Find answers to common questions about the school, studying, living, and succeeding as an international student at emlyon.

This guide covers essential topics like admissions, academics, visa requirements, accommodation options, living in France, and campus resources.

For further assistance, please reach out to your program advisor or to the international student support team.

campus emlyon

GENERAL

1) Who can study abroad?

Generally, international students who meet certain academic, financial, and visa requirements can study abroad. They need to fulfill academic qualifications, pass required exams like the GMAT/GRE for example (for graduate programs), and demonstrate English proficiency through the TOEFL/IELTS for example. Additionally, students must secure a visa and prove they can cover tuition and living expenses.

To study in France, students must generally:

  • Have a high school diploma or an undergraduate degree (for graduate programs).
  • Provide GMAT/GRE (for MBAs) and TOEFL/IELTS scores. TAGE MAGE, TOEIC and Cambridge tests scores are also accepted for the Master in Innovation, the Master in Finance, and the Master in Management – Grande Ecole programs at emlyon.
  • Apply for a student visa
  • Submit documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement.
  • French business schools may also offer scholarships and have unique admission processes with tests and interviews.
  • During this process, you are generally required to prove your ability to finance your studies abroad (tuition fees and living costs)

At emlyon business school, students can benefit from an exchange program or an international experience that broadens their academic and cultural perspectives, which allows them to live in more than one country (besides France).

2) Who can study in a business school?

Studying in a business school is open to a wide range of students, but eligibility and admissions criteria vary depending on the program and institution. Business schools typically seek candidates with strong academic records, clear goals, and an interest in business, leadership, entrepreneurship, finance or marketing. Whether at the Bachelor's, Master's, or Master of Science (MSc) level, these programs attract individuals with diverse profiles and interests.

3) What are the benefits of studying abroad?

Studying abroad allows you to experience new cultures, learn new languages, and gain a broader understanding of the world. It offers different teaching styles and perspectives, which can enhance your education. Living in another country also helps you develop independence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

At emlyon business school, students can study on multiple campuses, take part in exchange programs, and build a global professional network through the school's international alumni connections and partner companies, opening doors to career opportunities worldwide.

4) Is emlyon business school a well-known school worldwide?

Founded in 1872, emlyon business school is one of the oldest business schools in Europe. It is among the top 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, reflecting its global recognition.

emlyon business school is regularly ranked among the top business schools in national and international rankings. For instance, in the QS World University Ranking 2024 for Business & Management Studies, the school was ranked 4th in France. Additionally, in the Financial Times Masters in Management 2024 rankings, the Master in Management is ranked 8th worldwide and 4th in France.

emlyon business school is also proud to have received a 4.5 rating on EDUopinions, a ranking based on student reviews. In recognition of its commitment to welcoming international students, emlyon business school is among the 28% of French institutions awarded 3 stars as part of the 'Bienvenue en France' label by Campus France for the 2024-2029 period.

5) What subjects can you study at emlyon business school?

emlyon business school offers a diverse range of programs across key fields, including:

  • General Management
  • Business Administration
  • International Business
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Marketing
  • Finance
  • Consulting & Audit
  • Sustainability
  • Data Science
  • Hospitality
  • Luxury
  • Sports, Entertainment and Lifestyle

These programs are tailored to meet current market demands and equip students with the skills needed to tackle modern business challenges.

6) Where is located emlyon business school?

emlyon business school has 4 campuses located around the world:

emlyon business school's main campus is located in Lyon, France, a lively city with a rich culture, good food, and a central location in Europe, making it a great place for students.

The campus' location gives students easy access to the city's culture and good transport options (metro, tram, train, rental bikes, etc.), making it convenient for both local and international students. The new modern campus is built for innovation and collaboration, offering a great learning environment.

emlyon business school also has a campus in Paris, the capital in France, which is close to a major train station, making it easy to reach and well-connected to business areas.

Outside France, emlyon business school has campuses in Shanghai, China, and Mumbai, India, offering more international opportunities for students.

hall emlyon business school

VISA REQUIREMENTS

1) Do I need a student visa to apply, and how do I apply for one?

