HEC vs. LBS: Which One is Better?
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.
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.
HEC vs LBS: An Overview
HEC Paris:
HEC Paris, founded in 1881, is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious business schools. Located in Jouy-en-Josas, 17 km southwest of Paris, it offers a picturesque campus setting. The Grande École Master in Management program at HEC Paris runs for 10 months, including two gap months for internships. It hosts a large and diverse class of 340 students, with 70% being international. HEC Paris consistently ranks at the top of global MiM rankings, securing the #2 spot in the Financial Times Global MiM Ranking 2023. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, strong focus on leadership development, and extensive alumni network.
London Business School (LBS):
London Business School, established in 1964, is a world-renowned institution located in the heart of London. The LBS Masters in Management program runs for 12-16 months, offering students more time for internships and specialization. LBS has a smaller, more intimate class size of 180 students, with an impressive 92% international student body. This diversity creates a truly global learning environment. LBS ranks #3 in the Financial Times Global MiM Ranking 2023, reflecting its academic excellence and strong industry connections. The school leverages its London location to provide students with unique networking opportunities and exposure to various industries.
Academic Excellence and Curriculum Comparison
| 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.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid Options
When comparing HEC vs LBS for their MiM programs, understanding the financial aspects is crucial. Let’s break down the tuition fees and financial aid options for both institutions:
HEC Paris MiM:
- Tuition fee: €36,500 (2023-2024)
- Living expenses (estimated): €12,000 – €15,000 per year
LBS MiM:
- Tuition fee: £37,500 (2023-2024)
- Living expenses (estimated): £15,000 – £20,000 per year
Financial Aid Options:
Both HEC and LBS offer various financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their MiM programs:
- HEC Paris offers over 50 scholarships, covering 10% to 50% of tuition fees
- LBS provides merit-based scholarships ranging from £5,000 to full tuition
Loans:
- HEC partners with Brain Capital for international student loans
- LBS collaborates with Prodigy Finance for international student loans
Work-study programs:
- Both schools offer part-time work opportunities on campus
External funding:
- Students can apply for external scholarships and grants
When weighing HEC vs LBS, consider that while the tuition fees are similar, living expenses in London tend to be higher than in the Paris region.
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.
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.
