ESDES Business School Admission

Lyon France, France

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ESDES offers 40 programs in collaboration with more than 14 partner institutions, including universities in the UK, the USA, China, and Argentina, enabling students to earn two master’s degrees within one or two semesters.

ESDES Business School is a prominent institution in France, known for its competitive admissions and diverse academic programs. With over 2,200 students, 20% of whom are international, it offers a globally minded learning environment. Ranked among the 91 best business schools in Europe, ESDES continues to attract applicants seeking high-quality education in France.

With its strategic location in Lyon and a campus in Annecy, ESDES Business School provides students with the opportunity to study in France and gain access to a world-class business education.

The school’s diverse academic community, strong industry connections, and focus on international exposure make it an ideal choice for those looking to pursue higher education in one of the best countries to study in Europe.

The table below outlines important ESDES Business School admission facts that you should know before applying:

Feature	Details
Established Year	1987
Affiliation	Part of the Catholic University of Lyon (UCLy)
Accreditations	AACSB, EFMD
Campuses	Lyon (Saint-Paul) Annecy (Alpes Europe)
Intakes	September and December
Annual Tuition Fees	Bachelor's: €11,900/year (11.5L INR) MBA: €14,200/year (13.7L INR) MSc Programs: €14,200/year (13.7L INR)
Duration of Courses	Bachelor's: 3 years MBA: 2 years MSc Programs: 1 year
Top Programs	MBA (Grande Ecole Program) MSc in Circular Economy & Sustainable Innovation MSc in Impact Finance & Fintech Management MSc in Sustainable Tourism & Event Management
Admission Application Fees	€50 (4.8K INR) (non-refundable)

Having explored ESDES Business School details, let’s now understand ESDES Business School admission deadlines.

ESDES Business School Admission Dates

ESDES Business School offers two main intakes for students: a Winter Intake and a Standard Intake. The Winter Intake, starting in December, is available for specialized programs, while the Standard Intake, which begins in September, is offered for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

These flexible admission dates, along with the intakes in France, provide students the opportunity to plan their academic journey according to their preferred timeline.

Let’s explore the details of each intake and their respective deadlines.

Winter Intake

ESDES Business School’s winter intake is designed to provide greater flexibility for students who prefer a mid-year academic start or miss the standard fall application cycle. The Master’s in International Business begins in December, while the Bachelor’s program starts in February.

See the winter intake programs and deadlines below:

Program	Start Date	Application Deadline
Bachelor's (First Year - Winter Intake)	17 February 2025	Closed
Master’s (Winter Intake - International Business)	October 31, 2024	Closed

Next, let’s look at the standard intake at ESDES Business School

Standard Intake

ESDES Business School’s standard intake follows the traditional academic calendar, offering a September 2025 start for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. The application deadline for this intake is May 16, 2025 (Closed).

Here are the key dates:

Program	Start Date	Application Deadline
Bachelor's	NA	NA
Master’s (Standard Intake - Management)	October, 2025	Not Specified

Now that you know the intake deadlines, let’s understand the ESDES Business School admission process for a successful application submission.

ESDES Business School Admission Process

ESDES Business School’s international recognition is backed by its consistent placement in the 151+ band in the QS World University Rankings for its Master in Management program, reflecting strong academic standards and career-oriented training. The school’s admission journey is structured to be accessible and supportive for students from around the world.

Here’s a step-by-step look at how to apply and gain ESDES Business School admission:

Choose Your Program: ESDES Business School offers various programs, including Bachelor's, Master's, MSc, and Exchange Programs. Select one that fits your academic background and career aspirations.
Prepare Required Documents
To apply for ESDES Business School admission, you’ll need several documents such as:
- Completed Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of English/French Proficiency
- Recommendation Letters
- Passport Copy & Photograph
- Application Fee of €50 (INR 4.9K)
Submit Your Application: Complete the online application for ESDES Business School admission, ensuring that you upload all necessary documents accurately. An incomplete application may cause delays in processing.
Attend the Interview: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview online via Skype or Teams. This interview will assess your motivation, communication skills, and alignment with the school’s values.
Receive Admission Decision: After the interview, you will receive the admission decision. If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter that outlines the next steps for finalizing your enrollment.
Finalize Enrollment: To finalize your enrollment, you will need to do the following:
- Pay a €3,000 (INR 2.9L) deposit
- Complete the CVEC payment
- Submit proof of health insurance
Prepare for Arrival: Once enrolled, ESDES Business School offers support for international students, including:
- France student visa assistance
- Accommodation options, and
- Orientation programs to help you settle into life in Lyon or Annecy.

