Best Courses in Finance for International Students

Finance professionals are in high demand these days. This is largely due to the rapid adoption of digital banking, mobile payments, and online investment platforms. These technological advancements are driving huge growth in the finance industry. As a result, there is a global need for bankers, portfolio managers, risk analysts, and fintech specialists who can drive innovation based on emerging technology.

This is the best time to do a master’s degree in finance. If you cannot commit the time to a post-graduate degree since you work full time, it is possible to learn equally well from professional certifications and online courses. 

In this article, we look at the best finance courses in 2025 including postgraduate degrees, online courses, and certifications from abroad.

Why pursue finance courses?

Studying the best finance courses in 2025 is highly lucrative. The industry has emerged from the shadows of COVID-19 and is poised to grow exponentially. 

This is due to the rapid adoption of mobile payment systems, like UPI and Venmo, and the spread of online trading platforms such as Robinhood and Zerodha. As a result, the entire financial system is on the verge of a transformative change. The coming dominance of GenAI means commercial banks, investment banks, hedge funds, and mutual funds require a vast number of people who are adept with the latest technological trends.

The median salary of a finance manager is next to that of medical professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, USA, the average pay in 2023 was $156,000. In the decade between 2023 and 2033, the demand is slated to grow much faster than usual at 17%. All of these factors, especially high demand and gainful compensation, make the best finance courses and careers highly desirable.

With that in mind, let’s explore some of the top options available for those looking to pursue a master’s in finance.

5 top master’s programs in finance for international students 2025

While you can secure a good job in the finance and banking industry with a bachelor’s degree, a master’s program is a worthwhile investment. A master’s in finance provides in-depth knowledge of financial analysis, risk management, and modeling,

Companies across industries need this type of financial expertise for successful operations. Naturally, this leads to strong job prospects for post-graduates in finance. 

With that in mind, let’s explore some of the top options available for those looking to pursue a master’s in finance:

University of Oxford (Saïd Business School) – MSc in Financial Economics

The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School offers the world-renowned Master of Science in Financial Economics degree. The program is widely considered the best finance course in the world. This one-year program is a combination of academic knowledge and exposure to real-world financial applications.

Curriculum:

The program covers key aspects such as:

• Corporate Finance
• Asset Pricing
• Financial Econometrics
• Investment Management
• Financial Crises and Risk Management

Duration: 10 months

Fees: £59,360

Scholarships: 

There are many scholarships for the MFE course. The two most well-known are:

• Alumni Annual Fund Scholarships
• Rewley Scholarship

Admissions Deadlines:

• Stage 1: October 25, 2024
• Stage 2: January 3, 2025
• Stage 3: March 5, 2025

HEC Paris – Master in International Finance (MIF)

HEC Paris offers the Master in International Finance (MIF) program. It is the second-best finance course in the world according to multiple global rankings. The institution is renowned for preparing students for successful careers in finance. The program will equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for success in the finance industry. 

Curriculum:

The program teaches various topics including:

• Asset Management
• Corporate Finance
• Derivatives
• Financial Statement Analysis

Website: hec.edu 

Duration: 10 months – 16 months

Fees: €45,900

Scholarships: 

HEC offers all admitted students the following scholarships: 

• HEC Foundation Excellence Scholarships
• Eiffel Scholarship

Admissions Deadlines:

• Round 1: October 10, 2024
• Round 2: January 6, 2025
• Round 3: February 27, 2025
• Round 4: April 14, 2025

MIT Sloan School of Management – Master of Finance (MFin)

The Master of Finance (MFin) program at MIT’s Sloan School of Management provides students with a full understanding of finance. The school places particular stress on the application of quantitative techniques. 

Curriculum:

The program explores diverse topics:

• Financial modeling
• Portfolio and pricing theory
• Statistics and data analytics
• Computational methods
• Financial technology
• Quantitative methods

Website: mitsloan.mit.edu

Duration: 12 or 18 months

Fees:

• 12-month: $91,250
• 18-month: $124,875

Scholarships: 

While the university website does not mention any particular scholarship, MIT Sloan offers various fellowships and financial aid options.

