Last updated: 24 August 2021
The INSEAD Executive MBA is an intensive programme with a rigorous academic curriculum. To ensure that we bring the best talent to the class, applicants must either take the INSEAD Assessment, the GMAC Executive Assessment (EA) or the GMAT – all of which provide a uniform and standardised way of evaluating candidates’ aptitude to cope with the intensity and breadth of the programme.
Many of our candidates apply for the INSEAD Assessment as it has been developed especially for executives. Another advantage is that it gives you the opportunity to visit one of our campuses (if current health and safety measures allow), meet alumni and assess whether the school is indeed the right fit for you. Regardless of which assessment option you choose, you will need to set aside sufficient time to prepare and practice.
The application process will vary slightly depending on whether you choose to attempt the INSEAD Assessment, the EA or GMAT. Please review the table below and our admissions pages for more details.
INSEAD EMBA Application Process
INSEAD Assessment
We recommend that you submit your EMBA application at least two weeks prior to an upcoming INSEAD Assessment test date.
After the initial pre-selection, successful applicants are invited to the INSEAD Assessment, which also includes an admissions interview.
EA
You must submit your EMBA application together with your EA score.
After the initial application pre-selection (which includes evaluation of your EA score), successful applicants are invited to a face-to-face admissions interview with an alum organised online.
GMAT
You must submit your EMBA application together with your GMAT score.
After the initial application pre-selection (which includes evaluation of your GMAT score), successful applicants are invited to a face-to-face admissions interview with an alum organised online.
Scope
INSEAD Assessment
The INSEAD Assessment is designed to test academic capacity and business acumen. It covers four skill areas you would typically come across in business: data analysis, data interpretation, communication analysis, and critical thinking.
It also evaluates a broader range of aptitudes including presentation skills to show your ability to analyse a business scenario and communicate your key takeaways.
EA
The EA measures business skills and programme readiness through three broad skill areas: integrated reasoning, verbal and quantitative reasoning.
You will use English language and math skills to demonstrate your knowledge.
GMAT
The GMAT measures four broad skill areas: quantitative and verbal skills, integrated reasoning, and analytical writing.
You need to be proficient in certain grammar, algebra, geometry and arithmetic concepts in order to do well in the test.
Preparation
INSEAD Assessment
You can get a feeling for the INSEAD Assessment structure by looking at GMAT questions. You can also consider working with a third party to prepare, as it may help you to get into the study mode.
We recommend to practise in a mock testing environment, inclusive of time constraints. Please contact us for more details on how to prepare.
EA
Just like the GMAT, before sitting the actual test, you should practise in a mock testing environment, inclusive of time constraints.
There are many resources as well as third party preparation centres available to familiarise yourself with the format and practise EA questions.
GMAT
Before sitting the actual test, you should practise in a mock testing environment, inclusive of time constraints.
There are many resources as well as third party preparation centres available to familiarise yourself with the format and practise GMAT questions.
Testing Dates
INSEAD Assessment
Held online or on one of our three INSEAD campuses (or the additional option of the Tsinghua campus if you're applying for the TIEMBA) on one of the upcoming test dates. Candidates are invited for the INSEAD Assessment only once their EMBA Application has passed the pre-selection round.
EA
Held year-round in test centres around the world. You can book your test date and location online on the EA website.
GMAT
Held year-round in test centres around the world. You can book your test date and location online on the GMAT website.
Test Duration and Format
INSEAD Assessment
Consists of a 2-hour computerised test, as well as a case presentation and a panel interview (approx. 1,5 hours). Learn more about the INSEAD Assessment format.
EA
Consists of a 1,5-hour standardised computer adaptive test.
GMAT
Consists of a 3,5-hour standardised computer adaptive test.
Validity
INSEAD Assessment
The INSEAD Assessment is valid only for the INSEAD Global Executive MBA (GEMBA) or the Tsinghua-INSEAD Executive MBA (TIEMBA).
It can be taken only once.
EA
The EA is valid for five years and can be used to apply to other participating business schools. You have two attempts for EA. Please refer to the GMAC-EA website for more information on policies and procedures.
GMAT
The GMAT is valid for five years and can be used to apply to other business schools.
You can take the GMAT exam once every 16 calendar days and no more than five times in a 12-month period, and no more than eight times in total. Please consult the GMAT website for more information on exam policies.
Cost in 2020
INSEAD Assessment
€ 185
EA
USD 350
GMAT
USD 275
We recommend that you choose the form of assessment that is most practical and best plays to your strengths. If you would like to discuss the assessment options, required scores or your personal profile in more detail, please get in touch with us.
