Why does INSEAD have a language policy?

At INSEAD, we believe strongly in the importance of an international outlook. The ability to communicate in more than one language will give you a competitive advantage in the global marketplace and enable you to work effectively across multiple cultures.

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What is the language of instruction?

English is the language of instruction at INSEAD.  You need to be fluent in English to apply to the programme. 

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Do I need to speak French?

No.  English is the working language on both campuses.

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How do I prove fluency in English?

If English is not your native language, you can demonstrate fluency by one of two methods. If you possess a full university degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) where all courses were taught exclusively in English, we will accept your degree as proof of your fluency in English. Otherwise you may take one of the following English language tests (the required minimum score is in brackets): TOEFL (iTOEFL: 105, Computer-Based: 260, Paper-Based, 620), TOEIC (950), IELTS (7), CPE (B).

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English is not my native language, but I have been living and working in an English speaking country for many years.  Do I still need to provide additional proof of fluency in English?

Yes.  Living and working in an English-speaking environment is not accepted as proof of fluency in English on its own. If you possess a full university degree (undergraduate or postgraduate) where all courses were taught exclusively in English, we will accept your degree as proof of your fluency in English.  Otherwise you may take one of the following English language tests (the required minimum score is in brackets): TOEFL (iTOEFL: 105, Computer-Based: 260, Paper-Based, 620), TOEIC (950), IELTS (7), CPE (B). 

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How many languages must I speak in addition to English in order to be admitted?

If English is your native language, you must possess at least a practical knowledge of a second language (referred to as 'entry' language) at the start of the programme.  If you are a non-native English speaker, your native language will fulfil this requirement.

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English is my native language.  When and how do I certify my entry language?

If you are joining the programme in September, you will need to provide certification of your second language no later then 1 June.  If you are joining the programme in January, you will need to provide certification of your second language no later then 1 November.  Accepted certification is listed in the Language Policy.

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Will I need to demonstrate knowledge of a third language before I graduate?

Yes.  You will need to possess at least a basic knowledge of a third language (referred to as 'exit language') in order to graduate. 

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When and how do I certify my exit language?

You many certify your exit language before, at the start of, or during the programme.  If you already possess at least a basic knowledge of a third language, we recommend you certify your exit language by taking a language test during the first week of the programme. If you need to learn a third language, you can do so during the programme.  Language instruction is available on both campuses throughout the year.

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Are there any restrictions on the choice of entry and exit languages?

Yes.  Both entry and exit languages must be officially recognised by the government of a country.  Entry and exit languages must also be sufficiently different from each other. More details are available in the Language Policy.

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What do 'fluent', 'practical' and 'basic' knowledge mean, exactly?

'Fluent' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate precisely and effectively in complex situations.

'Practical' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate about familiar matters regularly encountered at work, school, and in leisure activities. 

'Basic' knowledge is defined as the ability to communicate in a direct exchange of information in the simple present, future and past tenses. 

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Where can I learn more?

For more detailed information, please consult our Language Policy.

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