In a nutshell: For direct admissions (AST) to ESSEC, aim for a TAGE MAGE of 380+ (admitted median ~400), a GMAT of 660+, or a GRE of 320+. For English tests: TOEFL 95+, TOEIC 900+, IELTS 6.5+ or Cambridge C1 176+. For the post-prépa competitive exam (BCE), the 2024 admissibility cutoff was 13.88/20 (~951 shortlisted candidates). See our ESSEC admission guide for an overview and our application guide for the process steps.
Score requirements for direct admissions (AST)
Direct admissions to ESSEC require submission of an aptitude test and an English test. ESSEC does not publish official minimum scores, but feedback from admitted candidates provides reliable score ranges. The school evaluates your application holistically: a high score can compensate for a weaker element in your profile, and vice versa.
TAGE MAGE scores for ESSEC
The TAGE MAGE is the most widely used aptitude test by French-speaking candidates. Scored out of 600 points, it comprises 6 subtests evaluating logical, verbal, and quantitative reasoning. ESSEC is the second most demanding French school for this test, just behind HEC Paris.
| Level | TAGE MAGE Score | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive minimum | 350 | Possible with an exceptional profile |
| Recommended | 380-400 | Good level for ESSEC |
| Admitted median | ~400 | Typical score of admitted candidates |
| Excellent | 430+ | Significant advantage in evaluation |
GMAT scores for ESSEC
The GMAT is the international alternative to the TAGE MAGE. The GMAT Focus Edition (since 2023) is scored out of 805 points. It is particularly suited for international candidates or those also targeting programs abroad.
| Level | GMAT Score | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive minimum | 620 | Possible with strong profile otherwise |
| Recommended | 650-670 | Good level, strong application needed |
| Admitted median | ~660 | Typical score of admitted candidates |
| Excellent | 700+ | Significant advantage in evaluation |
GRE scores for ESSEC
The GRE is an accepted alternative, especially for candidates from non-business backgrounds. The total score (Verbal + Quantitative) is evaluated out of 340 points.
| Level | GRE Score (V+Q) | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive minimum | 310 | Possible with strong profile |
| Recommended | 320+ | Good level for ESSEC |
| Excellent | 325+ | Significant advantage |
English test scores required for ESSEC
An official English test is mandatory for direct admissions. Results are valid for 2 years. Strong English proficiency is essential as the motivation interview is conducted entirely in English and a significant portion of the Grande École Programme courses are taught in English.
| Test | Minimum score | Recommended score | Excellent score |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 95 | 100+ | 110+ |
| TOEIC | 850 | 900+ | 950+ |
| IELTS | 6.5 | 7.0+ | 7.5+ |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 176 | 185+ | 195+ |
Post-prépa competitive exam scores (BCE)
For the post-prépa pathway, results depend on the BCE competitive exam. ESSEC is the second most selective school after HEC Paris, with one of the highest admissibility cutoffs. In 2024, this cutoff was 13.88/20 with approximately 951 shortlisted candidates. The school admits about 80% of its shortlisted candidates. The most decisive subjects are mathematics, general culture, and modern languages.
| Data point | 2024 value |
|---|---|
| Admissibility cutoff | 13.88/20 |
| Number of shortlisted candidates | ~951 |
| Available spots (prépa) | ~430 |
| Admission rate of shortlisted | ~80% |
Tips to optimize your scores
Start your TAGE MAGE or GMAT preparation at least 3 months before your target round. For the TAGE MAGE, practice with official past exams and master the 6-subtest format: calculate your scores by subtest to identify areas for improvement. For the GMAT, use official resources and consider a prep course if aiming for 700+. For English tests, schedule your exam at least 6 weeks before the deadline. See our ESSEC application guide for the complete process steps.
How Your Dream School can help
Our specialized consultants guide candidates to ESSEC Business School every year. We help you define your test strategy, optimize your TAGE MAGE/GMAT preparation, and build a competitive application. Contact us for a free profile assessment or discover our admissions coaching program.