MSc Finance in UK (2025): Top Universities, Eligibility, Fees & Scope

An MSc Finance in the UK offers an intensive, 1-year program designed to teach you financial expertise and analytical skills. With some of the best universities, strong industry connections (Goldman Sachs and HSBC), and an intensive research and industry-specific curriculum, the UK is one of the best places to study a master’s in Finance. 

Here are a few reasons why you should pursue an MSc in Finance in the UK:

Top-Ranking Schools

The QS Business Master’s rankings cover almost every B-school in the UK that offers an MSc in Finance. Some of the top schools include Said Business School, Judge’s School of Business, and Imperial College. They maintain high academic standards, combining theoretical and practical knowledge.

Relevant & Up-to-date Curriculum

When you’re studying Finance, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the recent trends and financial developments, along with traditional theories. Just focusing on theory is not enough to gain a competitive edge in today’s job market. An MSc in Finance in the UK teaches you asset markets, corporate finance, portfolio management, and private equity.

Industry Connections 

The UK is a global financial hub, which not only places you in close proximity to top MNCs and banks like HSBC and Barclays, but also allows you many opportunities to network with people working in these companies. Universities in the UK organise workshops, fairs and networking events, which helps you build a connection with prospective employers.

High Earning Potential 

Finance is one of the highest-paying majors in the world. An MSc Finance graduate can earn between £30,000 and £50,000 (₹35 lakhs to ₹58 lakhs) a year at an entry-level job, and when you progress in your career, you can earn up to £100,000 (over ₹1 cr) a year as a mid-career professional. 

Top UK universities for MSc Finance include the London School of Economics, the University of Oxford, Imperial College London, and Warwick Business School. The UK has multiple universities under QS 100, which offer excellent industry-specific programs for your MSc in Finance.

When you apply, remember that most of the intakes for the MSc in Finance are either in August or September. So, choose your intakes accordingly. 

Here we’ve compiled a list of top UK universities for MSc Finance, and other essential details like their QS 2025 ranking, intake, and various deadlines that you need to know: 

Let’s discuss each university in detail:

University of Oxford

University of Oxford is one of the best MSc Finance programs in the UK. Oxford offers two types of finance programs catering to the needs of its students - Financial Economics & Fintech programs. The teaching is a blend of academics and practical applications designed in consultation with leading financial recruiters, preparing you for leadership roles. 

University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is another top MSc Finance university in the UK. Students can expect to get jobs within a three-month duration, as the students’ employment rates are over 86%. The university offers first-class training that is required to shape a promising future for Finance graduates.

London School of Economics

The London School of Economics and Political Science has the best-ranked accounting and finance program in the world. LSE has a very rigorous curriculum for its 1-year MSc Finance program, and is mainly known for its focus on quantitative analysis. 

London Business School

London Business School’s MSc Finance in the UK boasts a global reputation. Over 95% of graduates secure top finance roles, with average starting salaries exceeding £50,000 (₹57.5 lakhs), driven by a strategic curriculum and a holistic and elite network.

Imperial College London

Imperial College London’s MSc Finance program has five modules, online pre-study, foundation, core, electives, and project modules. The program also offers an optional international elective to help finance graduates gain international experience in this field. It is amongst the top Finance universities in the UK.

University of Warwick

Warwick Business School offers an innovative MSc Finance program, ranked among the top 10 globally. Its graduates achieve an average starting salary of £42,000 (₹48.3 lakhs) and a 92% employment rate within six months.

University of Manchester

Alliance Manchester Business School delivers a top-ranked MSc Finance in the UK. Graduates boast a 90% employment rate, with average starting salaries around £40,000/ ₹46.2 lakhs reflecting strong industry partnerships and practical learning approaches.

University of Leeds

The University of Leeds offers a dynamic MSc Finance program. With an 85% employment rate within six months and industry collaborations, its curriculum integrates advanced financial analytics and real-world case studies.

University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh blends theory with practical applications to enhance the learning experience. Did you also know that this university is located in the UK's second-largest financial center, making it the hub for more financial expert interactions?

Cranfield University

Cranfield University’s MSc Finance in the UK program emphasizes project-based learning. With a 90% employment rate and strong links to aerospace and tech finance, graduates earn average starting salaries of approximately £38,000/ 43.7 Lakhs.

Your one-year MSc Finance in the UK combines core modules and electives that match your interests. You'll learn key financial theories, quantitative methods, and market strategies. A final project or dissertation allows you to dive deep into a finance topic and connect academic ideas with real-world practice. 

Here is what you can choose:

Pursuing an MSc in Finance in the UK has specific requirements and eligibility criteria that need to be met. While these requirements differ from one university to another, a standard list is followed by all.

