ESSEC Business School, founded in 1907, is a prestigious French business school with campuses in Cergy, La Défense, Rabat, and Singapore. Originally established by Jesuits to rival HEC Paris, it remained independent until 1981 and is now part of the CY Alliance. ESSEC offers a variety of programs, including the Grande École Program, Global BBA, specialized master's, MBA, and doctoral degrees. It is one of France's top three business schools, alongside HEC Paris and ESCP. ESSEC is known for its high academic standards and global reach.
Motto: ESSEC Business School’s motto, Per scientiam ad libertatem (Through knowledge to freedom), reflects its commitment to empowering students through education, fostering a pioneering spirit, and encouraging them to enlighten, lead, and change the world.
Type: ESSEC is a prestigious grande école de commerce et de management, recognized as a private research university business school that emphasizes excellence in business education and research.
Established: Founded in 1907, ESSEC Business School has been a leader in business education for over 118 years, continually evolving to meet the needs of a dynamic global market.
Accreditation: ESSEC holds the prestigious triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, placing it among the select group of business schools that meet the highest international standards.
Academic affiliation: The school is affiliated with the Conférence des Grandes écoles and CY Cergy Paris University, ensuring it is deeply embedded in France's academic and business communities.
President: Vincenzo Esposito Vinzi is the current president of ESSEC Business School, guiding the institution with a clear vision to maintain its leadership in global business education.
Academic staff: With 142 academic staff members, all of whom hold PhDs, ESSEC ensures that students receive top-tier education from highly qualified and diverse faculty, with 36% female and 58% international representation.
Students: ESSEC Business School serves a student body of 5,000 individuals, providing a rich and diverse learning environment that attracts students from all over the world.
Location: The school’s main campus is in Paris, France, with additional campuses in Queenstown, Singapore, and Rabat, Morocco, offering a global educational experience.
Language: ESSEC offers programs in both English-only and French-only instruction, catering to a diverse international student body and preparing them for global business challenges.
Website: For more information about ESSEC Business School’s programs and admissions, visit their official website at www.essec.edu.
ESSEC Business School is considered one of the leading business schools in France due to its longstanding reputation for academic excellence and its global influence. Founded in 1907, ESSEC has built a rich history of providing high-quality business education, preparing students to lead in various industries worldwide. The school is internationally recognized, holding the prestigious triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, ensuring that its programs meet the highest global standards. Furthermore, ESSEC is known for its rigorous academic programs, including the Grande École program, MBA, and specialized master's degrees, which attract top talent from around the world.
In addition to its academic strength, ESSEC’s strategic location in Paris, along with campuses in La Défense, Rabat, and Singapore, offers students unparalleled access to global business networks and job opportunities. The school’s diverse faculty and international student body create a dynamic learning environment where students can develop the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world. ESSEC’s strong ties with leading companies and its extensive alumni network provide valuable resources for graduates, further enhancing its position as a top choice among business schools in France.
Studying at ESSEC Business School in Paris offers several unique benefits for international students. Here are five key advantages:
Paris is one of the world's leading business hubs, providing students with direct access to a wide range of industries, international corporations, and startups. This makes it easier to secure internships, job opportunities, and networking connections.
Being in Paris, students can immerse themselves in both French culture and a diverse international environment, as ESSEC attracts students from all over the world. This multicultural setting enriches the learning experience and fosters cross-cultural understanding.
ESSEC offers world-class education with a strong emphasis on innovation and leadership. Students also benefit from the school’s close ties with global companies, offering networking opportunities and exposure to high-level industry professionals.
Paris is home to many multinational corporations, including finance, technology, and consulting giants. Studying at ESSEC provides students the opportunity to interact with these companies and increase their chances of securing top internships and full-time positions.
