The United Kingdom is one of the most popular countries for ACCA professionals. The average salary of ACCA in the UK starts at around £28,000 per year for freshers. With experience, it can grow to £60,000 or more. Some senior professionals earn £100,000+ in top finance roles.
The UK job market values ACCA because it is a UK-based qualification. ACCA teaches global accounting skills, including audit, IFRS, tax, and financial reporting. These match the needs of top companies in the UK. That is why ACCA professionals work in banks, audit firms, government, and multinational companies.
Why ACCA is in Demand in UK?
ACCA is a UK-based qualification. So, it holds great value in the UK job market. Employers in both public and private sectors trust ACCA-qualified professionals.
Global recognition
The UK accepts ACCA as a professional standard in finance. Thousands of employers from top firms and startups look for ACCA members for their accounting and audit needs.
Real business focus
The ACCA course covers IFRS, UK taxation, risk management, financial reporting, and business strategy. These subjects help in real jobs. That’s why companies in the UK prefer ACCA candidates.
ACCA job stability and growth
Finance jobs offer high job security. Even during economic slowdown, firms need finance professionals to manage money, taxes, and risks. ACCA holders often move from one department to another easily.
Entry-Level ACCA Salary in the UK
Freshers who complete ACCA and look for their first job in the UK usually start with junior roles. These roles may include titles like Accounts Assistant, Finance Trainee, or Audit Associate.
Average salary range for freshers
The ACCA starting salary in UK for freshers ranges between £28,000 and £35,000 per year. This depends on your city, company size, and interview performance.
What affects entry-level salary?
- Number of ACCA papers passed
- Previous internship or work experience
- City of job (London pays more than other cities)
- Skills in Excel, Tally, SAP, or QuickBooks
- Communication and interview performance
Example job titles and salaries
| Job Role | Average Salary (GBP/year) |
| Accounts Assistant | £28,000 – £30,000 |
| Junior Auditor | £29,000 – £33,000 |
| Finance Trainee | £30,000 – £34,000 |
| Tax Assistant | £28,500 – £31,000 |
Entry-level jobs help you gain practical knowledge. Once you complete all 13 papers and gain membership, your salary increases.
Mid-Level ACCA Salary in the UK
After 3 to 5 years of work, ACCA professionals take on bigger roles. They also become ACCA members by this time, which increases salary.
Average mid-level salary
The average salary of ACCA in the UK at mid-level is between £40,000 and £60,000 per year. This applies to job roles like Audit Senior, Financial Analyst, or Management Accountant.
What mid-level roles include
You may lead a small team, check financial reports, advise clients, or prepare budgets. Some people work in tax planning, while others manage accounts for big clients.
Example job titles and salaries
| Job Title | Average Salary (GBP/year) |
| Audit Senior | £42,000 – £55,000 |
| Financial Analyst | £45,000 – £60,000 |
| Tax Specialist | £40,000 – £52,000 |
| Management Accountant | £43,000 – £58,000 |
Senior-Level ACCA Salary in the UK
At the senior level, ACCA professionals manage teams, handle large clients, and make financial decisions. These roles require strong leadership and years of experience. The ACCA salary after qualification in the UK with 7 to 10+ years of experience can go up to £70,000 – £100,000 or more. Salaries are higher in cities like London or in multinational companies.
High-level job roles
These may include Finance Manager, Senior Tax Manager, Risk Head, or even CFO in some cases. These jobs also come with bonuses, pensions, and other benefits.
| Job Title | Average Salary (GBP/year) |
| Finance Manager | £60,000 – £85,000 |
| Senior Auditor | £65,000 – £75,000 |
| Risk Head | £70,000 – £90,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer | £90,000 – £150,000+ |
Factors that Affect ACCA Salary in UK
The salary of an ACCA-qualified professional in the UK depends on multiple variables. While ACCA is globally respected, its demand in the UK is even higher due to the region’s IFRS-based financial environment. Factors such as experience, role, industry, location, and skills all influence how much an ACCA candidate earns. Let’s explore each factor in detail from an Indian student’s viewpoint planning to build a finance career in the UK.
Qualification Level: Student vs Affiliate vs Member
Your qualification status greatly affects your ACCA salary in the UK. Students usually start in trainee roles with lower pay, while affiliates can secure analyst or junior accountant positions. Full members earn the most, often exceeding £40,000 annually. Completing all ACCA requirements unlocks better opportunities and higher packages.
Years of Experience
Experience is one of the strongest factors that influence salary. Fresh ACCA professionals with 0–2 years earn lower wages compared to those with 5+ years. As you gain expertise, your role and responsibilities grow, leading to better compensation. UK employers value consistent, relevant experience in audit, finance, or reporting.
