In summary: emlyon’s application process differs by program. Global BBA is done via Parcoursup/SESAME or international direct admission. PGE offers three pathways: Concours BCE (prep classes), AST (Bachelor+3/4/5), and international admission SAI. MSc requires online application with transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and tests. MBA requires 3+ years of professional experience. Check the emlyon admission guide for an overview and score requirements to calibrate your profile.
Global BBA Application at emlyon
emlyon’s Global BBA is a 4-year program taught in English. Two application pathways exist depending on your nationality and academic background.
Parcoursup and SESAME Exam Pathway (French Candidates)
French candidates in their final year of secondary school or holding a baccalauréat apply via the Parcoursup platform. The SESAME exam assesses analytical, linguistic, and logical reasoning skills. Registration on Parcoursup opens in January with application submission until March. SESAME exams typically take place in April. Results and admission offers arrive in June via Parcoursup. Excellence scholarships are awarded to top baccalauréat performers.
International Direct Admission
International candidates follow a direct admission process including an online application with high school transcripts, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent), an online admission test assessing aptitudes, and evaluation by the admission committee. A minimum IB score of 27 is recommended. A 10% tuition reduction is offered to international candidates applying in the first session. Annual Global BBA tuition is €15,100.
Grande École Program (PGE) Application
emlyon’s PGE, ranked 12th globally (FT 2025), offers three distinct admission pathways with approximately 890 total positions. The choice of pathway depends on your academic background and nationality.
Pathway 1: Concours BCE (Prep Classes)
Students from CPGE (prep classes) take the Concours BCE, the primary admission pathway with approximately 525 positions. Written exams take place in spring, followed by oral exams for those admitted. Exam results are valid only for the year of admission. This pathway represents the majority of PGE admissions and remains the most competitive.
Pathway 2: AST Admission on Titles (Bachelor+3/4/5)
Admission on Titles (AST) targets holders of Bachelor’s degrees or higher (minimum 180 ECTS). Approximately 365 positions are offered annually. Candidates must submit a GMAT score (valid 5 years), GRE, or TAGE MAGE (valid 2 years), an English test (minimum TOEIC 850 or TOEFL above 100), official transcripts, and a detailed CV. The selection process includes digital assessments (cognitive tests and professional simulations) followed by jury evaluation. Applications open December 9, 2025 through March 10, 2026.
Pathway 3: International Direct Admission (SAI)
International direct admission via SAI is open to candidates worldwide. Application fee is €140. Applications open October 2025 through June 2026 on a rolling basis, subject to seat availability. Required documents include transcripts, a GMAT/GRE or TAGE MAGE score, an English test, CV, and motivation letters. Interviews are conducted in timed video format with 15 seconds reading time per question. It is strongly recommended to apply early as seats fill quickly.
MSc and Specialized Masters Application
Applications for emlyon’s MSc programs are submitted directly online through the school website. Entry to year one requires a bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS), while entry to year two requires a Bachelor+4 (240 ECTS) or validated Master 1.
Required Documents for MSc
MSc applications require official academic transcripts, a detailed CV, a tailored motivation letter for the chosen program, recommendation letters (strongly encouraged), a management test score (GMAT, GRE, or TAGE MAGE—strongly recommended), an English test (TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, or Duolingo), and a valid passport (required for mandatory international mobility). All documents must be in English or officially translated.
MSc Selection Process
After submission, candidates complete digital assessments including cognitive tests, multiple-choice questionnaires, and professional simulations. Some programs include video or written responses. The admission jury evaluates the full application and test results. Response timelines vary by program and application period.
MBA and Executive MBA Application
The International MBA (11 months) requires a bachelor’s degree in any field and minimum 3 years of professional experience. The application includes transcripts, a one-page CV, essays on career objectives, a recommendation letter from a manager or academic mentor, and a GMAT/GRE score (or emlyon’s internal test). Pre-selected candidates complete an interview assessing communication, career clarity, and cultural fit.
The Executive MBA targets experienced professionals (minimum 7 years) with a Bachelor+4 or validation of prior learning (VAP). The application includes two recommendation letters and video presentations. The selection interview (30-45 minutes) is conducted by a panel comprising a professor and program alumnus.
Application Timeline 2025–2026
| Key Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Parcoursup Opens (BBA) | January 2026 |
| SESAME Exams (BBA) | April 2026 |
| AST Applications (PGE) | December 9, 2025 – March 10, 2026 |
| Concours BCE (Prep Classes) | Spring 2026 |
| International SAI Admission (PGE) | October 2025 – June 2026 (rolling) |
| MSc Applications | Open year-round (rolling) |
| MBA/EMBA Applications | Open year-round (rolling) |
Strategic Advice for Your Application
Begin GMAT/TAGE MAGE preparation at least 4 months before the deadline to maximize your score. For PGE via AST, apply when applications open in December. For international admission, submit your application as early as possible as seats fill on a rolling basis. Prepare for interviews by clearly structuring your 5-year career goal and demonstrating knowledge of emlyon. Recommendation letters from academics or direct managers carry significant weight. Check our emlyon score requirements to calibrate your test preparation targets.
How Your Dream School Can Help
Our specialists guide you through every step of the emlyon application process. We help you prepare for the GMAT and TAGE MAGE, write your motivation essays, and prepare for interviews. Contact us for a free profile evaluation or discover our admissions coaching program.