ESDES Business School

ESDES rankings consistently earn strong recognition in global and student-focused academic circles. It was ranked among the Top 91 Best European Business Schools by the Financial Times and secured 3rd place in student satisfaction in France by Speak & Act. These rankings reflect both academic quality and a positive student experience.

Here’s a quick look at ESDES’s latest rankings and accreditations:

Next, let’s look at the top course-wise rankings

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

ESDES’s Master's in Management program continues to gain global recognition. It was ranked 93rd worldwide by the Financial Times, and consistently placed in the 151+ bracket by QS over the past three years. These rankings highlight the program's growing international reputation and academic strength.

Below is a snapshot of recent course-wise rankings:

Now that the rankings are established, let’s take a look at what the admission process looks like at ESDES Business School.

ESDES Business School aligns with the common intakes in France, offering 2 main intakes and multiple opportunities for international students to apply throughout the year. 

For example, the Master’s in Management program has its standard intake scheduled for October 2025, allowing students ample time for visa processing, financial planning, and relocation. This flexibility helps students plan ahead for visa processing and other preparations. 

Below are the key application deadlines for international applicants.

Note: These dates are subject to change, and additional deadlines may apply for specific programs. Please refer to the official ESDES Business School website for the most up-to-date information.

As you plan your application timeline, it’s equally important to explore the range of academic options available at ESDES Business School.

When exploring the top reasons to study in France, ESDES Business School stands out for its global perspective, inclusive environment, and student-focused approach. 

The school offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to attract international applicants, with over 20% of its student body coming from outside France.

Here’s a closer look at the admission requirements for international students.

Admission Requirements

To apply to ESDES Business School, international students must meet several key admission criteria. These include relevant academic qualifications, proof of language proficiency, and in some cases, scores from competitive exams like the GMAT. 

Additionally, students must fulfill all visa requirements for studying in France, including submitting financial documents and a Statement of Purpose.

Now, let’s break down the specific academic qualifications you’ll need to apply.

Academic Qualifications

Here is a detailed overview of the academic qualifications:

Note: Requirements may vary by program. Please check the official website for more specific details.

Next, let’s review the language proficiency requirements for ESDES admissions.

Language Proficiency

English proficiency is a crucial requirement for success in the international environment at ESDES. The school asks for proof of English language proficiency, either through standardized tests or through evidence of prior studies in English. 

Candidates with sufficient qualifications or background in English are exempt from this requirement. 

Below are the details:

Note: Meeting the minimum score is required, but competitive applicants often submit higher scores to increase their chances of admission. 

These language standards help ensure that international students are well-prepared to fully engage with the academic environment at ESDES.

Competitive Exams

ESDES Business School does not require competitive exams like the GRE or GMAT for admission. The admissions process focuses on evaluating your application form, supporting documents, and a personal interview. 

After the application is reviewed, eligible candidates will be invited for an interview via Teams or Zoom. The final admission results are communicated via email. 

Visa Requirements 

For international students planning to study at ESDES Business School, securing a France student visa is a crucial part of the admission process. 

Among the required documents, proof of financial means is crucial; students must show they can support themselves with at least €615 (INR 60K) per month for one academic year. 

This can include bank statements or scholarship confirmations. Starting the visa application early is recommended to avoid delays.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential visa documents:

These documents are necessary to ensure that international students can financially support themselves while studying in France.

ESDES Business School offers 8 distinct degree programs across its Lyon and Annecy campuses, including 1 Bachelor's degree, 3 MSc programs, and 3 MBA programs. With over 15 specialization options, students benefit from a variety of flexible study formats, including apprenticeships and double degrees.

Here is a detailed overview of the programs and courses offered:

Understanding the variety of programs at ESDES, it’s essential to consider the financial investment required for your chosen course.

Understanding the full cost of studying is essential for planning finances, applying for scholarships, and meeting visa funding requirements. The cost of studying at ESDES Business School varies by program, with tuition fees ranging from €9,200 (9.1L INR) for the Bachelor’s in Business to €15,000 (14.5L INR) for certain MSc programs. Additional costs include a non-refundable application fee of €50 (4.8K INR) and an annual student fee of €250 (24K INR). 

