Want to Study Finance in the UK? Here are the Top Programs for Students from Canada

Yes! In fact, 30% of the top 10 best universities in the world for finance are in the UK. Not only this, but the financial sector contributes largely to the UK’s economy more than other countries across the globe and has been this way for centuries. The UK’s capital city is noted as a world-wide financial hub and the country has international recognition for its financial expertise across its schools, banks, and firms.

The UK government has also stressed the importance of stimulating economic growth with regulatory reforms in financial services, including the UK’s Financial Services Growth and Competitiveness Strategy. Through this strategy, the UK has identified the financial sector as one of the main drivers of growth in the coming decade. This brings several opportunities for new graduates to help shape the future of the UK economy.

Yes, finance can be a lucrative and satisfying career with lots of growth, bringing many opportunities across various sectors. It is well-suited for data-driven, analytical people who enjoy problem-solving and strategic thinking, are good at mathematics, and work well with numbers. Depending on your specialization, you may require additional qualifications including:

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

• Financial Risk Manager (FRM)

• Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

After graduation, you can work in areas such as:

• Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)

• Fintech and Financial Innovation

• Treasury and Corporate Finance

• Risk Management

• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)

Your salary will depend on your field and years of experience. Immediately after graduating from your finance program, you can expect to earn an average of CAD $55,000.

Here is an overview of the average salary depending on your specialization:

• Banking and finance: CAD $64,500

• Accounting and professional services: CAD $69,100

• Investment banking: CAD $101,500

Here are the best universities for accounting and finance in the UK, according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. In this chart, you’ll also find which schools are considered target schools for recruitment for top banks and financial service firms in the UK.

* Considered one of the UK’s finance target schools

The length of your program will vary depending on your level of study. Here’s an overview of how long undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in finance will take to complete.

Undergraduate Degree:

• Bachelor’s in finance: 2-4 years

Postgraduate Degrees

• Master’s degree in finance: 1-2 years

• Doctorate Degree or PhD in Finance: 2 - 6 years

• Diploma in Finance: 2 years

Here’s the typical course structure for a financial program in the UK:

• Foundational and specialized courses.

  What is offered will depend on the school and your level of study, but typically you will receive lessons in finance, economics, and accounting accompanied by optional courses in subjects such as financial technology, sustainable finance, behavioural finance,

  business analytics, investment banking, and more.

• Practical and theoretical instruction.

  Majority of financial programs offer both practical and theoretical knowledge taught through lectures, seminars, and case studies. You may also receive a work placement and opportunities to engage with experts in the field.

• Evaluation and thesis.

  You can expect to be evaluated via exams, tests, group projects, assignments, and presentations, as well as a thesis component, depending on your program and degree.

According to the British Council, interested applicants can typically expect the following for general entry requirements for finance programs:

• 80% in math, business, or accounting

• Overall average of 85%

• International Baccalaureate points: 35

• IELTS: 6.5 overall, minimum of 6.0 in any component

• Valid student visa

Your school will have their current entry requirements for a standard offer and contextual offer for your degree, so it’s always in your best interest to check their page for the most accurate information. If you have questions about admission requirements, it helps to speak with an education counsellor who can advice you on deadlines as well as required documents.

Your tuition fees will vary depending on your school and level of study. Refer to your school’s annual tuition and fee schedule for more information on how much your program will cost. An education counsellor will also be able to guide you depending upon the program that best aligns with your academic or career goals.

There are several opportunities for international students to find funding for studies in finance in the UK. Scholarships and financial support available include:

• Chevening Scholarships

• British Council UK Scholarships

• Scottish Government Scholarships

• UK and Wales Scholarships

• Student Action for Refugees Scholarships

• Displaced Student Opportunities UK

• Commonwealth Scholarship Commission

The Government of Canada also offers a directory for students who are looking to fund their studies abroad in the UK. The programs listed for finance degrees include:

• Canada Graduate Scholarships - Doctoral program

• CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program

• EDC International Business Scholarships

• National Killam Program

• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

IDP Education’s Find a Scholarship tool is also a great resource. Get a glimpse of all the UK finance scholarships available here.

As a study destination, the UK has lots to offer international students. It is a diverse, multi-faith society with a vibrant culture and ample opportunities to travel the country or the rest of Europe. As a Canadian student coming to study finance, here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Ensure you have a valid visa. Once you receive your letter of acceptance, you will be required to apply for your tier 4 student visa. Learn more about the student visa process here.

2. Apply for health coverage. As an international student you will require the Immigration Health Surcharges (IHS).

3. Get support in perfecting your application. The UK’s reputation in finance means schools are competitive. For extra support and guidance to create a strong application, reach out to IDP Canada’s British Council-certified counsellors.

4. Open a bank account before you arrive. You will need to set up a bank account in the UK during your studies. Read more about the process here.

5. Visa options after graduation. The UK offers both the Graduate route visa and the Skilled worker route if you want to remain in the UK after you complete your studies.

For domestic and international students from Canada interested in pursuing a finance degree, the UK offers globally recognized schools known for their graduates’ success and ample opportunities to contribute to their thriving financial sector once you complete your degree.

If you’re interested in studying in the UK from Canada, IDP Canada can guide you. Book a free call now. Have more questions about what it’s like to study in the UK? Explore our resources.

An IDP counsellor can help you create a personalized study abroad plan that covers everything including:

• Applying and getting accepted

• Securing your Visa

• Arranging accommodations, banking, and health insurance

• Lining up any other service you may need to succeed.

Best of all, because of our partnerships in the UK, these services are offered by IDP at no cost to you!

Book your appointment with IDP Canada now!