HEC Paris

HEC Paris is one of Europe's most famous business schools. Its MBA is offered as an accelerated 12-month programme or in a 16-month format, both combining core learning with options to shape the later part of the programme. Here is what Indian applicants should know for 2027-28.

Key facts for 2027-28

Location	Jouy-en-Josas (near Paris), France
Founded	1881
Type	Business school
Programme	HEC Paris MBA
Formats	12-month accelerated or 16-month
Language	English

Always check fees, dates and rules for your intake on the official university website before you apply or pay.

About HEC Paris

HEC Paris was founded in 1881 by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It is consistently ranked among the best business schools in Europe and the world, and its alumni lead companies across many industries. The campus is in Jouy-en-Josas, a green area south-west of Paris, near Versailles.

The HEC Paris MBA

HEC lists two formats:

• 12-month accelerated MBA: for professionals who want to return to work quickly.
• 16-month MBA: with more time for electives, specialisations, exchanges or internships.

Both begin with core courses (finance, strategy, marketing, leadership, economics and operations) and then let students shape the second part through electives, specialisations and projects. Teaching is in English, with a very international class.

Why applicants consider HEC Paris

• A top global MBA brand with a large alumni network.
• Strong links with consulting, finance, luxury and technology companies.
• A choice of 12 or 16 months.
• Access to Paris and the European market.

Things to think about

• Admission is highly selective and expects significant experience.
• Tuition and Paris living costs are high.
• The campus is outside central Paris, so plan housing and commuting.

How to apply

Apply in HEC's admission rounds with your degree, CV, GMAT or GRE (or accepted alternative), English proof, essays and recommendations, followed by interviews. After admission, complete the Campus France process and the student visa.

Fees and costs

Ask HEC for the 2027-28 tuition and scholarships, including those for Indian applicants. Add housing, insurance, living costs and visa fees.

Life near Paris

HEC's campus sits in woodland in Jouy-en-Josas, with on-campus housing options and shuttle links. Central Paris is about 45–60 minutes away by public transport. Paris offers world-famous culture, food and business networks, and has a growing Indian community. Winters are cool and summers are warm.

Funding your MBA

HEC Paris offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including awards for candidates from particular regions or with special profiles. Early-round applicants are usually considered first. Indian education loans and employer sponsorship are also common. Read every scholarship's conditions before you accept an offer.

Is this MBA right for you?

The HEC Paris MBA suits ambitious professionals with strong experience who want a top global brand and are targeting consulting, finance, luxury, technology or general management roles internationally. Choose the 12-month format if you want to return to work quickly, or the 16-month format if you want time for an internship, exchange or career switch. Because admission is very competitive, prepare your GMAT or GRE and essays carefully and apply in an early round.

Careers after an MBA in France

France is one of Europe's largest economies, with world-leading companies in luxury goods, aerospace, energy, banking, consulting, food and technology. Paris is also a growing hub for start-ups and finance. Graduates with a master's-level qualification from France may apply for a temporary residence permit to look for work or start a business, and those with a job offer can apply for a work permit. Many large companies work in English, but French is important for many roles and for daily life. Start French classes before or during the programme, attend career fairs, and use the alumni network actively.

France has also announced visa facilities for Indian alumni of French higher education, which can make later business travel to Europe easier. Check the current conditions with Campus France India.

Before you apply to HEC Paris

Check the work experience, test (GMAT, GRE or the school's own) and English requirements, and confirm the exact award: a master's degree, a postgraduate diploma or a certificate. For government jobs or further study in India, foreign degree equivalence is handled by the UGC. Our MBA abroad guide covers choosing a programme, funding and careers in detail.

2027-28 intake timeline

• Now: prepare for the GMAT or GRE and choose your format and start date.
• Autumn 2026 – spring 2027: apply in the school's rounds and attend interviews.
• After the offer: complete the Campus France process and apply for the long-stay student visa.

Related guides

For the bigger picture beyond HEC Paris, read these guides:

• MBA in France: living costs, visa, climate, student life and the full admission process in France.
• MBA abroad guide: eligibility, recognition in India, costs and choosing a country.
• Compare other universities by country, course and city.

How PSP Education can help

PSP Education has guided Indian students since 1992 and can help you decide whether HEC Paris suits you and apply before the 2027-28 deadlines. Book a free counselling session using the form on this page.

Summary and official sources

HEC Paris lists an accelerated 12-month MBA and a 16-month format. Both combine core learning with opportunities to shape the later part of the programme. The campus is in Jouy-en-Josas, outside central Paris, so consider accommodation and commuting when planning your stay.

Courses and official information

• HEC Paris MBA — 12-month accelerated or 16-month format. Official programme information. Explore this course.

Visit the official university website for current admission rules, fees and application dates.