Both HEC Paris and London Business School (LBS) are globally renowned for their world-class business education, but choosing between them depends on your career goals and preferences. If you’re looking for unparalleled access to European job markets and a focus on luxury brand management, HEC Paris is the go-to option. On the other hand, LBS is ideal for those seeking a vibrant multicultural network and proximity to the financial hub of London.
Which one is best for you? (HEC vs LBS)
When considering HEC vs LBS for your MiM, it’s crucial to understand the broader benefits of this degree. Let’s break down the key reasons to pursue a Masters in Management with a comparative look at these top institutions:
| Aspect | HEC Paris MiM | LBS MiM |
|---|---|---|
| Program Duration | 10 months | 12-16 months |
| Class Size (2022 intake) | 340 students | 180 students |
| International Students | 70% | 92% |
| Average Work Experience | 6 months | 1 years |
| Employment Rate | 93% within 3 months | 96% within 4 months |
| Average Salary Increase | 102% | 85% |
| QS World University Ranking 2023 | #1 | #3 |
| Skill Development | – Advanced analytics – Strategic thinking – Leadership – Cross-cultural communication | – Problem-solving – Decision-making – Team management – Global business acumen |
| Global Career Opportunities | 39% work outside home country | 98% international mobility rate |
| Alumni Network | 68,000+ across 150 countries | 45,000+ in 155 countries |
This comprehensive table provides a side-by-side comparison of HEC vs LBS, highlighting the key factors that make these programs attractive to aspiring global business leaders. Both institutions offer exceptional opportunities for skill development, international careers, and extensive networking, making the HEC vs LBS decision a challenging but exciting one for prospective students.
HEC Paris MiM vs LBS MiM: An Overview
HEC Paris:
HEC Paris, founded in 1881, is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious business schools, renowned for its excellence in management education. Located in Jouy-en-Josas, just 17 km southwest of Paris, the school offers a serene yet dynamic campus environment ideal for academic and professional growth.
The HEC Paris MiM (Master in Management) program is an 18-month intensive course designed to equip students with strategic leadership, analytical skills, and global business insights. Known for its flexibility, the program allows students to customize their academic journey through a combination of core courses, electives, and international exchange opportunities. The HEC Paris MiM cohort is impressively diverse, with 42% international students representing over 50 nationalities. The program also maintains a high standard of academic excellence, evidenced by a median GMAT score of 700 and a class composition of 47% women.
Ranked #1 in the Financial Times Global MiM Rankings 2023, the HEC Paris MiM program stands out for its exceptional career outcomes. Graduates enjoy an average salary of €121,000 just three years after graduation, and the program boasts an outstanding 100% employment rate within three months of completion. Additionally, HEC Paris is celebrated for its extensive alumni network, comprising over 80,000 members worldwide, and strong ties with top global recruiters like McKinsey, BCG, and Goldman Sachs.
With its rigorous academic framework, focus on leadership development, and a strong global network, the HEC Paris MiM remains a top choice for aspiring business leaders seeking a transformative educational experience.
London Business School (LBS):
London Business School (LBS), founded in 1964, is one of the world’s most prestigious business schools, strategically located in the heart of London. Known for its academic excellence and industry relevance, the LBS MiM (Masters in Management) program stands out as a top choice for aspiring global leaders.
The LBS MiM is a 12-16 month program designed to offer students both flexibility and depth in their academic journey. With options for extended internships and specialization tracks, the program equips students with the skills needed to excel in diverse industries. The LBS MiM program prides itself on its intimate class size of 180 students, fostering close collaboration and personalized learning experiences. Notably, 92% of the class comprises international students, creating a vibrant and culturally diverse learning environment.
Ranked #3 in the Financial Times Global MiM Rankings 2023, the LBS MiM continues to deliver exceptional outcomes for its graduates. The program’s location in London, one of the world’s most influential financial and business hubs, provides unparalleled networking opportunities and direct access to global organizations like McKinsey, Google, and Goldman Sachs.
