International Pre‑Master’s Program

At a glance

Program format

Full-time, Work-study

Duration

9 months

Campus

Languages

English

Tuition fees

€12,000

Program format

Full-time, Work-study

Duration

9 months

Campus

Languages

English

Tuition fees

€12,000

The International Pre‑Master’s Program (IPMP) at GEM Alpine Business School is a 9-month, on-campus postgraduate pathway designed for ambitious international students who want to pursue a top European business degree. This pathway transitions you into world-class Master’s / MSc programs, giving you the options to choose from Global MBA, MSc Managing with Data and Artificial Intelligence, or MSc Management in International Business (MIB), subject to meeting progression criteria.

Program Highlights

Your gateway to a global business degree and an international career.

Fast-track pathway to top Master’s programs: 9-month academic bridge designed to prepare international students for entry into Master’s and MSc programs.
Strong focus on research and academic excellence: Integrated training in quantitative and qualitative research methods, academic writing, and critical thinking to meet the standards of rigorous Master ’s-level study.
Business-ready skills in strategy and finance: Core modules in business strategy and finance fundamentals build commercial awareness and decision-making skills relevant for global careers.
Global mindset and intercultural teamwork: Dedicated learning on organizational behaviour, leadership, and working in multicultural teams to help students succeed in international study and workplace environments.
Holistic study skills and professional development: Guided development of independent study habits, digital literacy, time management, ethics, and professional behaviours to support long-term academic and career success.
Learn French language and cultural immersion: Opportunity to study French to build practical communication skills, understand Francophone culture, and enhance employability in European and international job markets.

*Successful IPMP graduates meeting progression requirements and the specified entry criteria shall be guaranteed entry to Year 1 of GEM Master’s / MSc programs or Conférence des Grandes École programs with advanced standing as approved by GEM.

Why Choose Grenoble’s full-time MBA?

1Tailored Specializations

Customize your learning with specialized tracks in Finance, Luxury, Entrepreneurship, or Business Analytics to prepare for leadership in transformative industries.

2Applied Research Project

Complete an in-depth management project aligned with your career goals, producing actionable insights under expert faculty supervision.

3Global Immersions

Develop cross-cultural leadership skills through collaboration with a diverse international community and an immersive one-week study trip to Berlin, a key global business hub, fully included in the program fees.

4Intensive Full-Time Program

Accelerate your development in a focused, immersive environment where sustainability, innovation, and inclusion are core values.

5Career Advancement Support

Benefit from personal branding workshops, soft skills training, and direct access to a vast global alumni network to expand your professional opportunities.

Why choose the MSc Programs at GEM?

Fully recognized and accredited by the French Ministry of Higher Education.
Study with your peers from over 20 different nationalities
Benefit from academic and professional faculty
Up to 6 months of professional work experience per year
Taught 100% in English
Join an international community of 49,000+ alumni

A Word from the Director

“Today’s business landscape demands agile, responsible, and resilient leaders. The GEM MBA empowers ambitious professionals to drive transformative change in their organizations and their fields. Located in Grenoble, a global hub for technology and sustainable ecosystems, our AMBA-accredited program emphasizes practical, applied learning. You’ll gain the expertise and networks to deliver strategic solutions and sustainable impact. Through collaboration with international faculty and a diverse cohort, you’ll develop the cross-cultural leadership capacity vital for today’s environment. Join the GEM MBA to master emerging trends and lead at the forefront of global business.”

Chahndra Dal Pont
MBA Programs Director

Required experience

None

VPL accessibility

Accessible

PRM accessibility

Accessible

6 Good Reasons to Choose GEM

Global Recognition

Ranked Top 8 in France and Top 30 in Europe, GEM is among the top 1% of business schools worldwide holding triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA).

Targeted expertise

Specialized programs designed to deepen knowledge in key management fields and develop distinctive expertise.

Real-world experience

Applied projects, company-based assignments, case studies and, depending on the program, work-study options — ensuring learning is firmly grounded in real business practice.

International outlook

Programs taught in English and multicultural learning experiences that prepare students to perform effectively in global professional environments.

Career acceleration

Programs designed to strengthen professional impact, increase market value and support ambitious career trajectories.

Trailblazing leadership with purpose

Campuses embedded in leading scientific, technological and industrial ecosystems, fostering innovation, engagement and the development of strong professional networks, in France and internationally.

Your questions, answered

Everything you need to know about GEM, its programs, the international experience and career opportunities after graduation — at a glance.

What is the GEM Master’s?

