Support for International Students at Istec

Can you share some concrete examples of international collaborations that have a significant impact on student education and experience? How do these partnerships play out in practice?

I can give you two concrete examples: one regarding the arrival of international students and the other regarding students wishing to spend a semester abroad. For the first, we have a partnership with the IUC (Université de La Côte) in Douala, Cameroon: we offer students a two-year preparatory program that allows them to enter our third-year Bachelor’s degree program, which is a joint degree with the university. Regarding the second point, during their third ^year at the Grande Ecole, our students spend a semester abroad: the flagship destination is Seville, Spain, at EUSA, where students complete their second semester and earn 30 ECTS credits to qualify for their Master’s 1.

In terms of international recruitment, how would you describe the profiles and expectations of foreign candidates who choose ISTEC? How have these profiles evolved in recent years?

International students who choose ISTEC are primarily motivated by a career-oriented education in France, where work-study programs and internships are a major driver of skill development. They seek a school whose programs are recognized by the French government, conferring Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees—a mark of academic rigor and credibility in the job market. ISTEC also attracts applicants who value the international recognition of their degree and the strength of the school’s academic partnerships. Finally, ISTEC’s international student body is diverse and multifaceted: it is not limited to French-speaking countries, thanks to our programs taught in English, which allow us to welcome students from various regions who wish to join a school that is open to the world and focused on professional success. Today, they represent 30% of our students at ISTEC.

Can you explain the admission process for international students? What criteria and procedures apply specifically to this category of applicants?

The admission of international students to ISTEC is based on a rigorous and transparent evaluation. It includes a review of the applicant’s academic background, a motivational interview, and, where applicable, verification of language proficiency (French or English, depending on the chosen program). ISTEC pays particular attention to the coherence of the applicant’s career plan, their academic level, and their commitment to an international program. At the same time, for the countries concerned, the school strictly adheres to official Campus France procedures, thereby ensuring a process that complies with national standards and facilitating administrative procedures and visa applications.

The integration of international students also requires tailored support. What services or initiatives does ISTEC offer to facilitate their academic, cultural, and administrative adjustment?

The integration of international students is a real priority for ISTEC. Beyond administrative support (housing, residence permits, health coverage), the school implements specific initiatives to promote their academic success and personal fulfillment.

A central role is played by the “International Student Association,” an organization run by and for international students, which organizes cultural activities, integration events, and tutoring initiatives that foster interaction and solidarity between French and international students. This commitment is recognized nationally through the “Bienvenue en France” label, awarded by Campus France, which attests to the quality of the welcome extended to international students. This label particularly highlights the clarity of information provided prior to arrival, the quality of administrative and academic support, as well as the breadth of social and cultural integration programs.

For international students, particularly those from Morocco, entering the job market in France can be complex due to the administrative procedures related to residence permits, notably the “Talent Passport – Recent Graduate.” How does ISTEC support them in their transition to the job market after graduation? What partnerships or concrete measures are in place to facilitate this step?

ISTEC actively supports its international students in their transition into the French job market. This support is based on several strategic levers, notably the ISTEC network, which, thanks to its numerous partner companies and its deep roots in the professional ecosystem, facilitates access to internship, work-study, and job opportunities. To further strengthen this momentum, the Career and Alumni Services department provides dedicated support to guide students through the job search process, interview preparation, and highlighting their profiles in the French and international job markets. Graduates also benefit from the strength of the ISTEC alumni network, a true asset for professional integration.

ISTEC is also connected to France Alumni, an international network led by Campus France, enabling international students and graduates to build strong ties with professionals and alumni around the world. Degree recognition is also a key factor: ISTEC’s programs, accredited by the French government and listed in the RNCP, confer Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, ensuring their credibility with employers.

Finally, the school assists international students with administrative procedures after graduation. In particular, graduates can apply for the Provisional Residence Permit (APS), a visa valid for up to six months, allowing them to look for their first job or prepare for the transition to a Talent Passport – Recent Graduate.

Work-study programs are a major driver of employment for business schools. Can international students benefit from it under the same conditions as French students? And to date, what percentage of your international students are enrolled in a work-study program at ISTEC?

Work-study programs are a fundamental pillar of ISTEC’s educational model and a major asset for professional integration. However, French regulations limit access to this program for international students. First-year students generally cannot enter into a work-study contract during their first year in France, unless they are directly admitted to a Master 1 or Master 2 program

To support its international students, ISTEC offers comprehensive assistance. This includes help with administrative procedures, whether for residence permits or work authorizations. Students also benefit from support provided by ISTEC’s Corporate Relations Department, which connects them with a wide network of partners and shares numerous work-study opportunities. The mobilization of the ISTEC network and the alumni service is also part of this support. Finally, coaching workshops are offered to help students prepare their CVs, cover letters, and interviews.

Thanks to this structured system, a large proportion of international students successfully secure work-study positions, whether in roles conducted in French or English, depending on their language skills and career goals.