Admissions Deadline: January 3, 2025

London Business School – Masters in Finance (MiF)

London Business School (LBS) offers a prestigious Masters in Finance (MiF) program. It is for experienced finance professionals who want to deepen their grasp of the domain.  

Curriculum: 

The program spans numerous disciplines:

• Data Analytics for Finance
• Corporate Finance and Valuation
• Advanced Corporate Finance
• Behavioural Finance
• Derivatives
• Equity Investment Management

Duration: 10–16 months

Fees: £65,000

Scholarships: 

London Business School provides multiple scholarships for its MiF students. These are based on merit and you can apply during the admissions process.

Admissions Deadlines:

• Round 3: January 7, 2025
• Round 4: March 4, 2025
• Round 5: April 22, 2025

UC Berkeley Haas School of Business – Master of Financial Engineering (MFE)

The Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program at UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business teaches students various topics for careers in finance, and data science. The program has an up-to-date curriculum and stresses practical experience. 

Curriculum: 

This program teaches multiple topics: 

• Investments and Derivatives
• Financial Data Science
• Financial Risk Measurement and Management
• Fixed Income Markets
• Applied Finance Project

Duration: 12 months

Fees: $80,486

Scholarships: 

UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business provides various scholarships and financial aid options. You must mention during your admission application that you require financial aid. 

Admissions Deadline: January 3, 2025

Note: Pursuing a master’s in finance is a significant investment, and securing the right funding can make all the difference. That’s where FundRight (by GradRight) comes in. It’s a free service designed to help students like you secure the best education loans. Here’s how it works:

• Zero paperwork: Everything is app-based and AI-powered, so no bank visits are needed.
• Safe and easy: Share documents only after seeing lender offers.
• No-cosigner loans: Options for loans without cosigners or co-applicants.
• Low interest rates: From private banks, public banks, and NBFCs.
• Personal dashboard: Live loan offers and negotiation assistance.

With FundRight, you can focus on your studies while they handle the financial details. Now, let’s explore how you can further enhance your finance career with certifications.

Also Read: Masters (MS) in Finance in the USA: Top Universities, Rankings, Fees, Eligibility & More

5 Best Certification Courses in Finance for Career Advancement

Besides degree programs, you can also opt for certification courses. Finance certification courses are professional programs usually undertaken by working professionals. They improve the student’s knowledge and expertise in finance. 

They have multiple advantages. 

• You do not need a student visa or travel abroad for a US or UK certification. 
• These courses are widely accepted across North America, Europe and Australia. 
• They cost far less (about 2-5%) of a degree course. 
• You can work and study. There is no need to pause your career while you improve your skill set.  

Here are the best certification courses in finance.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

The CMA course is offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). It is designed for working professionals in finance and management accounting. 

CMA course curriculum stresses upon: 

• Financial Planning
• Financial Analysis
• Cost Management
• Strategic Financial Decision-Making
• Internal Controls

Exam Format 

The program is based on a two-part exam. Each part tests your knowledge in six different financial topics. 

Duration

Those who work hard can complete the course in 12 months. For many working professionals, it takes up to 2 years to complete. 

Estimated Costs

CMA fees also include fees for membership in IMA, exam fees, and study materials. The total cost is between $1,800–$2,500. 

Recognition 

Though the course has been developed by an organization based in the USA, CMA has global recognition. It’s well respected in over 150 countries. 

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA title is widely regarded as the best certification in investment management. It is administered by the CFA Institute. It signifies a high level of competency in investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial markets. 

CFA course consists of: 

• Quantitative Methods
• Economics
• Financial Reporting
• Corporate Finance
• Portfolio Management
• Investments Analysis

Exam Format 

Three levels of study and exams with each section spanning about 300 hours of study. 

Duration

It takes between 900 – 1000 hours of study and needs four years. 