GEM’s Master’s programs are globally recognized postgraduate degrees designed to build strong business foundations, specialized expertise, and international exposure. They combine academic excellence with practical learning, preparing students to succeed in a fast-evolving global business environment.

Who is the Master’s for?

The program is designed for recent graduates or early-career professionals with a strong academic background who want to specialize, gain international exposure, or accelerate their career in a specific domain such as business, data, finance, or management.

Career opportunities after the Master’s

Graduates step into roles across consulting, finance, marketing, technology, and global organizations. With strong employability outcomes and industry exposure, many secure roles within months of graduation and progress quickly into impactful positions.

What makes GEM’s Master’s unique?

GEM’s Master’s programs stand out for their strong focus on real-world learning through internships and live projects, combined with extensive international exposure via global partner universities. The programs offer a wide range of specializations and double degree opportunities, while integrating key themes such as technology, sustainability, and global business. This holistic approach ensures students are well-prepared to navigate and succeed in today’s complex and evolving business environment.

Is the Master’s taught in English?

Yes, many GEM Master’s programs are fully taught in English, with options to study in a multicultural environment and gain international experience across campuses and partner institutions.

How to apply?

Applications are submitted online via GEM’s admissions platform. Candidates are asked to provide transcripts, a CV, GMAT or GRE scores (with possible waivers), proof of English proficiency, a motivation letter, and recommendation letters. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an admissions interview, and applying early is strongly recommended due to high demand and limited class size.

Discover: the courses of the International Pre‑Master’s Program

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Immersive Curriculum for Future Leaders

Program Outcomes

By the end of the International Pre‑Master’s Program, students will have developed the essential academic, language, and professional skills required to successfully progress into a Master’s or MSc program within an international and multicultural academic environment.

Research & Data-Driven Decision Making

Design and conduct both quantitative and qualitative research, analyse data using appropriate tools, and apply insights to support evidence-based business and management decisions.

Academic Writing & Professional Communication

Produce clear, well-structured academic essays and reports, build coherent arguments, and present complex ideas confidently through professional oral and visual communication.

Business Strategy & Financial Understanding

Develop a solid understanding of core business strategy and finance concepts, interpret financial information, and apply strategic and financial tools to real-world business scenarios.

Global Teamwork & Leadership Skills

Collaborate effectively within diverse international teams, demonstrate leadership and interpersonal skills, and communicate with cultural sensitivity in academic and professional environments.

Personal Effectiveness & Professional Development

Build strong study habits, time management, and digital literacy while demonstrating ethical and professional behaviour, along with the ability to reflect on personal strengths, goals, and career aspirations.

International Communication & Cultural Fluency

Enhance their ability to communicate in international contexts, with the option to develop foundational spoken and written French alongside broader intercultural awareness and global employability skills.

Program Overview

Academic Foundation

Build strong academic, research, and analytical skills for postgraduate success.

Global Learning Experience

Study in an international environment with diverse peers and global exposure.

Semester Abroad at the Same Tuition Fee

Study across 200+ universities globally with no additional academic fees.

Bilingual Advantage

Learn in English while developing French for global career opportunities.

Curriculum

Research Methods (Quantitative & Qualitative) (60 hours)

Indicative Topics:

Unit 1: Research philosophy and methodology (positivism, interpretivism, pragmatism)
Unit 2: Quantitative methods: surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis
Unit 3: Qualitative methods: interviews, focus groups, content analysis
Unit 4: Research design and sampling techniques
Unit 5: Data collection and data management
Unit 6: Use of software tools for analysis (SPSS, Excel, NVivo)
Unit 7: Ethical issues in research

Academic Writing & Presentations (80 hours)

Indicative Topics:

Introduction to Academic Writing
Developing Effective Arguments and Communication
Literature review and synthesis
Presentation skills: slides, speech, and delivery
Visual aids, data visualization, and storytelling
Communication for multicultural audiences

Business Strategy & Finance Fundamentals (50 hours)

Indicative Topics:

Strategic analysis frameworks (SWOT, PESTEL, Porter’s Five Forces)
Business models and value creation
Basics of financial accounting and reporting
Key financial ratios and performance indicators
Budgeting and financial planning for strategy
Case studies of global business strategy

Global Teams & Organizational Behavior (50 hours)

Indicative Topics:

Team roles, dynamics, and conflict resolution
Leadership styles and decision-making
Motivation theories and applications in organizations
Organizational culture and change management
Cross-cultural communication and virtual teams
Case studies of global organizations

Academic Study Skills & Professional Behaviors (60 hours)

Indicative Topics:

Time management and personal productivity
Research skills, referencing, and academic integrity
Critical thinking and problem-solving approaches
Professional behaviour, ethics, and workplace readiness
Teamwork, leadership, and communication skills
Reflective learning and personal development

French Language (Optional: 120 Hours)

Indicative Topics:

Introduction to French pronunciation, spelling, and sentence structure
Everyday communication: greetings, introductions, and basic interactions
Functional vocabulary for academic and professional settings
Grammar essentials: articles, nouns, verbs, adjectives, tenses, and negation
Writing short messages, emails, and descriptions in French
Understanding short dialogues, audio clips, and written passages
Cross-cultural communication and French etiquette in professional contexts
Overview of Francophone cultures, traditions, and institutions
The role of language learning in global citizenship and career development
Reflective activities on linguistic progress and intercultural competence

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Profiles & Careers

Global MBA

Career Outcomes

Ranked

Top 20 globally

International Mobility (Financial Times)

$108k USD

Average weighted salary 3 years after graduation (FT 2025)

89%

Work internationally*

67%

Employment with sustainability relevance*

The GEM Global MBA holds prestigious global and national rankings, demonstrating strong career outcomes and international impact.

Our graduates transition into leadership roles across diverse sectors, with 56% securing employment within 4 months and 88% holding permanent contracts*.

*Career statistics based on 2024 graduates employed at time of survey.

Top Employers

Our graduates join leading global organizations across industries:

Accenture – Allianz – Amazon – Bancolombia – Becton Dickinson – Capgemini – Deloitte – Ernst & Young – Estée Lauder – General Electric Renewable Energy – HelloFresh – HP – HSBC – KPMG – L’Oréal Paris – Microsoft – Renault – Rossignol – Schneider Electric – STMicroelectronics – The Boston Consulting Group – Zalando

Top Sectors

2025 Intake Class Profile

MBA 2022 Graduate

“By strategically leveraging my MBA, I seamlessly transitioned from engineering management to C-suite in operations, experiencing a significant uplift in my earning potential while charting a course towards unparalleled professional growth”

Nicolas Potet
BU Director, Nouvergies

Working in France

After completing their degree in France, international students may apply for a “Recherche d’emploi ou Création d’entreprise” residence permit, which allows graduates to work or start a business in France for one year . For more details, consult the Campus France or Ministry of Interior websites.

Your further studies after the MSc Managing with Data & AI program

Graduates of the Master of Science program may continue their studies with an Advanced Master.

Potential positions

Junior Information Systems Manager
Business and AI Consultant
Data and Artificial Intelligence Project Manager

Top employers

Bearingpoint
BNP Paribas
Capgemini
Deloitte
DXC Technology
Equancy
Expedia
Fox Intelligence
Havas
IBM
KPMG
Micropole
PwC
Talan Consulting
Wavestone

Launch your career

At GEM, the transition to the professional world begins on day one to ensure successful career integration for all students.

Your further studies after the MSc Management in International Business (MIB) program

81^%

of graduates find a job within 4 months after graduation.

78k^€

Average gross annual salary at graduation

47^%

of graduates start their careers abroad

*Data based on the Class of 2023.

Potential positions

International Development Director
Import/Export/ Director
International Financial Director
Marketing Manager
Management Consultant
Sales Manager
Business Developer
Branch Director
Sales & Marketing Director
International Trade Consultant
International Product Manager

Top employers

Accenture
Amadeus
Amazon
Axa
Bloomberg LP
Capgemini
Coty
Danone Deloitte
EY
General Electric
Google
Nike
HSBC
IBM
J.P. Morgan
KPMG
L’Oréal
LVMH
Nestlé
Nissan
MAGE
Orange
PrOcter and Gamble
PWC
Schneider Electric
Société Générale
Philips
Salesforce

Launch your career

To help you access the careers that inspire you, you can count on:

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Candidate Profile

Our candidates are experienced professionals from varied sectors, demonstrating maturity, intellectual curiosity, and strong communication skills. A clear motivation for an international career and openness to cultural diversity are essential. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is required.

Tuition Fees

Paris campus: €12,000 for IPMP, 2026 intake*

*Fees are subject to change. Please verify current fees each year before the start of the program.

Policy concerning the refund of tuition fees

Scholarship Offers

GEM IPMP candidates get upto 60% bursary on tuition fee depending on the program opted for the progression. We advise students to research financial aid opportunities as early as possible. Please note that it is necessary to submit your application and secure a place in a program first, before applying for scholarships and visas.