Beyond academics, the LBS MiM emphasizes leadership development, global exposure, and practical learning through real-world business projects and case studies. Combined with an extensive alumni network spanning over 45,000 professionals across 155 countries, the LBS MiM offers students a launchpad for impactful careers in global business.
Benefits of a MiM from HEC or LBS
When comparing HEC vs LBS for their Master’s in Management programs, it’s essential to understand the specific benefits each institution offers. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the advantages of pursuing a MiM at these top-ranked schools:
| Benefit | HEC Paris MiM | LBS MiM |
|---|---|---|
| Program Ranking (FT 2023) | #2 | #3 |
| Career Advancement | 92% change sector post-graduation | 89% change sector post-graduation |
| Salary Impact | Average salary of €68,991 | Average salary of £54,798 |
| ROI (5 years post-graduation) | 118% | 97% |
| Internship Opportunities | 88% complete an internship | 93% complete an internship |
| International Experience | 98% gain international exposure | 100% gain international exposure |
| Gender Diversity | 49% female students | 45% female students |
| Career Services Effectiveness | 4.7/5 student satisfaction | 4.6/5 student satisfaction |
| Faculty with Doctorates | 100% | 100% |
| Languages Offered | 5 (including French) | 3 (including Mandarin) |
| Corporate Partnerships | 300+ company partners | 150+ recruiters on campus |
This detailed comparison of HEC vs LBS highlights the unique strengths of each program. Both institutions offer exceptional benefits in terms of career advancement, salary impact, and international exposure. When choosing between HEC Paris MiM vs LBS MiM, consider which specific benefits align best with your career goals and personal preferences. Both programs offer world-class education and networking opportunities, but the nuances in their offerings could make one a better fit for your individual needs.
Curriculum Comparison of HEC Paris MiM & LBS MiM
| Aspect | HEC Paris MiM | LBS MiM |
|---|---|---|
| Program Duration | 10 months (2 gap months for internships) | 12-16 months |
| Core Courses | 14 core courses | 11 core courses |
| Specializations | 8 specializations offered | 7 concentrations available |
| Practical Experience | 4-6 month internship | 3-6 month internship or project |
| Teaching Style | Case method (30%), Lectures (40%), Group work (30%) | Case method (35%), Lectures (35%), Projects (30%) |
| Class Size | 340 students | 180 students |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 7:1 |
| International Study Trips | 2 mandatory trips | 1 mandatory Global Immersion Field Trip |
| Language Requirements | 3 languages required for graduation | No language requirement |
| Dual Degree Options | Available with 29 partner schools | Available with 4 partner schools |
| Research Centers | 5 research centers | 7 research centers |
| Faculty Publications (2022) | 156 in top journals | 178 in top journals |
| Average Teaching Experience | 15 years | 18 years |
| Experiential Learning | 70% of curriculum | 65% of curriculum |
| Corporate Partnerships | 300+ | 150+ |
| Career Treks | 8 international career treks | 6 international career treks |
This detailed comparison of HEC vs LBS MiM programs highlights the academic rigor and diverse learning opportunities at both institutions. HEC Paris offers a more compact program with a wider range of specializations and dual degree options. On the other hand, LBS provides a slightly longer program duration with a strong focus on practical experience and research. Both HEC Paris MiM and LBS MiM emphasize experiential learning and international exposure, but HEC has a unique language requirement that could be beneficial for students aiming for truly global careers. The choice between HEC Paris vs LBS ultimately depends on your specific career goals, preferred learning style, and desired program duration.