For international students wishing to study at emlyon business school, visa requirements depend on

  • your nationality
  • the duration of your stay in France

If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union, you will generally need a student visa to study in France. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements with the French embassy or consulate in your country.

To apply for a student visa, you must first obtain an official admission letter from emlyon business school. Then, you will need to follow the visa application process with the French consular authorities, which typically includes submitting documents such as your passport, proof of financial resources, and proof of health insurance. It is advisable to start the process as early as possible, as processing times may vary.

For more detailed information, please refer to the guide available on our website or contact the International Office

2) What happens after I get my visa?

After obtaining your visa, several important steps must be followed. If you have a long-stay visa (type D), it is mandatory to validate it on the ANEF platform within three months of your arrival in France. This validation is essential to legally stay in France. If your visa does not cover the entire duration of your stay, you will also need to apply for a residence permit about four months before your visa expires to ensure continuity of your stay.

These steps are crucial to finalize your integration in France and to ensure your legal status. For more details on these procedures, you can refer to the handy guide provided by the International Office on our website.

HOUSING IN FRANCE

1) What housing options are available for international students?

There are many housing options around emlyon business school's campuses. The school provides a detailed accommodation guide to admitted students, that includes options such as private landlords, student residences, and partnerships with real estate agents. Additionally, emlyon business school collaborates with platforms like Studapart to help students find suitable accommodation near the new Lyon campus.

To make the search easier for housing in France, apps like “Jinka” bring together offers from various rental sites, including “Leboncoin”, “Se Loger” and “Bien'ici”, simplifying the housing search.

Students can also benefit from government housing allowances, such as the CAF (for European students), which helps reduce rental costs. Certain student residences offer rooms specifically adapted for students with reduced mobility.

More resources and help will be provided once you are admitted to a program at emlyon business school.

2) Where can I stay around campus?

The campuses in Lyon and Paris are both centrally located, providing students with a wide range of housing options in the surrounding areas.

Average rent prices (per month):

ADMISSION PROCESS

1) What is the admissions process for each program?

The admission process at emlyon business school varies depending on the program you are applying for, whether it's the Bachelor's, the Master in Management, the Master's or the Master of Science (MSc) programs.

  • Bachelor's: The Bachelor's programs are accessible after obtaining a high school diploma /certificate. Candidates must submit an online application, followed by digital tests (evaluations and simulated scenarios) to assess their managerial skills. This competitive exam is entirely online, accessible post-bac and applications open from mid-October.
  • Master in Management - Grande École (international admissions): This program is designed for students holding at least a Bachelor's degree and having spent two years studying abroad. The process includes the submission of an academic application, tests (GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE – or CAT for students from India), English proficiency tests (TOEFL iBT, TOEIC, IELTS, Cambridge English), as well as digital assessments including cognitive tests and a video interview.
  • Master's: To apply for emlyon business school‘s 2-year Master programs, you must meet specific academic requirements, including holding a Bachelor's degree or equivalent. The application process involves submitting documents like a resume, degree transcripts, and standardized test scores of under 5 years (GMAT, TOEFL, etc.), followed by a digital test that assesses your motivation and problem-solving skills. The digital test includes video and written motivation questions and interactive professional scenarios.
  • Master of Science (MSc): These programs are aimed at students seeking further specialization after a 3- or 4-year Bachelor's degree minimum. Candidates must submit their application, including a resume, a copy of their academic degrees and transcripts from their undergraduate education. They can also provide test results (GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS) and recommendation letters. The MSc programs are entirely taught in English and the admission process includes digital tests with professional role-playing scenarios.
Our programs - emlyon business school

For more detailed information about the admission process, please visit the "Admissions" section of the specific program on our website.

It is recommended to apply as early as possible to maximize your chances of securing a spot in the program (some program applications may close earlier due to all seats being filled).

2) What are the differences between the programs?

  • The Master in Management - Grande Ecole program, the Master's and the Master of Science (MSc) programs are open to students with at least a Bachelor's degree.
  • The Specialized Masters (Mastères Spécialisés) are open to students with at least a 4-year Bachelor's degree
  • The Bachelor programs, on the other hand, are accessible after a high school diploma.