Financial Aid Options

Application Requirements:

English Level

Minimum IELTS score: From 4.5 (or equivalent)

Academic Requirements

Undergraduate qualification: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Minimum academic background: 3 years of higher education (180 ECTS or equivalent)
International Student status: International applicant (non-French national)
Academic grades meeting French 8 / 20 equivalent (as per Grade Equivalence Framework)
Professional Experience
A minimum of 3 years of prior work experience is necessary for progression into the Global MBA.

Progression Requirements

Successful IPMP graduates who meet the progression requirements and program-specific entry criteria are guaranteed entry into Year 1 of GEM Master’s or MSc programs.
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.0.
Students must achieve a minimum of 50% in each module and an overall average of 60% for the foundation program.

Contacts

Questions? Meet Us

Discuss your profile, career goals, and scholarship fit with an advisor. Explore how the GEM Global MBA supports your ambitions.

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The MBA Experience

Immerse yourself in an international journey that goes far beyond the classroom. At GEM, you will discover your potential to lead with global impact and innovation in a truly global business environment.

Located in France's Silicon Valley

Grenoble, known as France’s Silicon Valley, offers a dynamic platform to master transformational leadership. Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, our location provides a unique blend of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and natural beauty . The MBA campus sits at the center of high-tech industries, research centers, and startups—all just minutes from the vibrant city center.

Hands-On Learning in Small Classes

Experience interactive, experiential learning through real-world business cases and industry projects. With small class sizes and accessible faculty, you’ll benefit from personalized attention and active participation . Engage with expert speakers including alumni and industry professionals, and gain access to GEM Labs where you can apply theory to practice.

Study Trip to Berlin

Spend a week in Berlin, Europe’s leading startup hub. Connect with innovation centers, explore the thriving tech scene, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural landscape while expanding your professional network and global perspective.

Global Alumni Network

Join a vibrant community of over 2,300 MBA alumni and 49,000 GEM alumni worldwide. Access exclusive conferences, masterclasses, and collaborative solution sessions that open doors to career advancement and continuous learning.

Life in Grenoble

Grenoble is one of France’s most international cities and the second after Paris where English is widely spoken. Beyond academics, you’ll enjoy an exceptional student life with active clubs, cultural events, and outdoor adventures—from skiing and hiking in the Alps to exploring the walkable city center. With flexible visa options after completing your coursework, you can extend your stay to finish your final project while continuing to experience everything this dynamic city has to offer.

Life in France – A Blend of Culture and Innovation

Studying in France offers a unique opportunity to experience a rich cultural heritage, world-class education, and a vibrant lifestyle. From historic cities and stunning landscapes to cutting-edge research and innovation hubs, France provides an environment that fosters personal growth, academic excellence, and professional opportunities. Students benefit from a high quality of life, excellent public transport, and a thriving student community across the country.

Life in Grenoble – The Alpine Campus

Located in the heart of the Alps, GEM’s Grenoble campus combines innovation, nature, and an outstanding quality of life. Students enjoy close proximity to mountains perfect for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, while studying in a city known as a scientific and technological hub. Grenoble hosts numerous start-ups, research centers, and international companies, offering students ample opportunities for collaboration, internships, and projects. The city’s compact size allows for a lively and accessible student life.

Life in Paris – The Pantin Campus

GEM’s Paris-Pantin campus places students at the center of a European hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, surrounded by leading companies, start-ups, and international institutions. Studying in Paris means access to the cultural, economic, and political capital of France, with unparalleled opportunities to attend conferences, professional networks, and cultural events. The campus combines a modern, collaborative environment with the resources of a global metropolis, offering students the ideal setting to develop creativity, innovation, and career prospects.

GEM has been awarded the Bienvenue en France Level 3 label for welcoming international students.

GEM has been awarded the state-certified “Bienvenue en France” level 3 label, attesting to the excellence of its welcome and support for international students.

Discover: Admission requirements for the International Foundation Program

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Complete an internship during your program

Internships: your professional springboard

Internships are an integral part of all GEM programs, from the Bachelor to the Master level, with placements lasting 2 to 6 months each year, either in France or abroad. These hands-on experiences serve as a bridge between academic learning and the professional world, allowing students to explore different roles, industries, and career paths while developing valuable skills and professional networks.

Internships are a key asset for employability, helping students refine their career goals and often leading to full-time job offers even before graduation.

Bringing your entrepreneurial project to fruition

Special arrangements

Got an idea? Want to start a business? At any point during your studies, the Talent Office will review your project and, after examination by a committee, may propose a curriculum adjustment that allows you to pursue your studies and start a business at the same time. In this case, your work-study program can be tailored to your business project.

