I'd advise you to go for the most reputable program you can get into. A name goes a long way in recruiting, trust me! It's hard for a reason: they want to see that you care and want this a lot. In the end it's up to you, but that's just my take!

Hi Dana,

Thank you for your reply! A name does go a long way indeed - the trouble is, I don't know whether the name of the institution carries more weight than the programme? Even if you do a less prestigious course at ESSEC, say - you were still at ESSEC. Or would it be more impressive to say that you did a grande ecole programme, even if people haven't heard of the place?

I know that there's a massive difference between the top 4 institutions and the rest in France - but at the moment, I think it unlikely that I will stay and build my career in France; I will probably base my life in the UK, even if I get the opportunity to go and live in other countries for a few years at a time. People here know about 'grande ecole' but I think very few would actually know the names of even the top 4 institutions...

What do you think?

I guess I'm the type of person who enjoys the challenge, first off Yes, the school name itself will go a long way. But from my experience, your peers will make or break how you feel at the end of the program. Usually, more quality people will be enrolled at better masters and you get better profs with more industry connections.

Thanks for your reply again - that's a very good point, something I'd already thought about but then forgot amidst all the other factors that I was trying to consider. Thanks!

Thanks so much for your input - and yes, I agree, grand ecole programme at HEC would be awesome!!
I am applying to it, but my dilemma is over my insurance plans... say, should I go for a non-grande ecole programme at EMLYON or a grande ecole programme at Rennes?
Any thoughts?