Summary
- Amid the global uncertainty and economic slowdown in recent years and increasing visa restrictions in top study abroad destinations like the USA, many students are investing in affordable and student-friendly European countries.
- MBA graduates in the country earn some of the highest salaries in the world, with an average yearly salary package of around €95,000.
- While international applications in the UK’s B-schools decreased by 12%, France reported an increase of 74% in its MBA programs in 2024.
Business schools in France are increasingly attracting international students, especially from Asian countries, including India. France has the most triple-accredited schools in Europe after the UK. However, while international applications in the UK’s B-schools decreased by 12%, France reported an increase of 74% in its MBA programs in 2024.
Amid the global uncertainty and economic slowdown in recent years and increasing visa restrictions in top study abroad destinations like the USA, many students are investing in affordable and student-friendly European countries.
In fact, the number of Indian students in French business schools grew by 219% between 2016 and 2021. So, why are more and more students choosing France for an MBA? Read along to find out all about pursuing an MBA in the country.
Note: If you’re eyeing France for your MBA in 2025, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong. But the real challenge isn’t choosing France—it’s choosing the right program in France that aligns with your budget, goals, and post-MBA plans.
That’s exactly where GradRight helps.
Start with GradRight’s university search platform, built to help Indian students like you find MBA programs that offer strong ROI, real employer connections, and post-study work opportunities. It factors in tuition, living costs, career outcomes, and scholarship availability—so you don’t just choose what’s famous, but what’s right for you.
And then there’s the cost. Even in France, MBA tuition can range from ₹20–35 lakhs. That’s where GradRight’s loan-search platform comes in. Instead of chasing banks, let 15+ trusted lenders compete to offer you the best education loan—with no collateral required in many cases, and expert help at every step.
Together, these tools make your MBA in France not just achievable, but financially smart.
Why pursue an MBA in France in 2025?
Many MBA graduates abroad see a salary increase of 50–80% compared to their pre-MBA earnings. The high return on investment has made a global MBA increasingly popular among many Indian professionals. Here are some reasons why you should consider France.
Top B-School World Rankings
France is home to globally renowned business schools such as HEC Paris, INSEAD, ESSEC, and Emlyon. Several of these institutions are ranked in global MBA rankings. It also boasts 18 “triple crown” schools among 100-plus French institutions that hold top global accreditations: AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. INSEAD, which ranked fourth globally this year, is the country’s leading business school.
High Earning Potential
In France, recent MBA graduates experience a salary boost of 20–30% immediately after graduation, and this increase can reach 50% within five years of earning the degree. MBA graduates in the country earn some of the highest salaries in the world, with an average yearly salary package of around €95,000. Most land roles in sectors like consulting, finance, technology, and luxury management.
Diverse Crowd and Opportunities
France hosts major international companies like IBM, Airbus, L’Oréal, and Orange, which not only provide excellent job prospects but networking opportunities. HEC Paris’s MBA Class of 2024 included 95% international students from 48 nationalities, of those, 61% found jobs abroad. The universities also collaborate with 220 plus partners for international internships and study tours.
Affordable Education and Financial Support
MBA tuition fees in France can be significantly more than other master’s courses. However, the fees at some French public universities and cost of living in the country are more affordable than in other countries like the USA. Many top universities also offer one-year programs which are more cost-effective and offer a quicker return on investment. Moreover, several scholarships and flexible education loans are also available for international students looking to pursue an MBA in France.
Overall, France is a top choice for international business students looking for high ROI and global exposure, in cities with better quality of living.
MBA in France: eligibility criteria and admission requirements
While the eligibility criteria and admission requirements for each program and university are different, there are some common standards:
- A bachelor’s degree (minimum 50–65% marks) in a relevant field is required for most MBA programs.
Schools such as the HEC do not have an absolute requirement for a bachelor’s degree. It also accepts a certificate equivalent to upper secondary education with at least 5 years of professional work experience (3 years in a managerial position).
- Most top business schools mandate 2–5 years of professional experience, with 3 years being a common minimum. Moreover, some universities, such as ESSEC, consider international work experience (abroad or in an international environment) as one of the admission criteria. Certain specialized or executive MBAs may also require additional experience.
