounting.

Universities Offering This Programme:

• University of Scotland – BAcc (Hons) in Accounting
• University of South Wales – Offers direct entry and Foundation in Accountancy options

Eligibility:

• High school completion with accounts as a major subject
• IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 78
• For the University of South Wales: Minimum of 2 A-levels and 3 GCSEs in Maths and English
• Students lacking GCSEs can opt for the Foundation programme

2. MSc Accounting and Finance with ACCA

This postgraduate programme combines a master’s degree in accounting and finance with ACCA’s professional-level preparation. It enhances both academic and practical expertise, helping students progress quickly in the finance industry.

Universities Offering This Programme:

• University of Bolton – MSc in Finance and Accounting (ACCA accredited)
• Glasgow Caledonian University – ACCA-aligned postgraduate course
• Dorset College (Ireland) – MSc and MBA in Finance & Accounting endorsed by ACCA

Eligibility:

• An undergraduate degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field
• IELTS score of 6.0
• For GCU: Major in a business or finance-related course is required

3. MSc International Professional Accounting (with ACCA Standards)

A postgraduate programme closely aligned with ACCA’s professional curriculum. Students are trained in high-level accounting competencies that meet international standards, increasing their global employability.

University Offering This Programme:

• Birmingham City University

Eligibility:

• Completion of or exemption from ACCA’s Applied Knowledge & Skills levels
• First-class undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, or business
• IELTS score of 6.0
• ACCA membership registration is required before admission

4. ACCA Strategic Professional Level / Professional Accountancy

This programme is designed to help students prepare for ACCA’s strategic-level papers. It offers full-time and part-time options and focuses entirely on fulfilling the ACCA requirements.

Universities Offering This Programme:

• University of South Wales – Offers professional-level training as an ACCA Platinum Approved Learning Partner
• University of Bolton – Offers standalone strategic professional-level ACCA courses
• London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) – Offers individual modules and a combined ACCA + MBA programme

Eligibility:

• 2 A-levels and 3 GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths
• IELTS score of 6.0
• Registration with ACCA as a student/member is mandatory
• For LSBF: Basic knowledge of finance and accounts is also required

5. ACCA + MBA / ACCA + MSc Combined Programmes

These dual-degree options offer students both a professional ACCA qualification and a postgraduate degree (MBA or MSc), helping them accelerate their career progression in the global finance sector.

University Offering This Programme:

• London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) – ACCA + Global MBA / MSc in Finance & Investments

Eligibility:

• 2 A-levels and 3 GCSEs with proficiency in Maths and English
• IELTS score of 6.0
• ACCA student registration is required
• Previous finance knowledge preferred

ACCA Fee Structure: What You Will Pay Along the Way

Pursuing the ACCA qualification involves a series of fees at different stages, from registering as a student to sitting for your final exams. These charges cover registration, exemptions, exam entries, and essential modules like ethics training. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your ACCA journey financially.

Registration and Subscription Fees

Before you can start taking ACCA exams, you will need to register as a student and keep your account active each year. This section outlines the key fees involved in the registration and subscription process.

Exemption Fees

If you are granted exemptions based on prior qualifications, the following fees apply per exemption:

Exam Entry Fees

Fees for each exam entry vary based on the exam level and entry period:

Note: Late entry fees apply if you register after the standard entry deadline.

Ethics and Professional Skills Module

This module costs £81 and is required before taking the Strategic Professional exams.

This module is essential for developing the ethical and professional skills required for the Strategic Professional exams and should be completed before attempting them.

ACCA In The UK: Exam Structure 

To earn your ACCA qualification, you must pass a series of exams designed to test your technical knowledge, business acumen, and professional ethics. These exams are known for their rigour but are structured to align with the skills you’ll gain throughout your ACCA-accredited university programme. Let’s break down the three main exam levels and what to expect from each.

Each set of ACCA exams may take around 12 to 18 months to complete. The good news? If you’re enrolled in an ACCA-accredited UK university, you can take these exams alongside your degree, helping you save time and fast-track your qualification.

Top Career Opportunities: ACCA In The UK

Earning an ACCA qualification can significantly accelerate your career in accounting and finance. Whether you are just starting out or aiming for leadership roles, ACCA opens doors to a wide range of job opportunities across industries. 

Pursuing an ACCA qualification in the UK is more than just earning a globally respected certification; it’s a transformative step towards becoming a strategic finance professional in a competitive global landscape. From undergraduate pathways to advanced postgraduate programmes, UK universities offer a comprehensive blend of academic rigour, industry relevance, and career-ready training. Whether you envision working with the Big Four, leading corporate financial decisions, or becoming a consultant in international markets, the UK’s ACCA-accredited programmes are designed to make that vision a reality.

And once you have shortlisted your university, don’t forget one of the most crucial parts of your journey: securing the right student accommodation. At UniAcco, we help ACCA students like you find top-rated, all-inclusive student housing near leading UK universities. With options close to campuses, budget-friendly rent plans, and zero hidden costs, finding your home abroad just got easier.

FAQs 

1. How much is the ACCA course fee in the UK? 

The ACCA course in the UK includes a one-time registration fee of £89 and an annual subscription fee of £137. Exam fees range from £98 to £278, depending on the level. Tuition fees for ACCA-accredited programmes vary by institution and may include additional costs.

2. Is ACCA better than CA in the UK?

ACCA is generally more recognised in the UK than CA (Chartered Accountancy from India) because it aligns with UK and international accounting standards and is tailored for global finance careers. While both are respected, employers in the UK often prefer ACCA due to its local relevance and broader international reach.

3. Am I allowed to work in the UK while pursuing my ACCA qualification?

Yes, international students pursuing ACCA in the UK on Student visas are typically allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during term time. This allows students to gain practical experience and support their living expenses while studying.

4. What is the duration of ACCA in the UK?

The duration of the ACCA qualification in the UK typically ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on factors such as study mode (full-time or part-time), prior academic qualifications, and the number of exams taken per session. Students with relevant degrees may be eligible for exemptions, potentially shortening the completion time to as little as 1 to 2 years.