The Master in Management - Grande Ecole is a 2 to 3-year program of excellence that offers a multidisciplinary approach, starting with a general curriculum and progressively moving towards specialization (strategy, finance, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, etc.). The program is taught in both French and English. It also offers an optional gap year and the opportunity to pursue double degrees in France or abroad. It also requires a professional immersion (internship, work-study program/apprenticeship, etc.) of six months minimum.

The Master's and Master of Science (MSc) programs last between 18 and 24 months and are taught in English. They are designed for students who are already well established in their field and wish to specialize further or acquire dual expertise.

  • The Master's deliver a state-recognized degree certified by the CEFDG (French Commission of Higher Education): the Master's Grade (BAC+5)
  • The Master of Science programs deliver a Master of Science degree approved by the Conférence des Grandes Ecole

These programs provide a rich professional experience in an international environment with several periods abroad and a mandatory professional immersion (an internship for example).

A Mastère Spécialisé (MS) is a French postgraduate specialization degree designed for professionals with prior experience, offering highly focused, industry-specific training. These programs last for 12 to 15 months and are taught in French. Some of these programs are available in apprenticeship (work-study program).

More information on the programs

3) What are the differences between a Master's degree and a Master of Science program?

A Master's degree is a program certified by the CEFDG (French Commission of Higher Education), under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MESRI), which means it is recognized by the state. These programs must last two years, with the possibility of entering the final year for students who already hold a Bac +4 level, such as a first-year master's degree (M1) in a program that confers a master's grade and includes prior experience in the field.

We offer four Master's degrees: the Master in Finance and the Master in Innovation, which includes three specializations to choose from starting in M1 at the time of application: Digital Marketing and Data Analytics, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and Strategy and Consulting.

We have chosen to structure these master's degree programs over two years because they are very technical. This allows us to admit first-year students even if they do not yet have the necessary foundations while continuing to accept those who wish to specialize deeply only in the second year.

These Master's degrees are quite academic; we must adhere to several requirements, including a certain number of teaching hours, a specific percentage of professors from academic backgrounds, and the obligation to submit an English test (TOEIC, TOEFL, CAMBRIDGE, or IELTS) as well as a management test (TAGE, GMAT, or GRE) to apply. This is not the case for our Master of Science programs, where these tests are optional. However, we will assess these skills in logic, motivation, and English through our own digital tests, which take place online a few days after the application is validated.

Master of Science programs, on the other hand, are accredited by the CGE (Conférence des Grandes Écoles), which brings together top business schools in France. This certification is recognized by companies and does not affect employability, as these programs also enjoy a strong reputation.

These programs can be completed in 18 months (including one year of coursework and a six-month professional mission) or in 2 years (with two professional mission periods). They are less academic and more professionally oriented, primarily aimed at specializing students with a Bac+4 (4-year Bachelor's degree) or Bac+5 level (Master's degree), as well as some Bac+3 (3-year Bachelor's degree) students who already have a clear idea of the specialization field they are interested in. These programs are intensive and allow for a quicker entry into the job market. Additionally, the courses are less academic, offering more flexibility in content, and feature a higher proportion of professors from the professional world compared to academic instructors, unlike the more academic Master's degrees.

Finally, a key difference is that if you plan to pursue a PhD, it is essential to choose an academic Master's degree, as the PhD is part of the Bachelor's/Master's/PhD continuum. However, if your goal is to enter the job market directly after graduation, a Master of Science is perfectly suited.

4) What is the application deadline?

The application deadlines vary depending on the chosen program. However, recruitment periods generally run from the fall until the summer of the year of enrollment. It is recommended to check the specific deadlines for each program on the dedicated “Admissions” page.

Find the program that matches your ambition
admission emlyon business school

5) Do I have a better chance of being admitted depending on the application session?

No, your chances of admission do not depend on the application session you apply for or on the time of the year. However, applying in the earlier sessions ensures that spots are still available, which may become more uncertain in the later sessions (seat fill up quickly for some programs).

