Candidates receive access to the interview platform and have 5 days to record responses to motivational, academic, and professional questions.
The interview typically lasts around 25–30 minutes, focusing on motivation, oral skills, and career goals (noted especially in preparatory tracks).
Decision & Enrollment
Admission results are communicated within 6 days of completing the interview.
If admitted, a deposit (part of the first year's fees) is due by a specified deadline.
Admissions at Excelia Tourism School follow a five‑step process: a €50 (INR 5K) application fee must be paid online, followed by a video interview, with results delivered within 6 days of the interview.
Excelia Tourism School is one of the top universities to study at in France. Excelia Tourism School is ranked within the #151–160 range globally for Hospitality & Leisure Management in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. This placement results from a hard evaluation of over 1,559 institutions across 55 disciplines.
This blog explores Excelia Tourism School admission requirements, rankings, and application process, and provides essential insights for international candidates, equipping you to study successfully in France with confidence.
Here are Excelia Tourism School Admission key facts & statistics:
Category
Details
Total Enrollment
500 students in Tourism & Hospitality programmes, within Excelia’s total of 6,500 students.
International Students
125 international Tourism students (25% of 500), consistent with Excelia’s total international enrolment of 1,625 (25%)
90% of MSc Tourism graduates secure employment within 6 months.
42% work internationally
Before exploring each program in detail, it’s important to first walk through the key stages of the Excelia Tourism School admissions journey, ensuring your application is precise, complete, and submitted on schedule.
Excelia Tourism School Admission Dates
Excelia Tourism School offers flexible intakes in France, with start options in September and April for core programmes, and June/July for short-term summer courses. Through its extensive international network, the school collaborates with 233 universities abroad across 57 countries, providing a rich cross-cultural learning environment.
As you prepare for the summer session, here’s a detailed overview of the short‑term programmes available during the June–July intake:
Summer Intake (June/July)
For Summer 2025, Excelia Tourism School offers a dedicated Summer School featuring tracks in Corporate Social Responsibility and Event Management, Fashion, Design, and Luxury, Digital Marketing, French Language, Culture, and Gastronomy (including sports).
Sessions run from late June to mid‑July, with clearly defined nomination and application deadlines.
Refer to the table below to check the key Summer intake deadlines at Excelia Tourism School.
Program
Application Type
Application Deadline (2025)
Summer School: CSR & Event Management
Final application
April 15, 2025 (Closed)
Summer School: Fashion, Design & Luxury Industry
Final application
April 15, 2025 (Closed)
Summer School: Digital Marketing (Online)
Final application
April 15, 2025 (Closed)
Summer School: French Language, Culture & Gastronomy
Final application
April 15, 2025 (Closed)
Summer School: French Language, Culture & Sports
Final application
April 15, 2025 (Closed)
Note: Deadlines are subject to change; confirm with the university admissions office before applying. For program-specific queries, visit the Excelia Tourism School or contact admissions directly.
Now that you're planning for the start of your academic year, here’s everything you need to know about joining Excelia during the Fall (September) intake.
Fall Intake (September)
For the September 2025 term, Excelia Tourism School offers its central Fall intake across its campuses in La Rochelle, Tours, and Paris.
The nomination deadline applies to partner exchange students; independent applicants follow the final application deadline. Sessions begin in mid‑September, with courses running through early October.
Refer to the table below to check the key Fall intake deadlines at Excelia Tourism School:
Program
Application Type
Application Deadline (2025)
Bachelor's in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Final application
Rolling admission until August 15, 2025
MSc in International Hospitality Management
Final application
Rolling admission until August 15, 2025
MSc in Tourism Projects and Innovation
Final application
Rolling admission until August 15, 2025
Note: Deadlines are subject to change; confirm with the university admissions office before applying. For program-specific queries, visit the Excelia Tourism School or contact admissions directly.
If you're ready to take the next step toward studying at Excelia, here’s how you can successfully guide the admission process from start to finish.
Excelia Tourism School Admission Process
The QS International Trade Rankings specifically spotlight Excelia Tourism School (placing its International Business MSc at 18th globally in 2025).
The Tourism School’s acclaim lies in being the first and only French institution awarded UNWTO TedQual certification across all its MSc programmes. Excelia Tourism School offers a structured and transparent admission process for the best courses to study in France.