Check out everything you need to apply for MSc programs in the UK 

Eligibility Criteria

1.  A Bachelor’s Degree

An undergraduate degree is required with either first-class or 2:1 honours from any recognized university or international equivalent. A few universities also accept upper second-class honours degrees from a recognized university or international equivalent. Ensure that you have studied either one of the disciplines:

• Mathematics
• Finance
• Science
• Economics
• Engineering

2.  GMAT/GRE

GMAT or GRE scores are not mandatory, but are highly recommended by most universities offering MSc Finance programs in the UK. A score of GMAT, 650 or GRE, 320 and above can significantly strengthen your application.

3.  English Language Requirements

Another MSc Finance in the UK requirement is passing an English Language test. You can take up any of the below-listed English exams and meet these scores:

• IELTS: 6.0 - 7.5
• TOEFL: iBT: 100
• Duolingo English Test- 125

Suggested: Know the difference between TOEFL and IELTS

4.  A-Level Mathematics

Students should have studied either A-level mathematics or any other subject equivalent to it. Basic knowledge on this subject is required to pursue MSc Finance UK.

5.  Work Experience

Exhibiting professional experience can help strengthen your application even further.

6.  Passport & Student Visa

Obtaining a visa and a passport is a must for international students who want to secure admission to any foreign institution. To study at UK universities, you must have a US student visa for application. Make sure you can apply for the visa at least three months before traveling to the country.

Apart from the above requirements, there may be some additional requirements. Make sure you check the university’s official websites to understand any university-specific requirements.

Documents Required

There are a few documents that need to be submitted when applying for an MSc Finance in the UK.

Ensure all the below-mentioned are checked:

UG Degree Certificate

You need a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, with a good GPA, to be eligible for an MSc in Finance in the UK/

Statement of Purpose

An SOP outlines your academic background, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing the course, showing how you align with the program’s goals.

Letter of Recommendation

You need 2-3 professional/ academic letters of recommendation that provide insights into your skills and potential from professors or employers, helping the admissions committee assess your suitability.

GMAT/GRE Scores

Some universities may need you to submit a valid GRE or GMAT score for an MSc in Finance in the UK. This demonstrates your quantitative and analytical abilities through standardized test performance.

English Language scores

As a non-native speaker of English, you will have to submit your English proficiency test scores, either in the form of TOEFL or IELTS. 

Work Experience Letters

Because an MSc in Finance is an industry-specific degree, and also needs an idea of general management, you might need work experience letters that detail your professional background and relevant industry experience.

CV/ Resume

This document shows your academic achievements, work experience, and skills. It should highlight relevant coursework, internships, and projects.

Pursuing an MSc Finance in the UK involves researching programs, meeting academic and language requirements, preparing essential documents, and applying online.

• Step 1: Identify universities and programs that match your career goals.
• Step 2: Check academic prerequisites, language proficiency, and any additional tests (e.g., GMAT/GRE).
• Step 3: Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, a CV, and a personal statement.
• Step 4: Complete and submit your online application along with the required fee.
• Step 5: Attend an interview if required by the university.
• Step 6: Upon receiving an offer, accept it and start your student visa application.

The MSc Finance in the UK fees can be divided into two categories, tuition fees and the cost of living. Let’s understand them one by one:

Tuition Fee

United Kingdom usually has a high tuition fee, be it in public or private universities. ​The tuition fees for MSc Finance programs in the UK vary significantly across universities. 

• The Oxbridge universities offering an MSc in Finance are usually more expensive than other universities in the UK, despite being partially publicly funded. Their tuition fees range from £30,000 to £50,000 per year (₹34 lakhs to ₹57 lakhs).
• London School of Economics is a public research university, and you can pursue an MS in the UK at around £48,500 (₹56 Lakhs)
• Some affordable universities in the UK for an MS are Cranfield University and the University of Leeds.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the UK while pursuing an MSc in Finance can be quite steep. The average cost of living in the UK is around £1400 (₹1.6 lakhs) per month. Living in cities like London and Manchester will be more expensive, considering that they are the UK’s financial hubs. If you want to budget your expenses, you can choose top universities in other cities like Edinburgh. 

The UK is one of the most expensive countries to pursue a Master’s in. An MSc in Finance is even more expensive. But the UK offers multiple scholarships for Indian students, which can help alleviate your financial burdens. Many scholarships, like the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and the Clarendon Fund, cover full tuition fees. 

Here’s a list of top scholarships for an MSc in Finance in UK:

After graduating with an MSc Finance degree in UK, you can pursue diverse roles like a financial analyst, investment banker, risk manager, portfolio manager, and financial advisor. Finance usually has high salaries, with the average being £45,000 (₹51 lakhs). Opportunities span corporate finance, consulting, and fintech across major hubs like London.

Here are some of the top job roles you can pursue after an MSc in Finance in the UK.

The UK is well known for its well-established and highly ranked education system and prestigious universities, which is why pursuing MSc Finance here will only shape your career path with better opportunities. If you still require expert assistance to ensure that your decision is the right one, you can consult Yocket counsellors today.