FINANCING

1) What is the cost of living in France?

The cost of living in France for a student mainly depends on the city they reside in. In the cities of Lyon and Paris, the estimated monthly budget is around €1,000 to €1,500. Here's an approximate breakdown of expenses:

  • Rent:
    -Lyon: between €550 and €700
    -Paris: between €850 and €1,200
  • Utilities (electricity, gas, internet, water): around €100
  • Transport:
    -Lyon: €25 for those under 26 years old, €72 for those over 26 years old
    -Paris: €32 for students under 26 years old, starting at 85€ for those over 26 years old
  • Food: between €200 and €300 (grocery shopping)
  • Miscellaneous (insurance, other costs): around €100
  • Phone: between €10 and €15
  • Leisure: between €100 and €200

These estimates may vary depending on the student's lifestyle.

2) How do I apply for financial aid or a scholarship?

To apply for financial aid or a scholarship at emlyon business school, follow these steps:

  1. Identify available aid: Research financial assistance options like the CROUS social scholarships or other scholarships (some are offered by emlyon). You can start your application process after being admitted to emlyon business school.
  2. Prepare your documents: Collect all required documents such as transcripts, proof of enrollment, financial information, and a motivation letter if necessary.
  3. Submit your application: Complete your application through the relevant platform. For instance, for a CROUS scholarship, fill out the Dossier Social Étudiant (DSE) between March and May.

For detailed information on the financial aid process, you can create an account on our website to access your dashboard and all scholarship documents. You can also contact your program advisor.

3) Are there scholarships available for international students?

To manage tuition fees at emlyon business school, several funding options are available, including scholarships, specific discounts, and partnerships with banking institutions.

  • CROUS Social Scholarships: Students can apply for a CROUS social scholarship based on financial need. These scholarships are calculated based on parental income and other criteria. Applications must be submitted between March 1st and May 31st, 2024. Not all programs are eligible for the CROUS scolarship: the “Financing” tab on your program will offer more detailed information.
  • emlyon business school Social Scholarship: Since 2022, emlyon business school has offered tuition fee reductions ranging from 5% to 100% for CROUS scholarship recipients who enroll in the Master in Management - Grande École program, as well as the Master in Finance and the Master in Innovation depending on their final CROUS scholarship level:

-Level 0bis: 5%
-Level 1: 10%
-Level 2: 15%
-Level 3: 20%
-Level 4: 30%
-Level 5: 50%
-Level 6: 75%
-Level 7: 100% The reduction is applied once the final CROUS notification for the previous academic year is submitted.

*The CROUS scholarship is accessible to students who are already in France when they apply.

  • Early bird scolarship: for some programs, you may benefit from an early bird discount if you apply early. Check conditions on the specific program's “Financing” tab.
  • Jacques Lambert Scholarships: This €2,500 scholarship is awarded to first-year students in the Master in Management - Grande École program who are under 22 years old, have excellent academic results, and come from modest financial backgrounds.
  • International Mobility Scholarships: For students wishing to participate in academic exchanges or internships abroad, emlyon business school offers mobility scholarships in partnership with Erasmus+ and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region. These scholarships include:
    -Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region Mobility Grants: This grant supports students doing internships or studying abroad outside Europe. Students typically receive between €1,000 and €1,500. Additional assistance is provided based on social criteria, with amounts ranging from €80 to €530 depending on the level of the CROUS scholarship. Students with disabilities receive an extra €530.
    -Erasmus+ Mobility Grants: This grant, financed by the European Union, supports study or internship mobility of up to 12 months. The monthly allowance ranges from €225 to €674. An additional €50 is awarded for choosing eco-friendly transportation, and another €250 may be granted if you meet specific inclusion criteria.
  • Banking Partners: emlyon business school has partnerships with various banks to assist students with loan options and banking services during their studies. These partners provide competitive financial solutions to help international students manage their tuition and living expenses. Important: you can only obtain a bank loan from emlyon business school's financial partners if you have a fiscal guarantor in France. If this is not the case, we advise you to obtain a loan in your country of origin before your arrival.
Find out more about our banking partners

4) Is there a financial emergency assistance program?