- Proof of English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent tests is also a prerequisite. Minimum scores for each test usually include: 6.5 (IELTS), 85 (TOEFL IBT), 850 (TOEIC), 72 (PTE), 120 (Duolingo) and Cambridge Exam B2. However, some business schools, including IÉSEG, offer an exemption for candidates who have previously completed English-taught courses.
- GMAT or GRE scores are often compulsory, though some schools offer waivers or accept alternative assessments. GMAT scores above 60% and GRE at or above the 65th percentile are generally recommended.
Business schools such as ESSEC and IESEG consider GMAT/GRE score as an optional requirement for admission.
- Supporting documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays or Statement of Purpose, and a resume/CV are other standard requirements. Some universities also set a minimum age of 25 years for MBA programs.
Most schools in France offer two intakes, a winter intake in January and a popular fall intake in August or September.
Top MBA colleges in France for international students
Here are some of the top 10 MBA colleges in France with tuition fees for the duration of the course.
| Business School | QS Global MBA Rank 2025 | Typical Fees (EUR) |
| HEC Paris | 6 | 99,000 – 102,000 |
| INSEAD | 11 | 103,000 – 107,000 |
| ESSEC Business School | 28 | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| ESCP Business School | 27 | 57,000 – 60,000 |
| ESSEC Business School | 28 | 50,000 – 53,000 |
| EDHEC Business School | 47 | 52,500 – 55,000 |
| Emlyon Business School | 62 | 38,500 – 42,000 |
| Audencia Business School | Top 150 | 31,500 – 35,000 |
| IESEG School of Managment | Top 150 | 35,000 – 38,000 |
The duration of most MBA programs in France ranges from 10 to 24 months. Students can also choose a different specialisation in France, such as Luxury brand management, healthcare, international business, and tech.
MBA in France without GMAT and IELTS: What you should know
An MBA admission is possible without a GMAT score in France. Several top schools such as Emlyon, Audencia, Paris School of Business, and IESEG do not require GMAT if you have strong work experience and academic credentials. Some universities also accept other tests, including GRE, Tage Mage, or offer waivers.
Fresh graduates can also consider Master’s in Management (MiM) programs, if you have lack work experience. These courses are more accessible and do not always require GMAT or work experience. Moreover, a master’s degree can help you get a GMAT waiver. For example, EMLyon and ESSEC waive the GMAT if you have 5+ years of work experience or a master’s degree.
Similarly, an MBA in France is possible without an IELTS test for students whose native language is not English. Some universities accept alternative English proficiency proofs, such as internal language tests and previous education in English. This means that Indian students who have completed their bachelor’s in English may be able to submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate and an English proficiency letter from their university.
Some programs also allow you to take an MiM and an MBA together.
MBA scholarships available in France
Indian students pursuing an MBA in France have access to several scholarships. These funding opportunities are offered by the French government, Indian foundations, and private organizations. Universities also sometimes provide scholarships for academic excellence or diversity.
These scholarships can help you cover full or part of your expenses in France, including tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Below are three popular scholarships for Indian students looking to pursue an MBA.
- The French government offers a highly competitive Eiffel Excellence Scholarship. It provides €1,800 for master’s students, including MBA, with additional benefits such as international travel, health insurance, and cultural activities.
- The European Union’s Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s program offers €1,400/month and covers tuition for joint programs in France.
- The French Embassy in India also offers the Charpak Scholarship. It includes a monthly stipend and other benefits on merit.
Below are some scholarships by universities in France:.
| Scholarship Name | Type | Award Amount |
| HEC Paris MBA Scholarships | Merit/need/diversity | €5,000–€50,000 |
| INSEAD Scholarships | Merit/need/specific criteria | Up to 50% tuition |
| Sciences Po Emile Boutmy | Academic merit | Partial tuition waiver |
| Rainbow Bridge MBA Scholarship | Women from Asia/Africa, leadership | Up to €20,000 |
Many schools also offer early-bird discounts for tuition fee, in addition to scholarships.
MBA in France: Fees, cost of living, and other expenses
Tuition fees at the top business schools in France can be quite high. Top-tier schools like INSEAD and HEC Paris charge upwards of INR 93 lakh to 1 crore for the full program. However, some universities such as Audencia and IESEG offer modest fees of around INR 29-37 lakh for MBA courses.
Therefore, two main costs for pursuing an MBA in France are:
- Tuition Fees for International Students: €31,000 to €100,000 for the full program, depending on the school.
