10 Best Countries to Study Finance
Are you aspiring to become a financial wizard and wondering which global destinations could transform this ambition into reality? Embarking on a journey in finance education is not just about selecting a course; it is about choosing a country that nurtures your dreams and aligns with your career goals. In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the best countries to study finance abroad, highlighting top universities, course details, and much more.
Whether you are considering an undergraduate degree or advancing with a master’s degree, understanding the cost of studying finance abroad and international student scholarships for studying finance abroad is crucial. We have meticulously researched and listed not only the best universities to study finance abroad but also provided insights into course durations, fees, and the vibrant academic cultures of these countries for finance.
So, let us journey through the myriad of opportunities that await you in the best countries to study finance. Read on to discover which country is the perfect fit for your finance degree.
Top 10 Countries to Study Finance
Dive into our exploration of world-class education hubs, where prestigious institutions offer cutting-edge finance courses abroad. The top destinations that stand out as the best countries to study finance abroad are listed below:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- Singapore
- Germany
- Switzerland
- Netherlands
- Hong Kong, China
- France
Whether you are seeking comprehensive study finance programmes, affordable cost of studying finance abroad, or lucrative scholarships to avail for studying finance abroad, these countries offer it all. Each of them offers unique strengths, from innovative finance courses abroad to esteemed institutions. Let us explore these countries one-by-one for reasons to study finance courses, along with top universities and scholarships for international students.
Study Finance in United States
The United States stands as a beacon of excellence, offering some of the best universities to study finance abroad. With a blend of practical and theoretical learning, students gain unparalleled exposure to global financial markets and institutions.
Top US Universities for Finance
The prestigious US institutions not only offer world-class finance courses abroad but also provide extensive financial support through scholarships, making the cost of studying finance abroad more manageable. The top US universities according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance are:
- Harvard University, Cambridge
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge
- Stanford University, Stanford
- University of Chicago, Chicago
- University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
Best Finance Courses in US
- BSc in Finance: 4 years | MBA in Finance: 2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Investment Banking and Financial Planning
Popular US Scholarships
- Fulbright Scholarships
- Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in United Kingdom
As a global financial powerhouse, London’s influence on the world stage makes the UK one of the best countries for finance education. Students benefit from strong ties to leading financial institutions and gain an in-depth understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of the field.
Top UK Universities for Finance
UK universities are not only renowned for their academic rigour but also offer a wide range of financial support options, including scholarships and bursaries, to help manage the overall cost of an international education. Here's the list of top UK universities as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance:
- University of Oxford, Oxford
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge
- The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London
- London Business School, London
- Imperial College London, London
Best Finance Courses in UK
- BSc in Finance: 3-4 years | MSc in Finance: 1 year
- Strengths & Specialisation: Global Finance and Financial Management
Popular UK Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in Australia
With its strong economy and close ties to the Asia-Pacific markets, Australia provides both academic excellence and real-world exposure. Its welcoming multicultural environment and generous post-study work opportunities make it an attractive destination.
Top Australian Universities for Finance
Degrees from top Australian institutions are globally recognised, offering practical learning through real-world projects and internships. Many universities also offer favourable post-study work visa options, enabling you to gain valuable work experience after graduation. Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance, here's is a list of the top Australian universities:
- The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)
- The University of Sydney, Sydney
- Monash University, Melbourne
- Australian National University (ANU), Canberra
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane City
Best Finance Courses in Australia
- BCom in Finance: 3 years | MCom in Finance: 2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Corporate Finance and Fintech
Popular Australian Scholarships
- Australia Awards Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in Canada
Increasingly recognised as one of the best countries to study finance abroad, Canada is home to universities that offer a high-quality education with a strong emphasis on practical skills and innovation, all within a diverse and inclusive society.
