Our standards are high, but extremely broad, as diversity is central to INSEAD’s as an institution. Typically only about 5% of applicants will receive an offer. However, all successful applicants have the following in common: the desire to pursue a successful career in academia.
Apart from that essential requirement, we are looking for applicants with a proven academic record, irrespective of subject background. Second, we’re looking for the creativity and independent thought necessary to become a great researcher. Third, the ability to work effortlessly in the English language is a necessity, as English is the sole medium of instruction at INSEAD. Fourth, we require evidence of motivation, determination and drive to follow through with goals, which are prerequisites for successful independent research.
However, you do not need to already have a background in business, a master’s degree, an MBA or work experience (although, of course, many successful applicants come with an MBA, an MSc or a successful business career behind them). Nor do we have a preference for any particular undergraduate area of study.
What does that mean in practice? Well, you might well be a fresh graduate in a business-related discipline. Or you might have developed an interest in business research through a master’s or a few years’ work experience. However, some of our best students have come straight from degrees in mathematics, IT, science or even the arts, but with a strong interest in business as a future field of academic study.
If this sounds like a good fit for you, continue exploring the admissions pages in this section to find out more information about the opportunities on offer and how to apply for them. You are also welcome to email our team with further questions at phd.info@insead.edu.
