INSEAD, or the Institut Européen d'Administration des Affaires, is a renowned graduate business school recognized worldwide for its rigorous academic programs and a diverse, international student body. Established in 1957, INSEAD boasts campuses in France, Singapore, San Francisco, and Abu Dhabi, making it one of the most significant players in global business education.

A Brief Overview of INSEAD

INSEAD is acknowledged as one of the top graduate business schools globally, offering a variety of programs including MBA, Executive MBA, and doctoral studies. The school takes pride in its exceptional faculty—165 members hailing from 42 different countries—who engage with over 1,500 students enrolled in various degree programs yearly. Furthermore, INSEAD caters to the professional development of more than 11,000 executives through its executive education programs annually.

Key Takeaways

The Historical Journey of INSEAD

The roots of INSEAD trace back to 1955 when the Paris Chamber of Commerce initiated the concept of a European business school. By 1959, the school welcomed its first cohort of MBA students, and by the end of the 1960s, it was already witnessing international participation, with its inaugural 52 graduates from 14 different countries.

Over the decades, INSEAD has expanded its educational offerings:

INSEAD's Campuses

The main campus is located in Fontainebleau, France, strategically placed just outside Paris. The Singapore campus, located in Buona Vista, is a mere 15-minute commute from the financial district, while the Abu Dhabi campus enhances INSEAD's profile in the Middle East.

Academic Programs at INSEAD

INSEAD provides a broad spectrum of both graduate and doctoral-level programs. Alongside its standard curricula, the school also tailors programs in partnership with corporations to suit specific executive education needs.

1. MBA Program

The 10-month, fully-accelerated MBA program features intakes in January and August. Core subjects include finance, economics, accounting, business ethics, and marketing, complemented by a selection of 75 elective courses. Notably, around 94% of graduates secure employment in their field within three months of graduation.

2. Global Executive MBA (GEMBA)

Aimed at experienced executives, the GEMBA program spans 14-17 months and involves a mix of group activities and 360-degree assessments, with classes averaging 222 students who typically possess around 14 years of professional experience.

3. Executive Master in Change

This 18-month program focuses on human behavior and organizational dynamics, teaching participants how to instigate organizational change effectively.

4. Executive Master in Finance

Designed for working professionals, the EMFin spans 18 months and consists of six modules delivered in an intensive format.

5. Tsinghua-INSEAD Executive MBA (TIEMBA)

This joint program offers students the opportunity to study at INSEAD campuses or Tsinghua University in Beijing, fostering a unique blend of Western and Eastern business education.

6. Ph.D. in Management

INSEAD’s prestigious five-year Ph.D. program prepares students for academic careers in business. The first two years focus on academic coursework, while the final three are dedicated to research and dissertation completion.

7. Certificate in Business Foundations

INSEAD also offers the INSEAD-Sorbonne Université Certificate Programme, targeting recent graduates seeking foundational business knowledge.

INSEAD’s Standing in Global Rankings

In the competitive landscape of international business schools, INSEAD frequently ranks among the top institutions. For instance, the Financial Times placed INSEAD second for MBA programs in 2023, while Harvard University came in at fourth, showcasing INSEAD's distinguished reputation in business education.

Costs of Attendance

As of the latest data: - The tuition fee for starting the MBA program in August 2023 is €97,000, while for January 2024, it is €98,500. - Additional living expenses in France typically amount to approximately €25,000.

Clarifying Misconceptions: Ivy League Status

It is important to clarify that INSEAD is not an Ivy League institution. Ivy League schools consist of a specific group of colleges and universities in the United States. INSEAD, while it stands among the world's elite, is based outside of this U.S.-centric classification.

The Bottom Line

INSEAD is a premier graduate business school with a rich history of academic excellence and a commitment to fostering an understanding of global business dynamics. With its locations across key global markets and a wide array of high-quality academic programs, INSEAD remains at the forefront of business education worldwide, preparing future leaders to navigate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.