Top Canadian Universities for Finance
Canadian degrees provide a strong foundation for both your personal and professional growth. In addition to a top-tier curriculum, the country offers work-study opportunities and a straightforward pathway to post-graduation work permits, making it a great place to build your career. The top Canadian universities as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance are listed below:
- University of Toronto, Toronto
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver
- McGill University, Montreal
- Queen's University at Kingston, Kingston
- University of Alberta, Edmonton
Best Finance Courses in Canada
- BBA in Finance: 4 years | MBA in Finance: 1-2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Corporate Finance, Investment Management, Ethical Finance, Sustainable Investments
Popular Canadian Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- University-Specific Awards
Study Finance in Germany
Renowned for its engineering and manufacturing, Germany is also a leader in finance education. The country's strong economy and central location in Europe provide students with invaluable industry connections. Its public universities often offer little to no tuition fees, making it one of the most affordable options for a world-class degree.
Top German Universities for Finance
German finance degrees are highly respected and focus on practical training and research. The country produces well-prepared graduates for a career in Europe's largest economy, particularly in key financial centres like Frankfurt. The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance lists the following German universities as the topmost for the field:
- Universität Mannheim, Mannheim
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich
- Technical University of Munich, Munich
- WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management, Vallendar
Best Finance Courses in Germany
- BBA in Finance: 3-4 years | MSc in Financial Management: 1-1.5 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Strong Quantitative and Analytical Focus
Popular Germany Scholarships
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) Scholarships
- Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
Study Finance in Singapore
Singapore is one of the best countries to study finance abroad, mixing Eastern hustle with Western business smarts. This blend is why Singapore's universities are top spots for students wanting to study finance. With its strategic location and a thriving financial sector, the country provides a unique vantage point to understand both Asian and Western markets.
Top Singaporean Universities for Finance
As the major global business hub, with many multinational companies having their Asian headquarters there, Singapore offers ample internship and employment prospects upon graduation, giving you a competitive edge in the global job market. The top Singaporean universities listed in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance are:
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore)
- Singapore Management University
Best Finance Courses in Singapore
- BSc in Finance: 3 years | MSc in Finance: 2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Strong industry connections and practical training
Popular Singaporean Scholarships
- Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA)
- ADB-Japan Scholarship Program
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in Switzerland
Switzerland is a global financial powerhouse, famous for its banking, wealth management, and private banking sectors. A finance degree from a Swiss university provides a deep understanding of these fields, supported by a stable economy and a high standard of living.
Top Swiss Universities for Finance
Studying in a secure and multicultural environment exposes students to programmes that blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Graduates from Swiss universities are highly sought after by top financial institutions worldwide. Listed below are the top Swiss universities based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance.
- ETH Zurich, Zürich
- University of Zurich, Zürich
- University of St.Gallen (HSG), St.Gallen
- EPFL – École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne
- University of Lausanne, Lausanne
Best Finance Courses in Switzerland
- BSc in Banking and Finance: 3 years | MSc in Finance: 1-2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Banking and Wealth Management
Popular Swiss Scholarships
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in Netherlands
The birthplace of the stock market, the Netherlands has a rich history in finance and is a fantastic place to study. Many of its universities offer programmes in English, making it easy for international students to integrate. The country’s dynamic financial scene and high level of English proficiency make it a great choice.
Top Dutch Universities for Finance
The Netherlands offers a diverse range of finance specialisations, from corporate finance to risk management. Its degrees are recognised for a strong focus on practical learning, with many programmes including real-world projects and internships. The top Dutch Universities as per QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance
- Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam
- University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam
- Tilburg University, Tilburg
- Maastricht University, Maastricht
- University of Groningen, Groningen
Best Finance Courses in Netherlands
- BSc in Finance: 3 years | MSc in Financial Management: 1 year
- Strengths & Specialisation: International Finance and Risk Management
Popular Dutch Scholarships
- NL Scholarship
- Orange Tulip Scholarship
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong is a leading international financial center and a major gateway to mainland China. Studying here gives you a front-row seat to the dynamic Asian financial markets. The city’s universities offer high-quality, English-taught programmes with a strong focus on quantitative and analytical skills.