Yes, emlyon business school offers a financial emergency assistance program for students facing unexpected financial hardships.

emlyon Foundation Emergency Fund: This program is designed for students who find themselves in critical financial situations due to exceptional circumstances, such as family break-up, parental job loss, or health issues. Each request is individually assessed, and the allocated amounts vary according to the needs. One-time aids, such as service vouchers for purchasing groceries or essential products, can also be provided.

More information on the emlyon Foundation

CROUS Specific Annual Allowance (ASAA): This aid is intended for students who are financially independent or experiencing family breakdown, without material support from their parents. It is not cumulative with the means-tested grant and ranges from €1,454 to €6,335 per year, depending on the level.

These programs aim to support students in need, enabling them to continue their studies in better conditions.

For more information on eligibility to financial aid, you can contact your program advisor.

ACADEMIC

1) Do I need to prove my proficiency In French or English for admission / Can I study English in France?

Proficiency in English is essential for admission to programs taught in English at emlyon business school. Some programs require proof of language skills, such as standardized English exams (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.), particularly for those fully delivered in English. For specialized master's degrees taught in French, a strong command of French is required.

While a good level of English is mandatory for programs taught in English, it's important to note that the social, cultural, and professional environment in France remains predominantly French. Therefore, students should be prepared to navigate daily life in French, even if their academic program is delivered in English. French language courses are included in some programs.

2) What study materials are available?

In addition to the courses and workshops students will follow, a variety of study resources are available, including:

  • Library: Located on the ground floor of Building B, the library offers a large collection of books and publications available for borrowing. Students can also access individual and group study spaces, as well as receive guidance from information specialists. Additionally, the library website provides access to online resources, including academic databases, news, and e-learning platforms.
  • Makers' Lab: This unique prototyping workshop is open to all emlyon business school members. It provides various resources, including devices, materials, electronic components, and software, allowing students to quickly bring their ideas to life with the support of a dedicated team.
  • Online platforms: digital platforms such as Makersboard, Brightspace, Jobteaser or Talentspace, will give you access to all the internal information on the school (admin, news, processes), access job offers, register to the school's event or access all your program and course content.
  • Wi-Fi and IT Support: Free Wi-Fi is available on campus through the EMLEDUC network, which can be accessed using your emlyon business school credentials. For any technical issues, the Help Desk is available on campus or through the online support platform.

These resources aim to provide students with the necessary tools for success in their studies and projects. You will discover all of emlyon business school's study resources once you are admitted and integrated into your program.

3) How many international professors teach at emlyon business school?

emlyon business school has a faculty of 174 permanent professors, of which 47% are international professors. These high-level professionals enhance the programs through innovative teaching formats and excellence in research, contributing to global scientific discussions and economic and social debates in the following departments:

  • Marketing
  • Law, Management & Social Sciences
  • Strategy & Organization
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
  • Accounting & Corporate Finance
  • Operations, Data & Artificial Intelligence
  • Quantitative Finance & Economics
  • Law, Management and Social Sciences
More information about the emlyon faculty

4) What support is there to help you find an internship or your first job?

emlyon business school provides comprehensive support to help students find internships or their first job through its Career Center. This service offers personalized career guidance, practical workshops (CV writing, interview simulations), and access to the JobTeaser platform, where numerous job, internship, and apprenticeship opportunities are posted.

The Career Center regularly organizes recruitment events such as the Career Forums or the Challenge Week, conferences, and themed meetings with partner companies, both online and on campus. These events are designed to provide students with the opportunity to meet recruiters and connect with leading companies across various sectors, including international recruiters.

Discover the Career Center

5) Are there part-time work opportunities for international students?

It is possible for international students to work part-time in France, under certain conditions. However, it is important to note that some programs are particularly intensive and require a high level of academic commitment. This can limit the ability to combine part-time work with studies. Therefore, students should carefully assess their workload before seeking a job. Students can access internships and job offers on emlyon business school's internal platform: Jobteaser.

Other platforms such as Welcome to the Jungle, Indeed, and Meteojob are also available to facilitate the search for professional opportunities in France.