Location in the UK
Where you work in the UK plays a big role in salary. London offers the highest packages, while cities like Birmingham or Edinburgh pay moderately. Smaller towns offer lower salaries but may have a lower cost of living. Your choice of location should balance earnings and lifestyle.
Industry or Sector
Different industries offer different salary ranges for ACCA professionals. Banking, energy, and tech usually offer the highest pay, while audit firms and public sector roles pay less. Each sector values unique skills and expertise. Choosing the right industry can fast-track your financial growth.
Job Role and Responsibility
The type of role you take on directly impacts your salary. Junior roles like assistant accountants earn less, while finance managers or analysts make significantly more. With greater responsibility comes better pay and promotion chances. Specialized roles are often more rewarding financially.
Soft and Technical Skills
Your skills can increase your salary even more than your job title. Knowing tools like Excel, Power BI, or SAP is highly valuable in the UK. Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills are also crucial. Employers prefer ACCA professionals who are both technically sound and confident.
Type of Employer: Big 4 vs Industry
Salaries differ between Big 4 firms and other companies. Big 4 jobs offer brand value and structured growth, while MNCs may offer better pay for similar roles. Startups give learning freedom but lower salaries. Your employer type decides your career pace and financial gain.
Certifications and Additional Qualifications
Extra certifications can boost your salary and job chances. Courses like CFA, DipIFR, or Data Analytics are highly preferred in the UK. These add credibility and show you’re willing to learn beyond ACCA. Upskilling makes you stand out in a competitive job market.
ACCA Salary in UK for International Students
Many Indian and international students study ACCA in the UK and ask about job opportunities. The ACCA jobs in the UK for international students often start at £28,000 – £32,000 per year. Students who complete all papers and apply for post-study work visas get good job chances.
Tips to increase chances:
- Apply for internships during your ACCA studies
- Build strong English and communication skills
- Use LinkedIn and job portals
- Get trained in UK tax laws, Excel, and business software
Top Companies Hiring ACCA in the UK
Many top UK firms hire ACCA-qualified professionals. These include audit firms, banks, corporates, and startups.
Popular employers:
- Deloitte UK
- PwC UK
- EY UK
- KPMG UK
- HSBC
- Barclays
- Grant Thornton
- BDO
- Amazon
- Accenture
All these firms offer structured training, promotions, and high salaries based on your ACCA level.
How to Increase Your ACCA Salary in the UK?
If you’re an ACCA student, affiliate, or member working in the UK or planning to move there, increasing your salary is a smart long-term goal. The UK market offers plenty of high-paying opportunities, especially for finance professionals who constantly upskill and stay relevant. Your ACCA qualification gives you a strong foundation, but your growth depends on how you build on it through practical steps. Let’s look at some proven ways to boost your ACCA salary in the UK.
Gain Relevant Experience Early
Start gaining experience while you’re still pursuing ACCA exams. Entry-level roles or internships in audit firms, accounting departments, or finance teams give you a head start. UK employers value hands-on experience, even at the trainee level. The earlier you start, the faster you grow into high-paying roles.
Complete the PER and Become a Member
Completing the Practical Experience Requirement (PER) is key to becoming an ACCA member. This not only improves your resume but also makes you eligible for higher-level positions. Full members earn significantly more than affiliates or students. Becoming a member proves you’re job-ready and globally competent.
Choose the Right Industry and Role
Not all sectors pay the same. Working in banking, fintech, or oil & gas can give better returns than public sector jobs. Roles like financial analyst, FP&A manager, and finance controller are also more rewarding than general accounting. Pick a path that aligns with both interest and salary goals.
Work in High-Paying Locations
In the UK, London offers the highest ACCA salaries due to its large financial sector. While the cost of living is high, salaries can go 20–30% above the national average. Cities like Manchester and Birmingham also offer strong packages. A smart relocation can help you earn significantly more.
Earn Additional Certifications
Combine ACCA with other certifications like DipIFR, CFA Level 1, or Data Analytics. These increase your scope in investment, reporting, or strategic finance. Employers in the UK pay higher salaries to candidates with blended knowledge. Upskilling shows you’re serious about career advancement.
ACCA Salary in UK FAQs
Q1. What is the average salary of ACCA in the UK for freshers?
Freshers earn around £28,000 to £35,000 per year in the UK.
Q2. Can ACCA get high-paying jobs in the UK?
Yes. With experience, salaries can go up to £70,000 to £100,000+.
Q3. What is the ACCA salary after qualification in the UK?
Fully qualified members earn £40,000 to £60,000 in mid-level jobs.
Q4. Can international students work in the UK after ACCA?
Yes. With a post-study work visa, you can apply for full-time jobs.
Q5. Which UK cities pay the highest to ACCA professionals?
London, Manchester, and Birmingham offer the highest ACCA salaries.