A 100% GEM incubator

Created in 2011, IncubaGEM, GEM’s start-up incubator, is THE driving force behind entrepreneurship at the school. Reserved for GEM students and graduates, it offers support for a maximum period of 18 months. Nearly 350 start-ups have benefited from it since 2011, including Wizbii, ISKN, Homunity, Andyamo, Lokki, and more.

Dedicated courses

Each year, courses and specializations allow you to sharpen your entrepreneurial spirit.

Discover: Admission requirements for the International Foundation Program

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"The MBA taught me how to balance innovation with practicality by enabling us to identify the value of innovative ideas and to prioritize them well."

Suhasa Gottumukkala Product and AI Lead, POSpulse

"My favourite part of the MBA was being able to hone my collaborative skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment."

Pallavi Shanbhag Diversity Equity and Inclusion Project Manager, STMicroelectronics

"The MBA has advanced my career and enriched my personal development. It has made me a more effective consultant, capable of guiding organizations "

Mohamed Hilali Senior Consultant, Capgemini Invent

"The MBA gave me a broader perspective on leadership and problem-solving."

Maria Antonova Sr Director Global Procurement Strategy, Portfolio & Program Management, Teva Pharmaceuticals

Must-Read Articles

Rankings & Recognition

Leadership & Career Development

Leveraging the GEM MBA to Transform Your Career
How An MBA In France Gives You The Soft Skills To Be A Business Leader | Business Because
Here Are 5 Top MBA Jobs—And How A Global MBA In France Can Help You Succeed | Business Because
How To Build Your Professional Profile At Business School With Experiential Learning | Business Because
Finding the Right MBA: A Guide for International Women’s Day

Sustainability in Management

Innovation & Technology

School Experience & Community

A Word from our alumni

Read their story:

Video Highlights

Watch stories from GEM MBA graduates who are driving change globally, and learn more about our programs.

MBA Webinars: Upcoming Events & Replays

Sign up for upcoming Live Online Information Sessions and via the replays of past sessions to hear directly from our programs team, faculty, and alumni!

Discover how international immersion, diverse perspectives, and real-world business exposure come together at GEM. Hear authentic stories from students who are living the experience.

Discover GEM’s MBA & EMBA programs with insights from expert faculty, dedicated career advisors, and recent graduates who’ve successfully transitioned to leadership roles.

Business Because, the leading global platform for business school insights, hosted an exclusive live webinar to help participants maximize their MBA journey at GEM.

Discover: Work-Study Format & Internships within our International Foundation Program

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Connect with our International Recruitment Team to get personalized guidance on programs, the application process, and your future career opportunities. Our dedicated advisors are here to help you choose the program that best aligns with your ambitions and professional goals.

International Pre‑Master’s Program

At a glance

Program format

Full-time, Work-study

Duration

9 months

Campus

Paris

Languages

English

Tuition fees

€12,000

Program format

Full-time, Work-study

Duration

9 months

Campus

Paris

Languages

English

Tuition fees

€12,000

Program Highlights

Why Choose Grenoble’s full-time MBA?

Why choose the MSc Programs at GEM?

A Word from the Director

Chahndra Dal Pont MBA Programs Director

Required experience

None

VPL accessibility

Accessible

PRM accessibility

Accessible

6 Good Reasons to Choose GEM

Global Recognition

Targeted expertise

Real-world experience

International outlook

Career acceleration

Trailblazing leadership with purpose

Your questions, answered

Discover: the courses of the International Pre‑Master’s Program

Immersive Curriculum for Future Leaders

Program Outcomes

Program Overview

Academic Foundation

Global Learning Experience

Semester Abroad at the Same Tuition Fee

Bilingual Advantage

Curriculum

Discover: International Pre‑Master’s Program

Profiles & Careers

Global MBA

Career Outcomes

Ranked

Top 20 globally

$108k USD

89%

67%

The GEM Global MBA holds prestigious global and national rankings, demonstrating strong career outcomes and international impact.

Top Employers

Top Sectors

2025 Intake Class Profile

MBA 2022 Graduate

Nicolas Potet BU Director, Nouvergies

Your further studies after the MSc Managing with Data & AI program

Launch your career

Your further studies after the MSc Management in International Business (MIB) program

81%

78k€

47%

Launch your career

Discover: International Pre‑Master’s Program

Candidate Profile

Tuition Fees

Paris campus: €12,000 for IPMP, 2026 intake*

Scholarship Offers

Financial Aid Options

Contacts

Questions? Meet Us

Chahndra Dal Pont
MBA Programs Director

Nicolas Potet
BU Director, Nouvergies

81^%

78k^€

47^%