Admission Criteria and Process
| Criteria | HEC Paris MiM | LBS MiM |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Bachelor’s degree in any field | Bachelor’s degree (min. 2:1 UK or equivalent) |
| Average GPA | 3.7 (on a 4.0 scale) | 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) |
| GMAT | Average: 690 | Average: 687 |
| GRE | Average: 320 | Average: 160 (verbal), 164 (quant) |
| Work Experience | Average: 6 months | Average: 2 years |
| Recommendation Letters | 2 required | 1 required |
| Essays | 2 essays | 1 essay + 1 video assessment |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL: 100 / IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL: 100 / IELTS: 7.0 |
| Application Rounds | 4 rounds | 4 rounds |
| Application Fee | €200 | £120 |
| Interviews | By invitation only | By invitation only |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 13% | Approximately 14% |
This table provides a comprehensive comparison of the admission criteria for HEC Paris MiM vs LBS MiM. While both programs have similar academic requirements, LBS tends to prefer candidates with more work experience. HEC Paris requires an additional recommendation letter and essay, while LBS includes a video assessment in its application process.
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HEC Paris MiM vs LBS MiM: Financing & Scholarships
When comparing the HEC Paris MiM and LBS MiM programs, it’s essential to consider the financial commitments and available support at each institution. For the 2025/2026 academic year, the HEC Paris MiM program’s tuition fees total €55,800, with additional student service and administrative fees of €1,950 and €950, respectively, bringing the total to €58,700. Living expenses are estimated at approximately €1,000 per month, covering housing, food, insurance, and leisure activities.
In contrast, the LBS MiM program for the 2025 intake has tuition fees set at £49,950. Students must also pay a Student Association Fee of £190, facilitating participation in various community activities. Living expenses in London are estimated between £15,000 and £20,000 per year, depending on lifestyle choices.
Both institutions offer a range of financial aid options to support students. HEC Paris provides scholarships such as the HEC Foundation Excellence Scholarship, which offers varying amounts based on merit and need. Additionally, the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship is available for top international students. For financing, HEC Paris has partnerships with organizations like Brain Capital, offering loan options to international students.
Similarly, London Business School offers merit-based scholarships, including the Laidlaw Women’s Leadership Fund, which provides full-fee scholarships to outstanding female candidates. LBS also collaborates with loan providers such as Prodigy Finance and Lendwise, offering financial solutions to both domestic and international students.
When evaluating the HEC Paris MiM versus the LBS MiM, it’s crucial to assess not only the tuition fees and living costs but also the financial aid opportunities and the overall return on investment each program offers.
Post-Graduation Work Visa Options
| Aspect | HEC Paris (France) | LBS (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Name | Talent Passport | Graduate Route |
| Duration | Up to 4 years | 2 years |
| Eligibility | Master’s degree from a French institution | Completed degree at a UK institution |
| Application Timing | Within 3 months after graduation | Before current student visa expires |
| Job Offer Requirement | Not required to apply | Not required to apply |
| Spouse/Partner Rights | Can join and work full-time | Can join and work full-time |
| Extension Possibilities | Can be renewed | Can switch to Skilled Worker visa |
| Minimum Salary Requirement | None for initial application | None for initial application |
| Language Requirement | Basic French proficiency recommended | No additional language requirement |
| Processing Time | About 2-3 months | Usually within 3 weeks |
| Application Fee | €225 | £715 |
| Healthcare Surcharge | Not applicable | £624 per year |
| Quota | No quota | No quota |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Can count towards permanent residency | Does not count directly, but can lead to other visas that do |
When comparing HEC vs LBS, the post-graduation work visa options are an important consideration. France’s Talent Passport, available to HEC Paris graduates, offers a longer initial stay of up to 4 years compared to the UK’s 2-year Graduate Route for LBS graduates. The HEC Paris MiM vs LBS MiM comparison in terms of post-study work rights shows that both countries are welcoming to international talent, with relatively straightforward processes to obtain work authorization after graduation. The choice between the two may depend on your long-term career plans and the specific industry or region you’re targeting for employment.
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Conclusion
Choosing between HEC vs LBS for your Master’s in Management is challenging, as both offer excellent education and career prospects. HEC Paris MiM features a shorter program and larger class size, while LBS MiM boasts a prime London location and longer internship options. Consider your personal goals, preferred learning style, and desired work location when deciding. Factors like program length, cost, curriculum, and job placement rates are crucial. Both HEC and LBS have stellar reputations, so focus on which program aligns best with your career aspirations. Whichever you choose, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful global business career.
