Admissions

For the 2023 September intake, we look for high potential candidates to join our research ecosystem and work with over 50 international fellow students and more than 100 research faculty.

Built on a strategy of excellence, the HEC Paris PhD Program, known for its small size, aims to attract outstanding and motivated future PhD students with a clear ambition to become top researchers in international academic institutions. 

One application - two options

A specific research topic is not required at this stage. However, you are required to choose one specialization area amongst the eight areas. You may be interested by two specializations and therefore, we offer you the possibility to add a second choice on your application. The second choice will be handled only if the first choice is unsuccessful. 

Applicant profile

We welcome applications from candidates of all nationalities who

• hold a university degree (Bachelor or Master) or equivalent in any field (sciences, engineering, political science, etc). Note that the PhD in Law and Regulation requires university studies in the field of legal studies
• are fluent in English
• have an outstanding academic record
• are highly motivated to study at one of the world's best research business schools.

Previous professional experience is not a requirement but may be a plus depending on the specialization.

by using the online platform, which you can reach by clicking on the 'Apply' button at the top of the this page. Note that we do not accept any application or document sent by email or by post. 

The selection is a 2 phase process:

1. Evaluation of applications and selection of shortlisted applicants. The shortlist is published approximately 2 - 3 weeks after the application deadline.
2. Interview of shortlisted applicants (in-person or online). Admission results are published within 5 - 6 weeks after the application deadline.

A complete application should include the following:

• Degree certificate(s) or current enrollment certificate
• All official academic transcripts obtained in a higher education institution (Bachelor and Master if applicable) 
• Personal statement motivating your choice of pursuing a PhD (SoP)
• Résumé (CV)
• Optional Research material that may support your application (dissertation, paper, research work, ...)
• GMAT or GRE official test score report * 
• TOEFL or IELTS or Cambridge test score report**
• 2 completed online reference forms from professors
• Proof of ID
• Non-refundable application fee of €60.

* Business studies and professional experience cannot waive the management test requirement.
Special Exemption: HEC Paris and IPP applicants currently enrolled in a pre-experience program, may apply for a special exemption from the management test. To apply for exemption, please send your CV and academic transcripts to the PhD Office at least 4 weeks before the chosen application deadline. Note that the exemption is not automatic but conditional on approval by the PhD Program Director based on the excellence of the grade transcript.

Please use the below HEC Paris codes to order your score report(s):
GMAT: 0TL-6C-99
GRE: 0795
TOEFL: 3306

** English test exemption is granted to:

• Native English speakers: A proof must be uploaded in your application
• Applicants who studied a university degree of minimum two years in English may apply for exemption. Please submit your résumé (CV )and a proof of English taught university studies (certificate, transcript, ...) to the PhD Office.

PhD in Law and Regulation

Specific information and additional requirements:

• Applicants must choose their track (3 year track or 5 year track) according to their academic background (see here for more information
• Applicants benefit from a Management Test score exemption 
• 3 year track: This track is open to applicants holding a master degree in Law. An additional short proposal on the envisaged PhD project or area (max 3 pages) is required.