In a nutshell: Applying to HEC Paris involves a multi-step process depending on your chosen pathway. For parallel admissions (AST2): online registration, GMAT/GRE/TAGE MAGE and English test submission, two recommendations, complete application file, then motivation interview (25-30 min in English). For the HEC-Bocconi Bachelor: application via the Bocconi portal, SAT/ACT or Bocconi test, English proof and video interview. The 5 parallel admission rounds run from October 8, 2025 to May 28, 2026 (fee: €220). See our complete HEC Paris admission guide for an overview.
HEC Paris 2026 application timeline
HEC Paris organizes admissions in successive rounds. Applying early maximizes your chances as more spots are available. Here is the complete timeline for each pathway:
Parallel admissions (AST2) – 5 rounds
| Round | Deadline (6pm Paris time) | Our recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | October 8, 2025 | Ideal if your scores are already ready |
| Round 2 | January 6, 2026 | Best balance of timing and availability |
| Round 3 | February 26, 2026 | Still good chances |
| Round 4 | April 16, 2026 | Limited spots, strong file required |
| Round 5 | May 28, 2026 | Last chance, highly selective |
HEC-Bocconi Bachelor – 3 rounds
| Round | Deadline | Results | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st round | September 26, 2025 | November 12, 2025 | November 26, 2025 |
| 2nd round | January 23, 2026 | Mid-March 2026 | March 26, 2026 |
| 3rd round | April 13, 2026 | Mid-May 2026 | Late May 2026 |
Post-prépa competitive exam (BCE)
Written exams for the BCE competition will take place from April 22-29, 2026. Admissibility results will be published in early June, and oral exams will run from June 22 to July 3, 2026. Registration is through the BCE portal (banque commune d’épreuves).
Application steps: parallel admissions (AST2)
Here are the 6 key steps to build your parallel admission application to HEC Paris:
Step 1: Take an aptitude test
You must obtain a score on the GMAT, GRE, or TAGE MAGE. Results are valid for 5 years. For the GMAT, aim for 700+ to be competitive. For the TAGE MAGE, a score above 400 is recommended. Plan at least 2-3 months of intensive preparation. See our score requirements guide for detailed ranges.
Step 2: Take an English test
An official English test is mandatory. HEC Paris accepts TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, and Cambridge exams. Results are valid for 5 years. Aim for a high score as the interview is conducted entirely in English.
| Test | Recommended minimum score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100+ |
| IELTS | 7.0+ |
| TOEIC | 900+ |
| Cambridge (C1 Advanced) | 185+ |
Step 3: Prepare recommendations
Starting in 2026, HEC Paris requires two recommendations (instead of one). Each recommender fills out an online form — traditional letters are no longer accepted. Choose people who know your academic or professional background well and can attest to your leadership potential.
Step 4: Complete the online application
The application includes your personal information, academic background, professional and extracurricular experiences, a detailed CV, and a motivation essay. Pay special attention to your essay: it should demonstrate your career project, understanding of the program, and what you will bring to the HEC community. The application fee is €220.
Step 5: Motivation interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a 25-30 minute interview conducted entirely in English. The interview assesses your potential, aptitude for an international management career, and motivation. Be prepared to discuss your background, career goals, and why HEC Paris is the right choice for you. Practice with mock interviews.
Step 6: Results and enrollment
Results are communicated a few weeks after each round. If admitted, you must confirm your enrollment within the indicated deadlines and proceed with the tuition deposit payment.
Application steps: HEC-Bocconi Bachelor
For the Bachelor in Data, Society & Organizations, the application follows a different process:
1. Register on the Bocconi portal — Create your account and fill in the online form (free). 2. Standardized test — Submit your SAT, ACT scores or take the Bocconi online test. 3. English proof — TOEFL 88+, IELTS 6.5+, CAE 173+ or CPE 180+. 4. Documents — CV, motivation letter, high school transcripts. 5. Video interview — Video recording assessing your motivation and fit with the program. 6. Results — Notification according to your chosen round’s timeline.
Strategic tips to maximize your chances
Applying early (rounds 1 or 2) offers a significant advantage. Prepare your GMAT/TAGE MAGE tests at least 3 months before your target round. Personalize your essay by showing deep knowledge of the HEC program. Request your recommendations at least 4 weeks before the deadline. Finally, thoroughly prepare your English interview — it is often the deciding factor in your application.
How Your Dream School can help
Our team of specialized consultants has guided dozens of candidates to HEC Paris. We help you choose the best admission pathway, prepare your tests, write compelling essays, obtain effective recommendations, and shine in your interview. Contact us for a free profile assessment or discover our admissions coaching program.