Beyond the numbers – why management tests can strengthen your HEC Paris application

Admission to an HEC Paris Master’s program is more than just an academic milestone. It’s the gateway to a transformative journey of personal growth, global opportunities and lifelong connections. But before this journey begins, there is one key aspect of your application that can help our Admissions Team get to know you better and assess your true potential - the management test.

Whether it’s the GMAT, GRE, or TAGE MAGE, management tests serve as an important benchmark in the admissions process. They can reveal how you think, analyze, and solve problems under pressure – key skills that lie at the heart of our Master’s programs. More than just numbers on a page, your test scores can help demonstrate the analytical mindset and intellectual rigor that HEC Paris values in every candidate.

Why management tests matter

At its core, a management test measures your ability to reason with data, think critically, and make smart, informed decisions – essential skills for anyone aspiring to excel in business, finance, consulting, or entrepreneurship. At HEC Paris, these tests help us to understand your quantitative and analytical aptitude as well as how comfortable you are with numbers, logic, and data interpretation.

But that’s only part of the picture. Management tests are also an indicator of your proficiency in English. By performing well in these tests, applicants not only demonstrate their academic readiness but also their ability to communicate and engage effectively in a diverse, global classroom.

We know that test scores by no means tell your whole story, but they do offer a valuable snapshot of your academic potential - and how prepared you are to thrive in the dynamic HEC Paris learning environment.

A holistic approach to admissions

At HEC Paris, no single element determines if a candidate is admitted to one of our programs. We prefer to adopt a holistic approach that looks at the full picture of who you are - your academic background, professional experiences, personal achievements, essays, and reference letters.

Your test score is an important piece of this puzzle - but it’s not the only one. A strong score can reinforce your application, especially when aligned with strong essays and recommendations. However, the Admissions jury is equally attentive to your motivation, leadership potential, and personal drive.

A strong score can make a difference, but at HEC Paris your story profile matters. We look beyond numbers to understand your true potential - your ability to grow, contribute, and make an impact within and beyond the program.

Flexibility and fairness

At HEC Paris we understand that each applicant has different strengths and testing preferences. That is why we accept either GMAT, or GRE or TAGE MAGE for admission into our Master’s programs.

No one test is preferred over another, and there is no minimum score required for admission. This approach ensures fairness and flexibility for candidates from different educational systems and backgrounds.

That said, it is important to stay competitive and the average scores of admitted students can provide helpful benchmarks:

• Around 700 for the GMAT
• 655 for the GMAT Focus Edition
• Around 320 for the GRE

These figures should not be interpreted as cutoffs, but more as references to guide your preparation. For some of our Master’s programs no management test is required, but for the majority it remains a mandatory part of the process - with no exceptions or waivers. 

How to prepare and perform

Success in management tests is not just about innate talent - it’s about preparation, strategy, and persistence. So how can you prepare effectively and optimize your performance?

1. Understand the test format
Each test - GMAT, GRE, or TAGE MAGE - has its own structure, timing, and types of questions. Familiarize yourself early with the format to avoid surprises on test day. Knowing what to expect allows you to focus your energy on solving problems, not decoding instructions.

2. Take a diagnostic test
Before you begin your preparation, take a full-length practice test. This will give you a realistic view of your current level and highlight areas for improvement. You can even try out a free GMAT simulation test via the HEC Paris website.

3. Create a study plan
Consistency is key. Build a clear, realistic study plan that balances test preparation with your other commitments. Focus on weak areas while consolidating strengths. Allocate time for regular practice sessions and review your mistakes to understand not just what you got wrong - but why.

4. Use reliable resources
Quality matters more than quantity. Use official preparation materials, online simulations, or courses offered by certified providers. Peer study groups or online forums can also be great sources of motivation and shared strategies.

5. Manage stress and timing
Performance on test day is as much about mindset as it is about knowledge. Practice under timed conditions and learn techniques to stay calm under pressure. Proper rest, a balanced diet, and regular breaks during study periods can make a big difference.

6. Keep perspective
Finally, remember that your test score is important - but it’s only one element of your application. It should complement your essays, CV, and recommendations, not overshadow them. The goal is balance - demonstrating strong analytical abilities alongside leadership, creativity, and personal motivation.

Turning preparation into opportunity

Preparing for a management test is not just about aiming for a high score - it’s about building skills that will serve you long after the test is over. Through study and practice, you refine your problem-solving abilities, sharpen your time management, and develop discipline - qualities that will not only be invaluable during your studies but throughout your career.

For many candidates, test preparation becomes a journey of self-discovery. It’s a chance to see how you handle challenges, learn from feedback, and grow. A management test will never define who you are - but it can help tell your story. At HEC Paris, we view test results as an opportunity for you to showcase your analytical strengths, your determination, and your readiness to embark on a world-class education.

The admissions journey is about much more than scores - it’s about vision, curiosity, and the drive to make a difference. By preparing diligently you’re not only getting ready for the test - you’re also preparing for the challenges and opportunities that await at HEC Paris and beyond.

Find out more about how to make your Master’s application stand out in our Fast Track to HEC video series.

Find out more about our Master's programs