Begin your application to ESDES Business School with confidence. Schedule a free one-on-one counseling session with an upGrad expert for personalized advice on eligibility, documentation, and submission timelines.

Now that you have explored the admission procedure, let's understand the admission process for the MBA at ESDES Business School.

ESDES Business School MBA Admissions

The ESDES Business School MBA is a full-time, two-year program designed for candidates with substantial professional and academic backgrounds. ESDES’s Global MBA ranks 93rd in the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings, showcasing its strong international standing and career-focused curriculum.

While GRE or GMAT scores are not required, applicants must demonstrate academic readiness, language proficiency, and professional experience through other key application components.

MBA Admission Requirement

The 2-year, full-time MBA is taught entirely in English and offers three in-demand specializations: International Business, International Supply Chain & Purchasing, and Strategic Marketing & Innovation. Flexible English proficiency options make the program accessible to a wider range of applicants.

Here’s a breakdown of the key MBA admission requirements and evaluation criteria:

Criteria	Details
Academic Background	Bachelor's degree (Bac+3 or equivalent, 180 ECTS credits) Or currently completing the third year.
Language Proficiency	English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, or equivalent) is preferred but not mandatory. Students can take the official English exam, Easy Speaking, at ESDES Business School.
Application Documents	Completed application form CV Cover letter Academic transcripts Proof of English proficiency €50 (INR 4.9K) application fee Passport photo.
Interview	Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview via Teams or Skype to assess motivation and fit.
Program Details	Full-time 2-year program Taught in English 3 specializations available.
Evaluation Weighting	For applicants required to take an English test: Application form: 10 points English test: 4 points Interview: 6 points Total: 20 points
Evaluation Weighting	For applicants exempt from the English test: Application form: 10 points - Personal interview: 10 points Total: 20 points

After understanding the MBA admission requirements, let’s have a look at the scholarship opportunities available to support international MBA candidates at ESDES Business School.

MBA Scholarships

ESDES Business School offers access to fully funded scholarships for eligible MBA students, easing the financial burden of pursuing a top-tier education. These include merit-based and government-backed options that support students based on academic excellence and social criteria. Scholarships like the UCLY Scholarship and the CROUS Scholarship provide meaningful financial aid throughout the duration of the program.

Here’s a detailed look at the MBA scholarships available at ESDES Business School.

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Details
UCLY Scholarship	Merit-based Scholarship	Eligibility: For students who have attended UCLY for at least one year and are under 28 years old. Benefits: Follow-up study grant for students continuing their studies at UCLY, based on academic and social criteria.
CROUS Scholarship	Government-based Scholarship	Eligibility: Available for Master’s students based on social criteria. Benefits: Financial assistance to Master’s students to help cover living and study costs. Reapplication is possible each year.

If you're exploring advanced, career-focused graduate programs beyond the MBA, ESDES Business School’s Master of Science (MS) offerings provide a diverse option in high-demand fields.

ESDES Business School MS Admissions

Pursuing a Master’s in France offers the opportunity to gain a globally recognized education with strong industry alignment, and ESDES Business School is no exception.

The school’s MS programs are full-time, English-taught, and include 3 specializations in areas such as M.Sc. in Circular Economy and Sustainable Innovation.

MS Admission Requirement

To apply for the MS program at ESDES Business School, candidates must have completed or be finishing a four-year degree (240 ECTS credits), which can be estimated using an ECTS credit calculator.

A minimum B2 English level is required, equivalent to a 5.5 IELTS band score, with the option to take the Easy Speaking exam at ESDES.

Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria and details for ESDES Business School admissions in Master of Science:

Criteria	Details
Academic Background	Must have completed or be finishing a four-year degree (equivalent to 240 ECTS).
Language Proficiency	A minimum of a B2 level in English (equivalent to a 5.5 IELTS score) is required. English proficiency is preferred but not mandatory. Students can take the official Easy Speaking exam at ESDES Business School.
Application Documents	Completed application form CV and cover letter Academic transcripts Proof of English proficiency or proof of 2 years of English-taught courses €50 (INR 4.9K) application fee Passport photo Letter of recommendation
Interview	Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview via Teams or Skype in English to assess motivation and fit.
Program Details	Full-time 2-year program Taught in English. 3 specializations available.
Evaluation Weighting	For applicants required to take an English test: Application form: 10 points English test: 3 points Personal interview: 7 points Total: 20 points
Evaluation Weighting	For applicants exempt from the English test: Application form: 10 points Personal interview: 10 points Total: 20 points.

Before applying for admission to MS studies, let’s explore some scholarship options that ESDES offers to support its students.