DAILY LIFE

1) Do I need to have health insurance as an international student in France?

As an international student in France, it is mandatory to register for French Social Security (Sécurité Sociale) for stays longer than 90 days. This registration is free and covers a portion of your healthcare expenses. To complete the registration process, you need to visit the Ameli website and follow the instructions. Once registered, you will receive a social security number, and you will then be able to request a Carte Vitale, which is used for medical appointments.

In addition to Social Security, it is highly recommended to take out complementary health insurance (mutuelle) to cover the costs that are not reimbursed by Social Security. If you are staying for less than 90 days or have specific healthcare needs, it's advisable to get international health insurance starting from your arrival.

You will receive more information as you are admitted to emlyon business school.

2) What cellular/mobile phone and internet options are available?

In France, you have access to several mobile and Internet providers that offer various plans tailored to the needs of international students. The main providers include Orange (and its low-cost subsidiary SOSH), Bouygues Telecom (with B&YOU), SFR (with RED by SFR), and Free, known for its competitive offers.

These providers offer mobile plans that include calls, SMS, and data, often without a contract, allowing you to change your plan based on your needs. Prices vary depending on the amount of data and the services included (such as international calls).

For Internet access, the same providers offer home connection services through fiber or ADSL. These services are available in most accommodations, with different options for speed and data capacity. Free WIFI for students is also available on emlyon business school's campuses.

It's recommended to compare offers to choose the one that best fits your needs in terms of cost and services.

mobile phone and internet options

3) What types of credit cards are accepted, and how do I open a bank account?

To open a bank account in France, you will need an ID, a certificate of enrollment from emlyon business school, and proof of residence. French banks cannot refuse to open an account with these documents. If they do, you can contact the Bank of France.

As for bank cards, major cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted.

4) What are the key locations on the Lyon campus (library, cafeteria, etc)?

The emlyon business school campus is designed to provide students with an optimal learning environment. Key locations include:

  • The Library: Located on the ground floor of Building B, it offers a wide collection of books, individual and group study spaces, and access to online resources.
  • The beating heart: The beating heart of the campus is the central area situated on the ground level. It is the most eloquent example of this philosophy: it is a passageway, an area for relaxing, a gathering place, an event venue... As the 5th largest event venue in Lyon, the campus' central area hosts a variety of events: conferences, recruitment events, etc. When not in use, it serves as a space where students can relax, study, and enjoy meals.
  • Outside areas: One-third of the campus is dedicated to a park and outdoor spaces, including terraces, patios, and passageways
  • The Makers' Lab: A prototyping workshop open to all emlyon members, allowing you to bring your ideas to life using various tools and materials.
  • Classrooms and study rooms: The Lyon campus is equipped with 97 classrooms, which can accommodate between 5 and 85 students, and an auditorium with 240 seats. Students also have access to a booking system for reserving rooms for group meetings or presentations
  • Dining areas: Several counters serve a variety of cuisines, along with a connected dining space featuring smart fridges and microwaves for eating at any time.
  • The Bistro and Bakery: Located near the campus entrance, these are open to the public and offer quality meals, sandwiches, bread, and pastries.
  • Sports facilities: Sports at emlyon business school are practiced in nearby facilities. Slots can be booked via an emlyon business school platform.
  • An associative village: A 700 sqm space with a 200 sqm area, an event hall, several association workspaces and a soundproof music room. Designed to promote professional development, it serves as a hub for collaboration and growth.
  • Career Center: The Career Center provides services to guide students and alumni in their careers, centralizing job offers, organizing company visits, and offering workshops, coaching, and digital tools for application preparation.
  • emlyon business school Incubator: Our incubator supports high-potential start-ups during ideation and launch, focusing on building solid foundations and identifying growth strategies while avoiding common business pitfalls.
  • The Wellness Center by APICIL: Supported by APICIL, the Wellness Center offers free, confidential preventive healthcare to students, promoting healthy lifestyles. Available on all French campuses, the center includes nurses, a health doctor, a psychologist, a disability expert, and well-being coordinators.

