HEC is among the top business schools in Europe and ranks number one in France. Over 100 permanent-tenure professors teach on the various programs, organize scientific conferences, publish research articles in refereed journals and are involved in the editorial board of international academic reviews. HEC hosts visiting professors from the most prestigious international universities and regularly awards the “Honoris Causa” to prominent professors teaching in France and abroad. Research is a key dimension: 300 articles published in refereed international journals during the last five years, 110 books published in French and 15 other languages the last five years, 230 scientific presentations in international conferences the last 2 years. HEC ranked first in European Financial Research by the Journal of Finance paying tribute to HEC’s Academic Excellence.

The HEC campus is located in Jouy-en-Josas, a southwestern suburb of Paris, close to Versailles. It is situated in the heart of a valley with 8,000 inhabitants, and has become famous for the celebrities that live there to escape the rigors of Paris and enjoy the environment of village life. It is only 20 kilometers (or 12 miles) from Paris and can be reached by commuter rail. Paris is the capital city of France, as well as the capital of the Together with its suburbs, including Jouy-en-Josas, and satellite cities, Paris has a population estimated at 11.5 million. Paris is the most populous urban area in the European Union and is the second largest metropolitan area in Europe (after Moscow, and along with London).Greater Paris metropolitan area is the largest financial and business center of Europe (alongside London), harboring more than 30% of France's white-collar population, as well as more than 40% of the headquarters of French companies, with the largest business district of Europe (La Défense), and the second largest stock exchange in Europe (Euronext). Known worldwide as the City of Light (la Ville Lumière), Paris has been a major tourist destination for centuries. The city is renowned for the beauty of its architecture, its urban perspectives and avenues, as well as the wealth of its museums.

French business schools (Grande Ecole) reserve the undergraduate cycle for the top French students, who do 2 years in so called 'preparatory classes' and then join HEC for one year after a very strong and highly selective entrance exam. All Babson students attending will take their courses with HEC students in their Master’s Program. For the reason students must be strong academically and be very independent. Previous work on internship experience is also highly valued but not required. Core courses are offered in a multitude of business disciplines, including Management, Strategy, Marketing, Information Systems, Finance, Human Resource Management. There are also electives in a multitude of business and humanities areas. Students also take a French language course for credit. Normally the HEC fall term ends in February, but first semester students are allowed to sit exams in mid to late January with permission of the instructor.

It is recommended that students take B1 courses because these end in November instead of February.

Student should take a minimum of 25 HEC credits, about 7-8 classes (about 20 Babson credits).