Quick Answer: The UK offers over 150 accounting degree programs across top-ranked universities, with tuition fees ranging from £15,000-£45,000 annually for Saudi students. Popular destinations include University of Edinburgh, LSE, and University of Manchester, all accepting IELTS 6.5+ and requiring no GMAT for undergraduate programs.

The United Kingdom has established itself as a premier destination for accounting education, particularly attractive to Saudi students seeking internationally recognized qualifications. With the Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizing economic diversification and the growing demand for qualified financial professionals, UK accounting degrees offer Saudi students a pathway to lucrative career opportunities both domestically and internationally.

This comprehensive guide explores the best accounting programs available to Saudi students in 2026, covering everything from admission requirements and visa processes to career prospects and financial considerations specific to students from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Why Choose UK for Accounting Studies as a Saudi Student?

The UK's accounting education system offers several advantages that align perfectly with Saudi Arabia's economic transformation goals. British accounting qualifications are globally recognized and highly valued by multinational corporations operating in the Middle East, including major Saudi companies like Aramco, SABIC, and the Saudi Investment Fund.

UK universities maintain strong partnerships with professional accounting bodies such as ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants), and ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales). These partnerships often provide exemptions from professional exams, significantly reducing the time Saudi graduates need to achieve full professional certification.

The cultural and religious considerations are also well-accommodated in UK universities, with many institutions offering halal food options, prayer facilities, and active Islamic societies that help Saudi students maintain their religious practices while studying abroad.

Top UK Universities for Accounting - Saudi Student Focused

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

LSE's Accounting and Finance BSc program consistently ranks among the top 3 globally and is particularly popular among Saudi students. The program offers strong connections to major financial institutions in London, including several Islamic banking organizations that actively recruit Saudi graduates.

Key Details for Saudi Students:

• Annual tuition: £25,608 (2026)
• IELTS requirement: 7.0 overall, 7.0 in each component
• Saudi government scholarship eligible
• Strong alumni network in Saudi Arabia's financial sector

University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Business School offers excellent accounting programs with a global perspective, making it ideal for Saudi students planning to work in international markets. The university has a dedicated Middle East office that provides specialized support for Saudi students.

Key Details for Saudi Students:

• Annual tuition: £28,950 (2026)
• IELTS requirement: 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each component
• Offers January intake suitable for Saudi academic calendar
• Strong placement support with Big 4 accounting firms

University of Manchester

Manchester Business School's accounting programs are highly regarded, with particularly strong research in Islamic finance and accounting - directly relevant to Saudi students interested in Sharia-compliant financial practices.

Key Details for Saudi Students:

• Annual tuition: £26,000 (2026)
• IELTS requirement: 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each component
• Large Saudi student community (200+ students)
• Islamic finance specialization available

Entry Requirements for Saudi Students

Academic Requirements

Saudi students applying for UK accounting programs must meet specific academic criteria that vary by degree level. For undergraduate programs, students typically need:

• Tawjihiyya (Secondary School Certificate): Minimum 85% overall with strong performance in Mathematics and English
• Foundation Programs: Many Saudi students benefit from completing a foundation year, particularly those whose Tawjihiyya doesn't meet direct entry requirements
• International Qualifications: A-levels, IB, or American High School Diploma are also accepted

For postgraduate programs, Saudi students need:

• Bachelor's Degree: Minimum 2:2 (UK equivalent) or 3.0 GPA from a recognized Saudi university
• Professional Experience: Some programs prefer 2-3 years of relevant work experience
• GMAT/GRE: Generally not required for most UK accounting masters programs

English Language Requirements

IELTS remains the most widely accepted English proficiency test among UK universities. Most accounting programs require:

• Undergraduate: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall
• Postgraduate: IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall
• Alternative Tests: TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic also accepted

Saudi students can take IELTS preparation courses at British Council centers in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and other major cities.

Course Structure and Specializations

Undergraduate Accounting Programs (3-4 Years)

UK accounting undergraduate programs typically follow a structured progression:

Year 1: Foundation modules including Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Business Mathematics, and Economics

Year 2: Intermediate Accounting, Corporate Finance, Business Law, and Statistics

Year 3: Advanced Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, and elective specializations

Year 4 (where applicable): Professional placement or dissertation

Popular Specializations for Saudi Students

1. Islamic Finance and Banking: Increasingly popular given Saudi Arabia's leadership in Islamic banking
2. International Accounting: Valuable for Saudi students planning to work with multinational corporations
3. Management Accounting: High demand in Saudi's diversifying economy
4. Forensic Accounting: Growing field with opportunities in both public and private sectors

When exploring different program options, Saudi students can browse UK courses to compare various accounting specializations and find programs that best match their career objectives and academic background.

Visa Requirements and Process for Saudi Students

Saudi students enjoy a relatively straightforward visa application process due to the strong diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Student Visa Requirements

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Issued by the chosen university
• Financial Evidence: Proof of £1,334 per month for living costs (£15,180 for London)
• Academic Qualifications: Transcripts and certificates
• English Proficiency: IELTS or equivalent test results
• Tuberculosis Test: Required from approved clinics in Saudi Arabia

Visa Processing Time

Saudi students typically receive visa decisions within 3-6 weeks when applying from Saudi Arabia. Premium services can reduce this to 5-10 working days for urgent applications.

Financial Considerations and Scholarships

Tuition Fees by University Type

Russell Group Universities: £25,000-£45,000 annually Other Top Universities: £18,000-£30,000 annually Modern Universities: £15,000-£25,000 annually

Living Costs for Saudi Students

Living expenses vary significantly by location:

London: £12,000-£18,000 annually Major Cities (Manchester, Edinburgh): £9,000-£12,000 annually Smaller Cities: £7,000-£10,000 annually

Scholarship Opportunities

Saudi Government Scholarships: The King Abdullah Scholarship Program covers full tuition, living expenses, and health insurance for eligible Saudi students pursuing accounting degrees at approved UK universities.