STUDENT LIFE, CULTURE, & INTEGRATION

1) Are there orientation programs for new international students?

Yes, emlyon business school offers orientation programs specifically designed for new international students. These programs include welcome sessions to help students get familiar with the campus and its services, as well as practical workshops to ease administrative and academic integration.

The Bureau des Internationaux (BDI) is a student association which plays a key role in welcoming international students. It organizes many social and cultural events throughout the year, with special attention to the first days on campus with the International Week. These events help newcomers connect with other students and quickly immerse themselves in life at emlyon business school. The BDI also fosters cultural exchange through activities like international evenings, excursions, and meetings between French and international students.

2) What opportunities are there to join student associations?

At emlyon business school, student life is a key part of the overall experience. With 45 active associations, in the fields of photography, tech, music, sustainable development, geopolitics, fashion, luxury, debating, sciences, art, literature, journalism, public speaking, entrepreneurship, finance, sport, wine, gastronomy and more.

Involvement in an association is an integral part of the emlyon business school culture. Joining an association allows students to develop key skills such as project management, teamwork, and leadership, while also building strong connections with their peers. While joining associations is specific to certain programs, such as the Master in Management and Global BBA, some events are accessible to all students. This approach promotes inclusivity and encourages interactions among students from various cohorts. Some of these events are even open to the public or other students, allowing associations to share their initiatives beyond the campus:

  • Launch of the Petit Paumé guide (local guide to restaurants and culture in Lyon): The launches are unique events that each year bring together tens of thousands of people from Lyon at Place Bellecour and then in Villeurbanne for the distribution of the Petit Paumé guide.
  • The Adhémar Cup: Every year, students from the ski club organize one of the largest student ski competitions in the Alps during an exceptional weekend. 600 students from some of the most prestigious business and engineering schools participate in this event
  • The Bacchus Challenge: This event is the first student wine blind tasting competition where students from the most prestigious national and international schools compete against each other. Each year, we welcome these wine enthusiasts to an exceptional venue in the Lyon region and invite them to conclude the competition with a gourmet meal prepared by a renowned chef from Lyon.

Associations offer an excellent opportunity to fully integrate into campus life, participate in the many activities throughout the academic year, and strengthen the sense of belonging to the emlyon business school community, especially for international students who find opportunities for exchange and collaboration.

3) What cultural and social events are organized for international students?

At emlyon business school, student associations and the Bureau des Internationaux (BDI) organize numerous events throughout the year to enhance campus life and facilitate the integration of international students. Some of the BDI's key events include*:

  • International Week: A themed week where the entire school, including administration and associations, organizes events to introduce international students to campus life and inform French students about international opportunities offered by the school.
  • International Night: A large international dinner followed by a student party.
  • World In a Bar: An evening at a bar with international music and activities.
  • Apéroad'trip and Karaoké'trip: Apartment gatherings with themed cocktails, including karaoke.
  • Pub crawls: A bar tour in Lyon, bringing together French and international students.
  • Discovery Day: A cultural day to explore Lyon and its surroundings.

These events provide students with many opportunities to build connections and fully immerse themselves in the social and cultural life at emlyon business school.

Other associations also organize events accessible to international students*:

  • Integration Seminar (WEI): After the intakes, the main Student Association (BDE) organizes a 3-day weekend for over 1,000 students in an exceptional location. This event aims to foster initial connections and establish a sense of belonging among the new students while allowing them to meet those from other cohorts.
  • The Bacchus Challenge: This event is the first student wine blind tasting competition where students from the most prestigious national and international schools compete against each other. Each year, we welcome these wine enthusiasts to an exceptional venue in the Lyon region and invite them to conclude the competition with a gourmet meal prepared by a renowned chef from Lyon.
  • BOL D'AIR: A must-not-miss flagship event! With 500 runners and 800 participants, and a budget of €50,000, Bol d'Air is steeped in the history and traditions of emlyon business school. For 45 years, it has brought together the student community and professionals every spring for a 100 km race, both on foot and by bike, in the heart of the Beaujolais region.
  • HANNIBAL RAID: Over the course of 4 days, participants will cover 160 km with an elevation gain of 9,000 meters, taking on 11 varied challenges, including trail running, mountain biking, a surprise activity, a night trail, and an orienteering course, with 250 runners competing.