The process varies slightly for domestic and international applicants, and even for bachelor's degrees and postgraduate courses, but generally includes the following steps:
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
Begin by completing the online application form on theExcelia Tourism School admissions portal. You will need to select your desired programme and pay a non-refundable admissions fee of €50 (INR 4.5K) via bank transfer or credit card.
Required Documents:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Proof of Current Academic Level: This could be your latest academic transcript or a certificate from your current institution.
Motivation Letter: Clearly articulate your reasons for choosing tourism studies and your career aspirations.
Step 2: Online Video Interview
After submitting your application, you will be invited to participate in a 25–30 minute online video interview. The interview can be conducted in either French or English, depending on your chosen programme. You will have a 5-day window to complete this interview.
Step 3: Await Admission Decision
Within 6 days of completing your interview, you will receive the admission results. If accepted, you will be required to pay a deposit, which will be deducted from your annual tuition fees.
Step 4: Administrative Assistance
Upon acceptance, Excelia provides support with the following:
Visa Application: Assistance in preparing the necessary documents for your French student visa.
Pre-enrolment Confirmation: Official documentation required for your visa application.
Step 5: Final Academic and Language Proof
To finalize your admission, you must provide:
Proof of Academic Qualifications: Official transcripts or certificates.
Language Proficiency: Depending on your programme, a minimum of CEFR B2 in French or English is required for Bachelor's, Master's, or MSc applicants. For foundation or preparatory programmes, a minimum level of A2 or B1 is needed.
Considering a career in tourism? Schedule a personalized 1:1 consultation with our experts to learn more about our programs, campus life, and the opportunities that await you.
If you're considering advancing your career with an internationally accredited tourism education, here's what you need to know about applying to Excelia Tourism School’s MSc programs.
Excelia Tourism School MS Admissions
Excelia Tourism School holds prestigious international certifications UNWTO-TedQual, CFET, and RNCP Level 7, and offers advanced MSc programmes in tourism, hospitality, and destination management. With campuses in La Rochelle, Tours, and Paris, Excelia provides a diverse and supportive environment for students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality.
Here's what you need to know about applying to Excelia Tourism School’s MSc programs:
Admission is open year-round for the September intake.
Excelia Tourism School
MSc in International Tourism & Destination Management
Rolling admissions;
A deposit is due within 6 days of the interview.
Programmes start in January or September with continuous application review.
Excelia Tourism School
MSc in Destination Development Strategies through Tourism
Rolling admissions;
A deposit is due within 6 days of the interview.
Intake in September (and January for select tracks).
Excelia Tourism School
MSc in Tourism Projects & Innovation (including Social Responsibility & Inclusion)
Rolling admissions;
A deposit is due within 6 days of the interview.
Continuous application timeline with September intake.
Before you apply, make sure you’re familiar with the key admission requirements for Excelia Tourism School’s MS programs to ensure a smooth application process.
MSc Admission Requirements - Excelia Tourism School
Excelia Tourism School’s MSc programs are designed for both recent graduates and seasoned professionals, with demanding entry standards ensuring academic excellence, strong language proficiency, and clear motivation.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the MSc Admission requirements:
Requirement
Details
Academic Qualification
Minimum of 4 years of higher education post–high school for Year 1 entry (Master 1), or 5 years for Year 2 entry (MSc completion).
Motivation Interview
25–30 minute online video interview in French or English, assessing your professional objectives and fit within the tourism industry.
Application Documents
CV, academic transcripts or certificates, and cover letter; Bachelor's/Master's applicants: include proof of your academic studies.
Language Proficiency Levels for English
Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores for:
A personal statement outlining your motivation, professional vision, and alignment with the program’s objectives
Writing Proficiency
Demonstrated through previous coursework (grade B or above), professional exams, or writing-intensive experiences.
Conditional Admission
Offered if language certificates or final academic documents are pending, full acceptance is granted once all are submitted.
To support your academic goals and ease financial planning, Excelia Tourism School offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for MS applicants like you.