ESSEC’s extensive alumni network spans across the globe, providing students with mentorship and career support throughout their professional journeys. This network adds significant value to students seeking advice, connections, or job opportunities after graduation.
the various MBA programs offered by ESSEC Business School, along with their benefits. The table below summarizes the programs' durations, features, and key advantages for students:
Program Name |
Duration |
Key Features |
Benefits |
Global MBA |
12-15 months |
International exposure, customizable tracks |
Access to global networks, cross-cultural experiences |
Executive MBA |
18-24 months |
Flexible learning schedule, designed for senior professionals |
Leadership development, strategic management skills |
MBA in Finance |
12 months |
Specialized in finance, CFA curriculum integration |
Expertise in global finance, high employability in finance roles |
MBA in Entrepreneurship |
12 months |
Focus on starting and scaling businesses |
Practical startup experience, mentorship from entrepreneurs |
Full-time MBA |
12 months |
Intensive full-time learning, immersion in the business world |
Fast-tracked career advancement, immersive learning environment |
Dual Degree MBA |
15-18 months |
Collaboration with partner schools, multiple degree opportunities |
Enhanced global career prospects, access to dual qualifications |
EMBA in Digital Transformation |
18-24 months |
Focus on tech and digital innovation, for professionals in tech fields |
Expertise in digital strategy, leadership in tech-driven industries |
Global Executive MBA |
18 months |
Tailored for senior executives, cross-border study modules |
Executive leadership skills, global industry exposure |
ESSEC & Mannheim Executive MBA |
18-24 months |
Partnership with Mannheim Business School, international focus |
Experience in European business environments, global network |
MBA in Luxury Management |
12 months |
Specialization in luxury brand management |
Expertise in luxury industry, access to high-end brands |
ESSEC Business School is widely regarded as one of the leading business schools in France, known for its rigorous academic programs, global perspective, and commitment to developing business leaders of tomorrow. Established in 1907, ESSEC has a long history of academic excellence, and its influence extends beyond France, with campuses in Singapore, Morocco, and numerous partnerships with top universities around the world. The school is consistently ranked among the top business schools globally, offering programs that cater to various career stages, including undergraduate, MBA, Executive MBA, and PhD programs.
What sets ESSEC apart is its strong emphasis on academic rigor combined with real-world application. The school’s academic framework is designed to prepare students for the complexities of the global business environment. Its diverse faculty, composed of top-tier scholars and practitioners, ensure that students receive the most up-to-date knowledge and insights. The integration of practical projects, internships, and exchange programs into the curriculum further equips students with the hands-on experience needed to excel in the business world.
ESSEC’s commitment to innovation and leadership development makes it one of the most respected business schools in Europe. It fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, offering specialized programs like the MBA in Entrepreneurship, which focuses on developing future business owners and innovators. The school also places a strong emphasis on leadership, with courses designed to enhance decision-making, critical thinking, and strategic management skills. This focus on leadership ensures that ESSEC graduates are well-prepared to take on senior management roles in any industry.
Finally, ESSEC Business School’s diverse student body and international focus contribute to its standing as a top French business school. With students hailing from over 90 countries, ESSEC promotes a truly global learning environment. Its robust network of alumni, including leaders in business, politics, and academia, provides students with unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, career development, and collaboration. ESSEC's dedication to creating leaders who will positively impact the global business landscape continues to solidify its place among the elite institutions in the world of business education.
To ensure a smooth and successful application process, international students must meet specific academic, language, and professional criteria. The requirements for admission are designed to assess the applicant's readiness for ESSEC’s challenging and prestigious programs. Below are the essential requirements for prospective international students.
International applicants must hold a recognized undergraduate degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. ESSEC requires proof of academic excellence through transcripts and academic records, ensuring applicants meet the standards for rigorous graduate-level education.
Since ESSEC offers many programs in English, international students whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests include TOEFL, IELTS, or other equivalent exams, ensuring students can engage with the curriculum effectively.
For MBA and certain postgraduate programs, ESSEC requires applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores. These standardized tests help assess analytical and quantitative skills, essential for success in the business programs at ESSEC.
For programs like the MBA and Executive MBA, ESSEC requires applicants to have relevant professional experience. This can vary by program, but generally, applicants should have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of work experience, particularly for leadership-focused degrees.
Applicants must submit personal statements or application essays reflecting their motivations, goals, and why they wish to study at ESSEC. Selected candidates are also invited for interviews, which help assess their fit for the program and their potential as future leaders.