*Some events are only accessible to students from the Master in Management or the Global BBA

4) What is the cultural and student life experience in France, in Paris and Lyon?

France is a country rich in culture, known for its art, cuisine, history, and fashion. From the world-renowned cuisine of Lyon to the iconic landmarks of Paris, students at emlyon business school can fully immerse themselves in this vibrant culture, whether they are in Paris or Lyon. And both cities are only a 2-hour train ride from each other.

Paris: The City of Light
In Paris, you'll find a unique cultural experience. The city is famous for its landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Beyond its beautiful buildings, Paris has many art galleries, theaters, music festivals, and incredible food. French culture is also characterized by its café lifestyle, where you can enjoy leisurely meals and conversations with friends. Studying in Paris gives you a chance to meet people from different backgrounds and build a professional network, as many international companies are based here. You can explore events and activities using platforms like Sortir à Paris and Le Bonbon Paris.

Lyon: The Gastronomy Capital
Lyon is known as the capital of French gastronomy, offering a lively cultural scene. The city has numerous museums, festivals, and historical sites, all set against beautiful natural landscapes. Lyon is famous for its traditional bouchons, where you can savor authentic local dishes. As an emlyon business school student, you can use Le Petit Paumé, a guide created by students, to find the best places to eat and things to do in Lyon. The city also boasts a variety of restaurants, markets, and grocery stores featuring international foods. Plus, both ski resorts in the Alps and beautiful beaches are only about 2 hours away by car from Lyon.

Explore France and beyond
Whether you're in Paris or Lyon, both cities offer rich cultural experiences and many opportunities to explore. They are well-connected by transportation, making it easy to travel around France and Europe. For example, Lyon is just 2 hours from Paris or Marseille by high-speed train (TGV). You can also easily access big European cities by train from Lyon or Paris such as Geneva, Brussels, Milan, Amsterdam or Frankfurt.

5) What support is available for international students with disabilities at emlyon business school?

emlyon business school provides comprehensive support for students with disabilities. Each student can benefit from specific accommodations for their studies, such as pedagogical or logistical adjustments. A disability advisor is available to assess needs and implement personalized solutions, whether for access to buildings, equipment, or exam arrangements. The school is committed to ensuring inclusion and equal opportunities for all students, including international students.

Our team is available at the following email address: handicap@em-lyon.com

You will have more information once you are enrolled into the program.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION

1) What support is there to help you find an internship or a first job or part-time work opportunities?

emlyon business school provides extensive support to help students find internships, first jobs, or part-time work. Through the Career Center, students receive personalized guidance for career planning, including practical workshops on CV writing, interview preparation, and networking strategies. They also have access to the JobTeaser platform, which lists numerous job and internship opportunities. In fact, there are 45,000+ job offers posted by recruiters every year on the platform. emlyon business school organizes recruitment events and meetings with partner companies throughout the year, facilitating professional connections both in France and internationally.

International students are allowed to work part-time in France, but it's important to consider that some programs at emlyon business school are very intensive and require significant academic commitment, which may limit the ability to balance work and studies.

More information about the Career Center

2) As a foreigner, can I be hired by a French company?

Yes, as an international student, it is possible to be hired by a French company. However, some companies may require that you speak French, especially for positions that involve frequent interactions with French-speaking clients or partners. That said, many international companies and large French corporations also offer English-speaking positions and jobs abroad.

Additionally, emlyon business school provides support through the Career Center, which helps you with your job search thanks to personalized advice, practical workshops, and access to platforms like JobTeaser.

3) What are the internship periods?

Internship periods vary depending on the program you are enrolled in. Each program has its own schedule, designed to provide a professional immersion that aligns with the academic pace and goals of the program. Below, you will find a calendar outlining the specific internship periods for each program.

Internship start dates

Dates for the Master's and Master of Science may vary from a few weeks depending on the program. Check the specific program page for details on the internship period.

Discover all our programs