MS Scholarships

For Indian students aspiring to pursue a Master’s at ESDES Business School, several France scholarships for Indian students make studying abroad more accessible.

These government-funded opportunities support academic goals while easing financial stress. Notable options include the Charpak Scholarship, and Erasmus+, which covers a broad range of academic costs.

Below is a detailed overview of MS scholarships available:

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Details
French Government Charpak Scholarship	Government-funded	Eligibility: Indian students through Campus France India. Benefits: Provides a tuition grant ranging from €3,000 to €13,000, depending on the study program year.
Erasmus+ Scholarships	Government-funded	Eligibility: Available to international students participating in exchange programs within the EU. Benefits: Covers travel and daily living expenses, tuition fees, registration and examination fees, and charges for laboratory or library access.
Campus Bourses Grants	French/Foreign Govts	Eligibility: Open to international students Benefits: Range from €1,000–€1,200/month (INR 94K–1.13 L)

Next, let's understand the detailed ESDES Business School admission requirements for bachelor’s programs.

ESDES Business School Bachelor's Admission

If you're wondering how to get a Bachelor's degree from ESDES Business School, the process is structured, straightforward, and designed to assess both academic potential and personal motivation.

With a strong focus on international education, the school welcomes students from around the world into its English-taught Bachelor's programs.

Bachelor's Admission Requirement

To apply for the Bachelor’s program at ESDES Business School, you need a recognized high school diploma and a minimum B2 level in English, such as an IELTS score of 5.5 or a TOEFL 550.

Submit the required documents and attend an online interview. The evaluation is out of 20 points, so be sure to prepare your application thoroughly and use interview preparation tips to make a strong impression.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of ESDES Business School’s admission criteria for bachelor’s.

Criteria	Details
Academic Background	Hold a recognized high school diploma or secondary school certificate (e.g., Baccalaureate, A levels). Must be in good academic standing.
Language Proficiency	Minimum B2 level in English TOEFL: 550 IELTS: 5.5 TOEIC 785 EasySPEAKing 60-74.
Application Documents	Completed application form Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English Cover letter in English Official secondary education transcripts High school diploma or secondary school certificate - Official English test results (TOEIC, BULATS, TOEFL, IELTS, CAMBRIDGE, EasySPEAKing*) - Optional: One recommendation letter from a professor or business professional - €50 application fee (4.8K INR)
Interview	Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview via Skype or Teams to assess motivation and fit for the program.
Program Details	Full-time program taught in English. Specialization is available after Year 1.
Evaluation Weighting	Application form: 10 points Interview: 10 points Total: 20 points

While compiling your application, it's equally important to explore the financial aid options available to undergraduate students at ESDES Business School.

Bachelor's Scholarships

If you're planning to study in France from India, ESDES Business School offers valuable financial support through various scholarship opportunities for Bachelor's students.

Known for its international academic standards, ESDES Business School ranking has remained consistent in the QS 151+ band, reflecting its quality education and growing global appeal.

Here are the top scholarships available for international applicants:

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Details
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program	Government-funded	Eligibility: Awarded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to international students. Benefits: Provides a monthly stipend, travel assistance, accommodation, and insurance.
Inlaks Scholarships	Merit-based, foundation	Eligibility: Indian students with outstanding achievements. Benefits: Financial support that covers tuition, living expenses, and other costs.

Beyond student support and scholarships, it’s essential to consider the broader advantages of choosing ESDES, particularly how its rankings align with program accessibility and academic quality.

Advantages of getting into ESDES Business School for a bachelor's

Among the top reasons to study in France, ESDES Business School stands out for its internationally recognized programs, diverse academic offerings, and commitment to experiential learning.

Its AACSB accreditation, English-taught curriculum, and dual degree options ensure a global edge, while humanitarian projects and career support services add practical and ethical value to students' academic journeys.

Here are the key advantages of getting into ESDES Business School for a Bachelor's Degree:

State-Recognized Degree: The Bachelor in Business program is accredited by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, granting the "grade de licence" (Bac+3)
AACSB Accreditation: ESDES is among the top 6% of global business schools holding the prestigious AACSB accreditation, ensuring high academic standards.
International Exposure: Students are required to spend at least one semester abroad during their studies, with opportunities for internships or exchange programs at partner universities worldwide.
English-Taught Curriculum: The program is 100% taught in English, attracting a diverse student body from over 35 nationalities.
Humanitarian Engagement: Through the SoliCity program, students participate in a minimum of two months of humanitarian, social, or civic missions, learning social responsibility.
Specialization Options: In the third year, students can specialize in areas such as Wine & Gastronomy, Health & Well-being, Social Business, or Collaborative Economy.
Dual Degree Opportunities: Students can pursue a double degree by spending their third year abroad at partner institutions, such as the University of Pécs (Hungary), and earn degrees from both ESDES and the partner university.
Career Support: ESDES offers personalized career coaching, company visits, and access to a network of alumni and professionals, enhancing employability upon graduation.