Estimated Costs 

The exam registration fee varies by level and registration deadline. For example, in 2025, the early registration fee for Level 1 was $990, and the standard registration fee was $1,290. The entire course costs between $3,000 and $4,500 on average. 

Recognition 

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter is recognized in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. it typically leads to jobs in investment banking, asset management, research analysis, and portfolio management. 

Financial Risk Manager (FRM)

The Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification is a certification for professionals who specialize in risk management. The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) offers the certification. 

FRM course focuses on: 

• Quantitative Analysis
• Financial Markets and Products
• Enterprise Risk Management
• Operational Risk
• Credit Risk
• Market Risk
• Liquidity Risk

Exam Format 

The FRM exam is divided into two parts, with each part comprising multiple-choice questions.

Duration

Each part requires 200–240 hours of study. Most students complete the certification within 1–2 years.

Estimated Costs 

The program requires an enrollment fee of $400. Exam fees are $800 and retake fees are $600-$800 (per part). The total cost is between $2,500 and $3,000. 

Recognition 

The FRM certification is recognized globally for professionals specializing in financial risk management

Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a professional body that offers accounting qualifications for business careers. 

The curriculum teaches: 

• Business Economics
• Management Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Ethics, Corporate Governance, and Business Law
• Cost Accounting
• Budgeting
• Financial Performance
• Financial Accounting Principles
• Taxation

Exam Format 

CIMA qualifications are structured in three stages. These are operational, management, and strategic levels. In all, there are 12-15 papers. 

Duration

Because of the larger number of subjects and experience requirements, the qualification can take 3–4 years to complete.

Estimated Costs 

New candidates pay a one-time registration fee to join CIMA. This fee includes the first year’s subscription fee. In 2025, the application fee is £199. The exams cost between £130–£200 depending on the level. In all, it costs about £3,000–£4,000 inclusive of study material costs. 

Recognition 

CIMA is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, a UK-based organization. It is accepted in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India and Africa. 

Certified International Investment Analyst (CIIA)

A Certified International Investment Analyst (CIIA) is a well-reputed qualification for those working in the finance and investment industry. It is pursued by those who want to be financial analysts, portfolio managers, and investment advisors. CIIA certification is awarded by the Association of Certified International Investment Analysts based in Bülach, Switzerland. 

The course focuses on: 

• Financial Accounting 
• Corporate Finance
• Equity Valuation and Analysis
• Fixed Income Valuation and Analysis
• Derivative Valuation and Analysis
• Portfolio Management
• Economic Analysis and Forecasting
• Risk Management and Compliance
• Behavioral Finance 

Exam Format 

The CIIA exam is divided into a Foundation Level and a Final Level. The questions vary according to the level and consist of multiple choice, calculation, and case studies. 

Duration

The course requires around 900 hours of study. Candidates usually take 2-3 years to complete the certification.

Estimated Costs 

Total expenses range from US $1,000 to US $2,000. Study materials have to be purchased separately. 

Recognition 

CIIA certification is accepted globally. It competes with the CFA certification. Those who pass can find jobs in banking, finance, and portfolio management.  

Please note that the duration is keeping in mind the schedule of a student who works full time. If someone quits their job and focuses on the certification alone, most can be completed within a year. 

Also Read: MBA in Finance in USA: Top Universities, Syllabus, Salary, Career Path

5 top online finance courses for flexible learning 2025

Whether you are looking to upskill or just getting your bearings in finance, numerous online courses fit your needs. 

Here are the best finance courses online:

Master of Business Administration (iMBA) by University of Illinois Gies College of Business and Coursera

Priced at $25,000

The iMBA program with specialization in finance grooms you for a career as a finance manager. The program covers basic and advanced knowledge through 18 courses and 72 credits. It is pay-as-you-go and students are eligible for scholarships. 

Graduates of the Coursera iMBA program become a part of the 800,000-strong alumni in the University of Illinois network.