Top Universities in Hong Kong for Finance
With its business-friendly environment and dense concentration of multinational financial institutions, Hong Kong offers graduates immense career opportunities in banking, wealth management, and fintech across the Asia-Pacific region. Here's a list of top universities in Hong Kong according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance:
- The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
- City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), Hong Kong
Best Finance Courses in Hong Kong
- BBA in Finance: 4 years | MSc in Finance: 1 year
- Strengths & Specialisation: Asian Financial Markets and International Finance
Popular Hong Kong Scholarships
- Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- HKSAR Government Scholarship Fund
- University-Specific Scholarships
Study Finance in France
France is a popular study destination for its world-class business schools and reputation for academic excellence. With a strong focus on financial engineering and quantitative finance, many French universities and Grandes Écoles offer cutting-edge, English-taught programmes.
Top French Universities for Finance
A degree from a top French business school is highly valued globally, opening doors to careers not only in finance but also in consulting and management. France also offers numerous scholarships to support international students. Listed by the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Accounting & Finance are the following French universities:
- HEC Paris Business School, Paris
- INSEAD, Fontainebleau
- Université PSL, Paris
- ESSEC Business School, Cergy
- Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, Paris
Best Finance Courses in France
- BSc in Finance: 3 years | MSc in Financial Engineering: 2 years
- Strengths & Specialisation: Financial Engineering and Quantitative Finance
Popular French Scholarships
- Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
- Charpak Scholarships
- University-Specific Scholarships
Cost of Studying Finance Courses Abroad
The cost of studying Finance courses abroad is a combination of tuition fees and living expenses required by international students. Let us explore these for different countries:
| Country | Annual Undergraduate Tuition Fees | Annual Postgraduate Tuition Fees | Living Costs for Visa Filing |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Public universities: US $25,000 - $50,000 Private universities are more expensive | Public universities: US $20,000 - $40,000 Private universities can be higher | US $10,000 to $25,000 for one year, varies depending on the city and lifestyle |
| UK | £12,000 - £38,000 | £10,000 - £30,000 | London: £1,334 per month for 9 months Outside London: £1,023 per month for 9 months |
| Australia | AU $20,000 - $45,000+ | AU $22,000 - $50,000 | AU $29,710 for one year |
| Canada | CA $35,000 - $40,000 | CA $20,000 - $25,000 | CA $22,895 per year (GIC Amount) |
| Singapore | SG $17,000 - $30,000 | SG $20,000 - $45,000 | SG $1,200 - $2,000 per month, totaling up to SG $14,400 - $24,000 annually |
| Germany | Public universities: €0 - €1,500 per semester Private universities: €5,000 - €20,000 annually | Public universities: €0 - €1,500 per semester Private universities: €10,000 - €30,000 annually | €11,904 for one year (Blocked Account) |
| Switzerland | Public universities: CHF 1,500 - CHF 4,500 Private universities are more expensive | Public universities: CHF 2,500 - CHF 6,500 Private universities can be higher | At least CHF 21,000 per year |
| Netherlands | €8,000 - €15,000+ | €10,000 - €20,000+ | €13,750 per year |
| Hong Kong, China | HK $140,000 - $180,000 | HK $120,000 - $350,000 | HK $126,000 - $264,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and location |
| France | Public universities: €2,895 Private universities: €6,000 - €18,000+ | Public universities: €3,941 Private universities: €5,000 - €30,000+ | €615 per month, totaling up to €7,380 annually |
Please note that all figures are approximate and subject to change. It is recommended that you check the latest figures for tuition fees and living costs on the official university websites. The availability of numerous scholarships helps significantly with the financial burden of a global education.
To sum up, the journey to study finance in the best countries is both exciting and transformative. From the US to Singapore, each destination offers unique experiences and world-class finance courses to international students. The choice of country and university you choose to study finance abroad will shape your career and open doors to global opportunities in the finance sector.
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