These advantages make ESDES Business School a compelling choice for students seeking a comprehensive and internationally recognized Bachelor's program in business. Next let’s discuss what kind of support is available for international students.

ESDES Business School Student Support Services

ESDES Business School supports international students with visa guidance, health coverage, scholarships, and help finding accommodation in France, easing their transition into academic and daily life.

Understanding student life in France and managing the cost of living in France are also important parts of settling in, and the school provides resources to support these areas.

Here’s a look at the student support services available at ESDES.

International Student Support: Guidance on visa applications, residence permits, and settling into French student life with support from regional officers.
Accommodation Assistance: Help finding housing through partnerships with local residences and guidance on the French housing system.
Health Coverage Guidance: Assistance with French Social Security registration for students under 28, ensuring proper health coverage.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships such as the Excellence Scholarship, plus access to housing subsidies through the French CAF system.
Career Services: Career coaching, internships, and work-study programs to boost employability and professional experience.
Cultural and Social Integration: Over 20 student associations and the SoliCity program, which encourages participation in humanitarian or social projects.
Language Support: French language courses to help students integrate socially and academically.
Orientation Programs: Sessions to familiarize students with campus facilities, academic expectations, and available resources.
Alumni Network: Access to a global network of alumni for mentorship and professional connections.

These services ensure that students have the resources they need both academically and personally throughout their time at ESDES. With dedicated support across housing, career development, and cultural integration, the school aims to provide a well-rounded student experience.

FAQs

What are the application requirements for international students applying to ESDES Business School?

International applicants need a completed application form, a CV, a cover letter, academic transcripts, and a €50 (INR 4.9K) application fee. Additionally, students must provide a copy of their passport and, if applicable, a letter of recommendation. Candidates will also undergo a personal interview, usually online through Teams or Skype.

Are there any special admission criteria for students from non-business backgrounds?

Yes, ESDES Business School welcomes students from non-business backgrounds. They are required to meet the same academic standards, but their application may be evaluated based on additional criteria like motivation and the potential for growth in business studies. Non-business students are often given opportunities to bridge gaps in business fundamentals during the first year.

Can I apply for early admission to ESDES Business School?

ESDES offers rolling admissions, but early application is encouraged for better chances of securing scholarships and preferred housing. While there isn't a formal "early admission" program, applying well in advance ensures timely processing and more options for international students.

What are the chances of admission if I have a low GMAT or GRE score?

While GMAT or GRE scores can strengthen your application, ESDES evaluates applicants holistically. A low score can be offset by strong academic records, relevant work experience, and a strong motivation during the interview. ESDES has a flexible approach and values a well-rounded profile.

How long does it take to process an application for admission to ESDES Business School?

Application processing typically takes 4-6 weeks after all documents have been submitted. Applicants are usually notified of their admission status via email following the interview and review process.

Is it possible to apply for a dual degree program at ESDES Business School?

Yes, ESDES offers dual degree options, allowing students to spend their third year abroad at partner institutions such as the ESCA Business School (Morocco), earning degrees from both ESDES and the partner university.

How do I prepare for the admission interview at ESDES Business School?

To prepare for the interview, focus on showcasing your motivation, career goals, and how ESDES aligns with your aspirations. Be ready to discuss your academic background and any work or volunteer experiences that demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and initiative.

Are there any specific English language proficiency requirements for non-native speakers?

Yes, non-native speakers must demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of at least 550, an IELTS score of 5.5, or a TOEIC score of 785. Alternatively, students can take the Easy Speaking exam offered by ESDES, which is recognized as an equivalent measure of proficiency.

Can I submit a conditional offer for admission if I am still awaiting my final exam results?

Yes, ESDES allows conditional offers based on pending final exam results. If you're waiting for your final exam results, you can submit your application, and if accepted, the offer will be contingent upon your exam performance.

What is the admission policy for students who wish to transfer from another business school?

ESDES Business School allows transfer students, particularly for those in the second or third year of their program. Transfer students must meet the same academic standards, provide transcripts, and undergo an interview to ensure compatibility with the ESDES curriculum.

Does ESDES Business School offer any career counseling or job placement assistance for admitted students?

Yes, ESDES provides comprehensive career services, including career coaching, CV building, mock interviews, and job placement assistance. The school has strong industry connections, and students have access to internships and job opportunities with companies in sectors like finance, marketing, and consulting.

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