MS Scholarships
Excelia Tourism School provides a range of scholarships and funding opportunities designed to support high-achieving and deserving students, making its internationally recognized MSc programs more accessible and affordable. These fully funded scholarships in France enable students to acquire practical, industry-relevant knowledge that advances their careers and professional development.
If you're exploring postgraduate options beyond MSc programs, here's how you can apply to Excelia Tourism School’s other specialized PG courses.
Excelia Tourism School: Other Postgraduate (PG) Courses Admission
Excelia’s Bachelor’s admissions require a high school diploma, completion of a €50 (INR 4.5K) application fee, a 20–25 minute online motivation interview, and CEFR B2 proof in English or French.
Applicants from over 80 nationalities enhance Excelia’s international campus culture. You can apply for an MSc in International Hospitality.
Below are the key deadlines and details for popular PG courses offered by the Tourism School:
Program (Courses Included)
Application Dates & Deadlines
MSc in International Hotel Management (La Rochelle, Paris) – Classic & Work‑study
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days after a successful interview;
intake in September (some tracks also in January)
MSc in Destination Development Strategies through Tourism
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days post-interview;
Intake September (select tracks in January)
MSc in Social Responsibility & Inclusion Strategies (Tours/La Rochelle)
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days post-interview;
September intake
MSc in Transformation & Innovation Strategies for Tourism (Tours)
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days post-interview;
September intake
MSc in New Tourism Product Design Strategies (La Rochelle)
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days post-interview;
September intake
MSc in Event Management & F&B Services (La Rochelle, Paris)
Rolling admissions;
deposit due within 6 days post-interview;
September intake
These PG offerings are tailor-made for future-focused tourism professionals, offering flexible intake timelines and fast-track admissions.
Before you get started with your application, here’s a quick look at the key admission requirements for Excelia Tourism School’s other postgraduate courses.
Other PG Course Admission Requirements
Excelia Tourism School requires most postgraduate applicants to submit their academic transcripts, a currentresume, and a StatementofPurpose that outlines their educational background, career goals, and alignment with the program. Many programs require GMAT or GRE scores to strengthen the application.
The table below demonstrates the criteria in the Excelia Tourism School:
Complete and submit the online application form along with the required supporting documents.
Transcripts
Submit unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions with the application; official transcripts are required after admission.
Statement of Purpose
A personal statement outlining your motivation, academic interests, and professional goals.
Resume/CV
Submit a current resume or CV detailing relevant academic and professional experience.
Additional Documents
Programs such as finance may require supplemental documents, including letters of recommendation, portfolios, or standardised test scores (e.g., GMAT/GRE).
English Proficiency
Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores for:
TOEFL: 72-94
IELTS: 5.5–6.5
TOEIC: 605–780 (L&R)
Duolingo: 60–85 overall score
Conditional Admission
Applicants who do not meet full admission criteria but demonstrate potential may be admitted conditionally.
To help make your postgraduate studies more accessible, Excelia Tourism School offers dedicated scholarships for other PG courses that you may be considering.
Scholarships for Other PG Courses
Excelia Tourism School’s Master of Science (MSc) programs are tailored to empower both recent graduates and seasoned professionals with leadership, innovation, and strategic expertise.
Designed with flexibility in mind, several programs offer work–study formats that integrate practical industry experience (up to 24 months) alongside strong academic training.
The table below lists the scholarship types for Excelia’s other PG programs.
Flywire Charitable Foundation Academic Scholarships
Field-Specific Support
Eligibility: International undergraduate students.
Benefits: Partial tuition support; the exact amount varies.
Excelia Foundation Scholarships
Need-Based & Diversity Support
Eligibility: Students who have completed at least one year at Excelia
Benefits: Financial assistance to support studies and projects aligned with the foundation's mission.
If you're looking to begin your undergraduate journey in a globally recognized tourism school, here’s what you need to know about applying to Excelia Tourism School’s Bachelor's programs.
Excelia Tourism School Bachelor's Admissions
96% of Excelia graduates secure employment within six months, supported by individual mentoring, career coaching, and an extensive alum network spanning 150 countries.
Before exploring the admission requirements, let's look at the advantages of studying at Excelia Tourism School:
Advantages of pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at Excelia Tourism School?
Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree at Excelia Tourism School offers a unique gateway into one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, with tourism contributing over 10% to global GDP. Excelia combines academic with practical experience in the education system in France, preparing students to succeed in diverse, international environments.
Excelia Tourism School offers a comprehensive, globally-oriented undergraduate experience with substantial international exposure and career planning:
Cultural environment: Across its campuses in La Rochelle, Tours, and Paris, Excelia hosts over 5,500 students, with more than 25% international, representing over 80 nationalities.
Strong global partnerships: Benefit from Excelia’s network of 230 partner universities, including exchange semesters, double degrees, and preparatory internships, enhancing your communication skills and employability.
High graduate employability: Bachelor students gain significant industry experience, from a 3-month internship in Year 1 to up to 12 months overall, and graduate with strong job readiness, even for part time jobs in France.
Prestigious accreditation: As the first French institution to hold UNWTO-TedQual certification for tourism, alongside the CEFDG “Visa” label (Bachelor) and RNCP Level 6, Excelia guarantees a quality education valued worldwide.
Bilingual & English-taught programs: The Bachelor's program offers both French-English mixed and 100%-English tracks, with mandatory second and third languages, thereby enhancing cross-cultural communication and adaptability.
Top-ranking program: The Bachelor in Tourism & Hospitality Management is ranked among France’s best, 7th in Eduniversal's latest evaluation.
After reviewing these benefits, let’s move on to examine the admission requirements for the Bachelor’s programme.
Bachelor's Admission Requirements
Excelia Tourism School’s Bachelor’s admissions mirror the structured process of its Business School counterpart.
You’ll need a high school diploma, complete a €50 (INR 4.5K) online application, and upload your CV along with proof of academic standing. After that, you’ll participate in a 20–25 minute online motivation interview, and must demonstrate CEFR B2 proficiency in English or French.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the key requirements for Excelia Tourism School admission that also helps in avoiding rejections for student visas:
Requirement
Details
High school diploma
Completion of secondary education (e.g. French Baccalauréat or equivalent)
Online application + fee
Submit the form via the Excelia portal and pay the €50 (INR 4.5K) application fee
CV & supporting documents
Include CV and proof of academic level (transcripts or certificate)
Online motivation interview
20–25 minute video interview to assess motivation and program fit
Language proficiency
CEFR B2 in English or French, unless the degree was studied in that language
Conditional acceptance
Offers may be conditional if the final diploma or language certificate is pending.
Next, here are some of the major scholarships you can apply for at Excelia Tourism School.
Bachelor's Scholarships at Excelia Tourism School
One of the top reasons to study in France is that Excelia offers a scholarship programme that supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students. In 2025 alone, over 90% of incoming students received financial aid, ranging from early-enrollment discounts to merit-based awards and national–level grants like Erasmus+ and Eiffel Scholarships.
Below is a breakdown of key Bachelor-level scholarships at Excelia:
Scholarship Name
Type of Scholarship
Details
Early Enrolment Scholarship
Application-based Discount
Eligibility: Complete full application, interview & deposit by 31 May 2025 (Closed)
Benefits: 5% discount on first-year tuition
Merit-based Scholarship
Academic Excellence Award
Eligibility: Strong academic record, extracurriculars & clear professional goals
Benefits: Partial tuition waiver (amount varies by profile)
Flywire Charitable Foundation Scholarship
Field-specific Grant
Eligibility: Undergraduate students in Tourism, Sustainable Development, or Intercultural Relations
Benefits: Partial tuition scholarship
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
National-Level Fellowship
Eligibility: Outstanding international postgraduates (also relevant for integrated Bachelor-to-Master tracks)
Benefits: Monthly stipend + housing & allowances
Erasmus+ Mobility Grant
Mobility Assistance
Eligibility: Students taking part in European exchange/study or internship programmes.
Once you gain admission, knowing about the extensive support services available to students is essential. Here's a closer look at how Excelia Tourism School ensures all students succeed during their stay.
Excelia Tourism School: Student Support Services
Excelia Tourism School is committed to providing comprehensive support to student life in France. It ensures a transition and an enriching experience throughout their academic journey. It offers clubs & associations (50+ options) with opportunities for cultural, sports, and humanitarian engagement to build leadership and soft skills.