University Scholarships: Many UK universities offer merit-based scholarships specifically for international students, including Saudis, ranging from £2,000-£10,000 annually.

Professional Body Scholarships: ACCA and CIMA offer scholarships for high-achieving students, particularly valuable for Saudi students planning professional certification.

Career Prospects for Saudi Graduates

Employment Opportunities in Saudi Arabia

UK accounting graduates are highly sought after in Saudi Arabia's expanding economy. Key employment sectors include:

• Government Sector: Ministry of Finance, Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority, Capital Market Authority
• Oil and Gas: Aramco, SABIC, and other energy sector companies
• Banking and Finance: Saudi banks increasingly value UK-qualified accountants
• Consulting: Big 4 firms (PwC, KPMG, EY, Deloitte) actively recruit UK graduates

Starting Salaries

Saudi accounting graduates with UK degrees typically earn:

• Entry Level: 8,000-12,000 SAR monthly
• Mid-Level (3-5 years): 15,000-25,000 SAR monthly
• Senior Level (5+ years): 25,000-45,000 SAR monthly

Professional Certification Pathways

UK accounting degrees provide excellent preparation for professional certifications:

• SOCPA (Saudi): Required for practicing as a CPA in Saudi Arabia
• ACCA: Globally recognized with strong presence in Saudi market
• CMA: Valuable for management accounting roles
• CIA: Increasingly important for internal audit positions

Application Timeline and Process

Successful Saudi applicants typically follow this timeline:

18 months before: Begin IELTS preparation and university research 12 months before: Take IELTS, finalize university choices 10 months before: Submit UCAS applications (undergraduate) or direct applications (postgraduate) 6 months before: Receive offers, apply for scholarships 4 months before: Apply for student visa 2 months before: Arrange accommodation, prepare for departure

The application process requires careful planning, particularly for Saudi students who may need additional time for document authentication and visa processing. Early preparation is crucial for securing places at top-ranked programs.

Studying accounting in the UK offers Saudi students access to world-class education, global career opportunities, and professional networks that extend far beyond graduation. With proper planning and preparation, Saudi students can leverage UK accounting qualifications to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia's economic transformation while building successful international careers.

Key Statistics

📊 Over 150 accounting degree programs available across UK universities in 2026

💰 Tuition fees range from £15,000-£45,000 annually for international students

🎓 85% of UK accounting graduates find employment within 6 months of graduation

📈 Average starting salary for Saudi accounting graduates: 8,000-12,000 SAR monthly

🌍 UK accounting qualifications recognized in 180+ countries worldwide

👥 Over 2,500 Saudi students currently studying business and accounting in UK universities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for accounting courses in UK universities as a Saudi student?

Saudi students can apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs or directly to universities for postgraduate courses. You'll need your Tawjihiyya certificate, IELTS scores (6.5+ typically), and supporting documents. The application deadline for September intake is usually January 15th for UCAS applications. Start the process 12-18 months before your intended start date to allow time for visa processing and scholarship applications.

What is the difference between accounting degrees and professional accounting qualifications?

Accounting degrees provide broad academic foundation in accounting principles, business, and finance, typically taking 3-4 years to complete. Professional qualifications like ACCA or CIMA are vocational certifications focused on practical skills and can be studied alongside or after a degree. Many UK universities offer degree programs that provide exemptions from professional qualification exams, giving Saudi students the best of both worlds.

How much does it cost to study accounting in UK including living expenses?

Total annual costs range from £25,000-£65,000 depending on the university and location. Tuition fees are £15,000-£45,000 annually, while living costs are £7,000-£18,000 per year (higher in London). Saudi students should budget approximately £100,000-£200,000 for a complete undergraduate degree, though government scholarships can cover these costs for eligible students.

Which UK universities offer the best accounting programs for career prospects in Saudi Arabia?

LSE, University of Edinburgh, and University of Manchester are particularly strong for Saudi students due to their global reputation and alumni networks in the Middle East. LSE excels for finance careers, Edinburgh offers Islamic finance specializations, and Manchester has strong Big 4 accounting firm connections. These universities are also recognized by major Saudi employers and government scholarship programs.

Can I work part-time while studying accounting in UK as a Saudi student?

Yes, Saudi students on Tier 4/Student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Many accounting students find part-time work in bookkeeping, tax preparation during busy seasons, or retail roles. This experience helps with living costs and provides valuable UK work experience that employers value when you return to Saudi Arabia.

What are the visa requirements for Saudi students studying accounting in UK?

Saudi students need a Student visa (formerly Tier 4) which requires a CAS from the university, proof of £1,334 monthly living funds, IELTS scores, tuberculosis test from approved Saudi clinics, and academic transcripts. The process typically takes 3-6 weeks from Saudi Arabia. You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts, and the visa allows you to arrive in UK up to one week before course commencement.

Key Takeaways

✅ UK offers 150+ accounting programs with tuition ranging £15,000-£45,000 annually

✅ LSE, Edinburgh, and Manchester are top choices for Saudi students with strong Middle East connections

✅ IELTS 6.5+ required for most programs, with foundation years available for additional preparation

✅ Saudi government scholarships available through King Abdullah Program covering full costs

✅ UK accounting graduates earn 8,000-12,000 SAR monthly starting salary in Saudi Arabia

✅ Student visa allows 20 hours weekly part-time work providing valuable UK experience