- Cost of Living: €9,600 to €24,000 per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
The table below shows a range of living expenses in France. The price range varies by city to city. For instance, the cost of living is highest in Paris.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost in EUR per Year (INR) |
| Accommodation | 4,800 – 14,400 (₹4.3 lakhs – ₹12.6 lakhs) |
| Utilities | 1,200 – 1,800 (₹1.1 lakhs – ₹1.6 lakhs) |
| Food & Groceries | 2,400 – 4,800 (₹2.1 lakhs – ₹4.3 lakhs) |
| Transportation | 600 – 1,200 (₹53,000 – ₹1.1 lakh) |
| Health Insurance | 360 – 720 (₹32,000 – ₹64,000) |
| Study Materials | 600 – 1,200 (₹53,000 – ₹1.1 lakh) |
| Visa Fees | 99 (₹9,000) |
MBA in France application process and deadlines 2025
After you have selected the universities you want to apply to, you can submit your application online by the deadline. The application requirements for an MBA in France include documents such as:
- Academic transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Recommendation letters
- Essays/SOP
- Test scores
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport copy and photographs
Most schools in France have multiple rounds of admissions. For example, HEC Paris has deadlines from March through July for the September intake.
| Business School | MBA in France Application Deadlines 2025 |
| HEC Paris | June 22, 2025 (Round 6)
July 22, 2025 (Round 7) August 17, 2025 (Round 8) September 21, 2025 (Round 9) |
| INSEAD | June 17, 2025 (Round 3)
August 5, 2025 (Round 4) |
| ESSEC Business School | June 16, 2025 (Final Round) |
| ESCP Business School | June 2025 (Final Rounds) |
If you are shortlisted by a university, you will most likely be invited for an interview. After the admission process is over, you can accept the offer, pay any required deposit, and begin your student visa application process.
The long-stay student visa in France (Visa de Long Séjour Études) carries a fee of €99 for Indian applicants.
Tips for Indian students aspiring to study an MBA in France
- Research and Shortlist the Right Program: For a successful application, you have to make sure you apply to the right programs. You can choose the best-fit MBA and specialization (e.g., Finance, Marketing, Strategy, HR) with help from online tools like GradRight’s university search platform.
- Start Early and Apply Carefully: While this may be one of the most basic tips, it is one of the most decsive. Waiting for the application deadlines can limit your chances. If you apply early, your chances for acceptance, scholarships and successful visa processing also increase.
- Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview and must ask yourself basic questions to prepare. Why you are choosing the particular university in France for your MBA? Be clear on your goals and how the program aligns with them.
- Explore Scholarships and Financial Aid: MBA is not a small investment. To reduce financial stress in future and burden your family with heavy loans, look for scholarships and consider education loans with flexible repayment options if needed.
- Plan for Living and Settling in France: If you plan to stay and work in France after graduation, learning French early is a big advantage. Some jobs may not require it, but it will open more doors and increase your chances of landing a great job in the country.
- Leverage Post-Study Work Opportunities: International students can look for a job after completing their studies for up to two years. You can gain valuable work experience to gain international work experience and transition to a full work permit when employed.
Overall, an MBA in France is one of the best opportunities for international students to build global networks and find strong career prospects in 2025.
FAQs
1. What are the eligibility criteria for pursuing an MBA in France?
The basic criteria for an MBA include a bachelor’s degree, 2–5 years of work experience, English proficiency and GMAT/GRE.
2. Which are the top MBA colleges in France?
Some of highest ranked MBA colleges in France are INSEAD, HEC Paris, ESSEC, EDHEC, Emlyon, and Grenoble Ecole de Management.
3. Can I study an MBA in France without GMAT or IELTS?
Yes, many French B-schools waive GMAT and IELTS for MBA candidates. Indian students can submit proof of Engligh language proficiency with proof of a previous degree course in English.
4. What is the cost of studying an MBA in France for Indian students?
MBA program fees in france for indian studentss from ₹29 lakh to ₹1 crore. Living expenses vary by city and can cost any where between ₹8–20 lakh per year for housing, food, transport, and insurance.
5. What scholarships are available for MBA students in France?
Scholarships include the Eiffel Excellence, Charpak, Erasmus Mundus, and university-specific ones from HEC, INSEAD, and Emlyon, covering tuition, living costs, or both.