Here's an overview of the key services available:
Multilingual Student Life Team: Assists with visas, residence permits, accommodation, banking, and settling into French life.
Buddy Programme: Offers peer support from experienced students during the pre-arrival and induction phase.
International Admissions Office & Local Representatives: Provides guidance on applications, visa processes, and enrollment via local agents worldwide.
Pre-Arrival and Orientation Events: This includes webinars, on-campus guidance, and intercultural workshops to help students integrate smoothly.
Multiservice Fee Package: Grants access to career services, medical/psychological support, reprographics, library, insurance, and e-learning resources.
IT & Academic Support Services: Provides onsite tech assistance, team-based programme support, and flexibility for course or campus issues.
Career and Talent Centre: Assists with resume building, mock interviews, job fairs, and exclusive internship/job listings.
Once you gain admission, knowing about the extensive support services available to students is essential. Excelia Tourism School ensures all students succeed during their stay.
FAQs
How competitive is the admission process at Excelia Tourism School?
The admission process is moderately competitive, drawing candidates globally. With over 5,000 students from 80+ nationalities across Excelia, the school seeks academic strength, global mindset, and motivation. Selection involves a review of documents and an online interview focusing on fit with Excelia’s values.
Does Excelia Tourism School value volunteer experience in the tourism sector?
Absolutely. Volunteer work in tourism or hospitality is appreciated as it aligns with Excelia’s experiential learning model. With practical exposure making up 30% of the curriculum, such experience showcases your initiative and real-world understanding, strengthening your profile.
What kind of motivation letter stands out for Excelia admissions?
A standout letter clearly reflects your passion for sustainable and responsible tourism, a core focus at Excelia. Citing your goals, prior exposure, and alignment with Excelia’s CSR-driven projects and international learning ethos can demonstrate a strong fit with the program.
Can I apply to Excelia Tourism School without a background in hospitality?
Yes. Excelia encourages diverse academic backgrounds. Students with degrees in languages, business, or even social sciences are welcome, provided they show interest in tourism. Programs like the BBA in Tourism & Hospitality Management are designed to equip all learners from the ground up.
Does Excelia offer conditional admission for students awaiting final results?
Yes. Conditional offers are extended to students awaiting graduation or language test results. Applicants must submit all pending documents before the semester begins. This process helps international candidates align their academic timelines with Excelia’s rolling intake system.
Are group activities or leadership roles taken into consideration during the Excelia admissions process?
Yes. Involvement in clubs, NGOs, or leadership roles is highly valued. Excelia promotes a collaborative environment with student clubs and cross-cultural projects, so candidates who exhibit teamwork and initiative are seen as strong contributors to campus life.
How does Excelia assess soft skills during its tourism school selection?
Soft skills are assessed during the motivation interview. Interviewers evaluate traits like communication, cross-cultural sensitivity, and adaptability—skills vital in Excelia’s multicultural cohorts and international internships. They seek emotionally intelligent students ready for global challenges.
Can I reapply if my application to Excelia Tourism School is not accepted?
Yes. Reapplication is possible, and many students succeed in their second attempt. Strengthening your portfolio, gaining relevant tourism experience, or improving your motivation letter can help. You can also apply for a different intake as Excelia follows a flexible annual intake structure.
What role do recommendation letters play in Excelia’s tourism school selection?
Though not mandatory, recommendation letters add credibility. They’re particularly helpful for students with limited work experience. A strong letter from a professor or internship supervisor supports your candidacy and complements Excelia’s competency-based evaluation process.
Are there any fast-track admission options at Excelia Tourism School?
While there’s no formal fast-track, Excelia’s rolling admissions offer flexibility. Applications are reviewed year-round, allowing quicker decisions. In urgent cases—such as visa timelines—you can directly reach out to admissions for personalized processing support.
Is a study-abroad or exchange experience valued in Excelia’s tourism program admissions?
Yes. Having international experience aligns perfectly with Excelia’s values. With 130+ global academic partners and mandatory international internships, your prior exposure to cross-cultural environments showcases adaptability and strengthens your global readiness for Excelia’s tourism programs.
Excelia Tourism School Admissions 2025: Process, Requirements & Deadlines
Disclaimer
All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.