Below is a detailed breakdown of tuition fees for each program.

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. The INR conversion is based on current exchange rates and may vary.

Along with the cost of tuition fees, you may also need to be prepared for the cost of living. Let’s discuss that next.

The estimated average monthly cost of living in France ranges from €300 to €650 (29K – 64K INR) for accommodation, and €200 to €350 (19.4K – 33.9K INR) for food. These costs will vary depending on individual lifestyle and location. Knowing these expenses helps students budget effectively and prepare for a smooth transition abroad.

Let's take a closer look at the breakdown of these expenses in detail.

Note: The INR conversions are approximate and based on current exchange rates.

Planning your finances is just as important as choosing the right course, and scholarships can make your studies at ESDES Business School more affordable. Let's look at what you can apply for in 2025.

For non-EU students, program fees at ESDES Business School range from approximately €9,200 to €15,000 (INR 9.10 L to 14.8 L) per year, depending on the course. Bachelor’s programs start around €9,200 annually, while specialized master’s degrees like the MSc in Sustainable Tourism and Event Management cost up to €15,000 (INR 14.8 L) and a €50 (INR 4.9K) application fee and optional campus service charges may also apply.

Note: 

• Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please check the official University website for the most up-to-date information.
• The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Before making a decision about studying at ESDES Business School, understanding the total cost is also important for effective planning and financial security.

ESDES Business School offers a wide array of scholarships to help ease the financial burden for students pursuing higher education in France. These include both internal and external opportunities supported by the government. 

Some of these options qualify as a fully funded scholarship in France, covering tuition, living expenses, and more.

Let’s look at the internal scholarships.

Internal Scholarships

ESDES offers several internal scholarships, such as the UCLY Scholarship, to support students with strong academics, financial need, or active participation in extracurricular activities. 

These are part of the broader range of France scholarships for Indian students, helping make higher education in France more accessible and affordable.

Here’s a closer look at what ESDES provides:

Next, let’s look at the external scholarships.

External Scholarships

In addition to internal funding, students can explore several external scholarships that offer significant financial support. These are especially helpful for international applicants, including those looking to study in France for free.  

Scholarships such as the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship offer financial support to international students, including those from India.

Here’s a detailed look at the available external scholarships:

Now that you have explored the financial aspects of studying at ESDES, let's check out the placement outcomes at the institute.

Student life in France at ESDES Business School blends academics with rich cultural experiences. From international dinners and local outings to the Buddy Program, students enjoy meaningful opportunities to connect and adapt. These activities support a well-rounded and engaging university experience.

Here are these activities organized for both international and local students:

• Integration Day: On the first day, international students participate in an integration day to meet their peers and start building friendships from day one.
• Cooking Class: Students can participate in a cooking class, where they prepare traditional French dishes under the guidance of a chef.
• Dinner with a French Family: This unique experience invites students to dine with a French family in their home, offering an intimate glimpse into French culture and cuisine.
• International Evening: Held at the start of the school year, this evening provides students with the chance to meet other students in a fun atmosphere.
• International Dinner: Students bring dishes from their home countries to share with others, creating an evening of cultural exchange through food and cuisine.
• Cultural Outings: Students participate in outings that include visiting the medieval village of Pérouges, the Maison de Canuts to explore Lyon’s silk heritage, and wine tasting in the Beaujolais region.
• Global Village: This annual event showcases the diversity of ESDES’s international student body through food, music, and cultural activities, celebrating multiculturalism.
• Additional Activities: The International Students Club organizes various fun activities, including ski week, karting nights, and visits to a chocolate factory.
• University-Wide Cultural Events:  events like language cafés, film screenings, welcome cocktails, wine and cheese evenings, and sports challenges, providing cross-campus opportunities for students to connect and engage with others.
• Buddy Program: To help international students adjust to French life, the Buddy Program pairs them with local French students who help them settle in socially and academically.

Now that you have seen the student life at ESDES, let’s explore how alumni from the ESDES Business School are making waves in the business world.

ESDES supports students’ career growth throughout the program, guiding them from personal development to job readiness. Students learn employability skills, professional tools like CV writing, and prepare for interviews with the help of career consultants. 

