Diversity defines INSEAD, but one common trait unites all successful applicants—their ambition to build a thriving academic career.
Strong communication skills are essential for success as a professor—your research can only make an impact if you can present it effectively. If you have the potential, INSEAD will help you develop these skills throughout the programme. A solid mathematical background is also a valuable asset and crucial for most specialisations. As our research methods are highly quantitative, some admitted students may need to complete preparatory coursework before starting the programme.
Beyond a strong desire for an academic career, we seek candidates with four key qualities: a proven academic record in any discipline, creativity and curiosity to excel in research, strong English proficiency, and the motivation and drive to conduct independent, impactful research.
We don’t require a business degree, master’s, MBA, or work experience—though many successful applicants have them. There’s no preference for any specific undergraduate background; what matters most is your potential for academic excellence.
Simply put, there’s no typical profile. Whether you're a recent graduate in a business-related field, have discovered a passion for business research through a master’s or work experience, or come from backgrounds like mathematics, IT, science, or the arts—what matters is a strong interest in business as a future academic pursuit.
Applications are submitted online, opening in early Fall, a year before the intake, with a preferred deadline in early December and final submission deadline in the first week of January. The PhD Committee reviews applications, interviews shortlisted candidates, and final decisions are announced by late March or early April for the mid-August start. The process takes about three to four months, but early preparation is recommended, with applications ideally submitted at least a month before the deadline.
Applicants must submit scores from either the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) by ETS or the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) by Pearson VUE, both available globally. It is strongly recommended to take the test by fall to ensure timely submission of scores to INSEAD. Applications without a valid test score will not be considered.
The INSEAD PhD in Management is conducted entirely in English and requires strong written and verbal communication skills. Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL score unless they have earned a degree from an institution where English was the sole language of instruction. The TOEFL, administered by ETS, is available at designated global locations.
Start of application
Preferred Submission
Application Deadline
Intake
Successful applicants receive the INSEAD PhD Fellowship, which covers full tuition, a generous living allowance, substantial research and conference funding, and comprehensive health insurance. This support allows students to focus fully on their research without financial concerns or heavy teaching obligations.
The fellowship is granted for five years, renewed annually based on satisfactory progress. Students are encouraged to seek external funding, which INSEAD complements with additional support. Paid maternity leave is also offered, with an automatic six-month extension of PhD status and funding.
Learn what makes the PhD Programme stand out among business schools worldwide.
Learn what makes the PhD Programme stand out among business schools worldwide.
Learn what makes the PhD Programme stand out among business schools worldwide.
Understand the programme through the people who shape it—students, faculty, alumni, and supporters.