Professional Certificate in Corporate Finance by Columbia University and edX

Priced at $608

The certificate consists of three courses— Introduction to Corporate Finance, Free Cash Flow Analysis, and Risk & Return. It teaches the principles of financial decision-making and the real-world examples where such knowledge is used. 

Certificate in Finance by London Business School 

Priced at £28,000

This course is designed for finance professionals who have 5-10 years of experience. The program consists of four courses that have to be completed in 24 months. There are three finance-focused programs and one elective from leadership and strategic management. The classes are delivered by live lectures. 

The Complete Investment Banking Course 2025 from Udemy 

Priced at $150

The course has a 4.6-star rating and over 177,000 students enrolled. This bestseller course covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Investment banking services and mechanics
• Financial modeling and valuation (DCF, LBO, multiples)
• Initial Public Offerings (IPOs)
• Bond offerings and pricing
• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)

The Complete Financial Analyst Course 2025 from Udemy 

Priced at $200

This course too has a highly favorable rating of 4.6 and over 450,000 enrollments. It covers various aspects of finance including: 

• Accounting and bookkeeping principles
• Financial statement analysis (P&L, balance sheet, ratios)
• Financial math (NPV, loan scheduling, interest rates)
• Industry analysis and business evaluation
• Company valuation and performance analysis

There are many more but we have restricted ourselves to reviewing the best finance courses. 

Now, let’s compare MBA Finance courses and Masters in Finance courses to help you decide which might be the best fit for your career goals.

Also Read: Masters (MS) in Finance in the USA: Top Universities, Rankings, Fees, Eligibility & More

Comparing MBA Finance courses and Masters in Finance courses

It can be confusing as to which is better: an MBA (Fin) or a master’s in finance.

A Master of Business Administration or MBA is a broad business degree that prepares students for leadership roles. It can have many specializations such as Operations, Marketing, Systems, Finance, HR, and more. 

A Master of Finance (MF) is a specialized degree that prepares students for finance-focused roles. 

An MBA degree prepares the student for leadership roles and plays a part in strategic planning and management of a business. A master’s in finance on the other hand works as a financial analyst, investment adviser, financial adviser, or financial manager. 

Specialized finance courses: accounting, banking, and more

There is also a vast array of courses that tutor accounting, banking, and other aspects of the financial domain. Here is a curated list of specialized finance programs offered by leading universities worldwide:

Degree Name	University	Key Curriculum Areas	Duration	Specialization Focus
MSc Accounting & Finance	Alliance Manchester Business School (UK)	Financial Reporting, Auditing, Corporate Finance, Risk Management	1 year	Accounting and Financial Strategy
Master in Advances in Finance and Accounting	University of Grenoble Alpes (France)	Financial Markets, Corporate Finance, Banking, Insurance, Auditing	1 year	Risk Management, Financial Analysis
MSc Accounting and Financial Management	Royal Holloway University of London (UK)	International Accounting Standards, Strategic Finance, Corporate Governance	1 year	Global Financial Management
Master in Accounting, Finance & Business Consulting	University of Padova (Italy)	Financial Analysis, Business Consulting, Banking Operations	2 years	Corporate Finance, Banking
MA in Global Accounting and Finance	Ca’ Foscari University of Venice (Italy)	International Finance, Advanced Accounting Techniques	2 years	Global Economic Environment
MSc Accounting and Banking	Bangor University (UK)	Banking Operations, Financial Markets, Risk Assessment	1 year	Banking and Financial Services

These programs offer knowledge and experience to a wide range of career aspirations within finance and banking. 

Fee structure and scholarship options for finance courses in 2025

There are so many universities and programs for aspiring finance professionals. Each has its own advantages and focus. Some require you to travel halfway across the world and others can be done from the comfort of your study. 

To make it easier there is GradRight’s university-search platform which helps students find their best-matched graduate programs. 

With a database of 40,000 courses, it is easy to create your custom shortlist of universities and programs. So sign up and be on your way to the course of your choice at the university of your preference. 

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