ESDES Business School integrates internships and co-op programs into both its Bachelor's and Master's programs in Management, emphasizing practical experience as the key educational approach.

Here’s how it works:

Bachelor's in Business – International Track:

• Year 1 – Sales Internship: Students undertake a 4-week sales internship in December, focusing on developing communication and sales skills.
• Year 2 – Pre-Specialization Internship: A 12-week internship starting in May allows students to explore various business functions and industries.
• Year 3 – Final Year Internship: A 6-month internship from January provides in-depth experience in a chosen specialization, such as marketing, finance, or international business.

Master's in Management Program:

• 4th Year – Advanced Internship: A 6-month internship beginning in January enables students to apply advanced management concepts in real-world settings.
• 5th Year – Final Year Internship: Another 6-month internship starting in January, focusing on leadership roles and strategic decision-making.

Internship Support and Platforms:

• Internship Department: Helps students find internships through partner offers and supports them with organization, approval, and supervision.
• PEP’s Program: Provides personalized career support through workshops, coaching, and networking to prepare students for employment.
• Internship Platforms: Gives access to Club Teli, HigherED, and iAgora for internship opportunities in France and abroad.

Let’s move on and look at the top recruiters hiring from the ESDES Business School.

Top Recruiters at ESDS Business School

ESDES Business School collaborates with leading companies to offer students meaningful career paths through internships, part-time jobs, work-study contracts, and full-time positions. 

Employers such as Bayer, Sanofi, Techtera, Babolat, GL Events, Panzani, Aosta, and Blédina actively recruit from the school across sectors like healthcare, textiles, sports, events, and food.

Here are some of the top recruiters and the opportunities they provide for ESDES students.

• Bayer and Sanofi recruit graduates for roles such as Product Manager, Marketing Coordinator, and Business Development Associate in the healthcare and life sciences sector.
• Techtera, Babolat, and GL Events offer positions like Project Manager, Event Coordinator, and Communication Officer in the textile, sports, and event management industries.
• Panzani, Aosta, and Blédina regularly hire students for roles in Sales, Supply Chain Analysis, and Brand Management within the food industry.
• Regional companies in Lyon provide access to internships, part-time jobs, and work-study contracts, helping students transition quickly into full-time careers.

Next, let’s look at the student life at the ESDES Business School. H.

ESDES Business School is proud of its growing community of over 6,000 alumni who have made impactful contributions across diverse industries. 

From leading roles in human resources and finance to innovations in health tech, real estate, and social entrepreneurship, ESDES graduates continue to shape the business world in meaningful ways.

Here are a few distinguished alumni and their contributions.

Now that you are aware of the contributions of alumni at ESDES Business School, let’s examine how the school compares to other institutions.

ESDES Business School operates across two campuses in Lyon and Annecy, each offering a unique experience. While the Lyon campus serves as the primary academic hub, the Annecy campus provides a scenic and serene environment for focused study.

Here are the details of the two campuses of ESDES Business School:

Lyon Campus

• Modern Facilities: The campus offers 35,000 square metres of academic space with lecture halls, computer labs, and an Amphitheatre to support learning.
• Cross-Disciplinary Access: Students benefit from UCLy’s shared research labs and collaborative projects across faculties.
• Global & Social Focus: Active student groups like the International Students Club and SoliCity initiatives support global engagement and social responsibility.

Annecy Campus

• Collaborative Learning Spaces: Offers shared offices, creative zones, and a student-led movie club that encourages teamwork.
• Small Cohort Advantage: Enables closer interaction with faculty and a more personalized academic experience.
• Community-Driven Life: Promotes strong peer connections through project-based coursework and integrated campus activities.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the campuses, let’s move ahead and look at the prominent rankings that ESDES Business School holds.

When comparing some of the best universities in France for business education, ESDES, Emlyon, and BSB each bring unique strengths. However, ESDES holds prestigious accreditation such as AACSB, along with a student-centered approach, a smaller class size of teacher-student ratio 1:25, and affordable tuition fees.

Here's a detailed comparison to help you evaluate your options effectively:

This comparison highlights how ESDES balances international accreditation, student-focused support, and accessible tuition, making it a strong choice for students seeking quality business education in France.