Succeed in Parcoursup and SESAME 2026: Complete guide for applicants

Entering higher education is a pivotal milestone that requires thorough preparation and a clear strategy. For high school seniors preparing for their baccalauréat or students considering a change of direction, admission to a top international business school depends primarily on the Parcoursup platform and, depending on the chosen program, on specific admission procedures.

Parcoursup est la plateforme nationale destinée principalement aux élèves préparant ou titulaires d’un baccalauréat français (ou diplôme équivalent obtenu en France). Les candidats titulaires d’un diplôme étranger peuvent relever d’une procédure d’admission spécifique.

Admission procedures for SKEMA Post-Bac programmes

To avoid any confusion, here are the access routes for the different programs:

• Global BBA: admission via Parcoursup + SESAME Entrance Exam
• Bachelor in Management & Engineering Sciences: admission via Parcoursup
• ESDHEM: admission via Parcoursup

The SESAME Entrance Exam applies only to the Global BBA programme at SKEMA Business School (for September intake).

Introduction to Parcoursup and the SESAME entrance exam

What is Parcoursup?

Parcoursup is the national platform for managing applications and access to higher education in France. This platform centralizes your application file, academic records, and admission offers from various institutions. It is where each candidate must submit their choices to shape their post-bac pathway. The procedure is designed to simplify the process, but it requires careful attention to deadlines

Overview of the SESAME entrance exam

The SESAME Entrance Exam brings together several leading management schools offering international post-bac programs. It is a selective exam system combining digital written tests and oral interviews. For candidates, it provides a major simplification: the exam counts as a single multi-application choice on the platform, giving access to multiple high-level programs.

At SKEMA Business School, the SESAME Entrance Exam applies exclusively to admission to the Global BBA program. Other post-bac programs at SKEMA do not go through this exam.

Processus d’inscription : comprendre le calendrier Parcoursup

Signing up on Parcoursup

To begin your journey, you must create your personal account. Use a valid and long-term email address to ensure you don’t miss any crucial information or notifications regarding your admission offers. Your application will reflect your seriousness: every element, from your academic transcripts to teacher recommendations, will be carefully reviewed.
 

Key dates in the Parcoursup 2026 calendar

• 19 January, 2026: Platform opens – period to register and submit your choices. You may select up to 10 choices.
• 12 March, 2026: Final day to submit your choices (maximum of 10).
• 1 April, 2026: Last day to complete your application file and confirm each choice.
• 2 June, 2026: Start of the main admission phase (responses from institutions).
• 11 June, 2026: Start of the complementary phase; the full procedure concludes on 10 September, 2026.

Specific Registration for the SESAME Entrance Exam (Global BBA only)

Only candidates for the Global BBA program must complete an additional registration on the SESAME Entrance Exam website, in addition to their Parcoursup application.

This registration includes:

• Payment of the exam fee
• Administrative validation
• Access to information about the tests

SKEMA Post-Bac programmes accessible via Parcoursup

SKEMA propose des formations diversifiées et sélectives pour répondre aux ambitions variées des candidats. Voici les trois parcours majeurs accessibles :
 

SKEMA offers diverse and selective programs designed to meet the varied ambitions of applicants. Here are the three main pathways available:

1. Global BBA
   The Global BBA is a Bac+4 accredited degree for students seeking full international immersion. With campuses on multiple continents, the programme combines study periods in France and abroad (USA, Brazil, China). It is the ideal pathway to develop a global perspective on management.
   [Learn more about the Global BBA]
2. Bachelor in Management and Engineering Sciences
   This hybrid programme is a major innovation. In partnership with Centrale Lille – ITEEM, a renowned engineering school, it offers a double degree. This programme is especially suited for students with a scientific background who want to master the levers of business. Admission is also via the national Parcoursup platform.
   [Discover the Bachelor in Management and Engineering Sciences]
3. ESDHEM (Economics-Management and Private Law)
   The ESDHEM programme is unique, combining a state-recognized university bachelor’s degree with an intensive preparatory program for parallel entrance exams to elite schools. This pathway secures your studies while aiming for excellence in AST (Admission Sur Titre) competitions to enter a Grande École programme.
   [View the ESDHEM programme]

Preparing for the tests: strategies for success

The written tests are the central element of the initial selection process. 

They are conducted remotely and require a stable internet connection.

• Understanding and Contemporary Issues: Analysis of current affairs and ability to synthesize information.
• Mathematics and Logic: Tests of speed and numerical reasoning.
• Modern Languages (English + a second foreign language): Essential for a school with a strong international focus.
   

Oral exams and admissions committee

Once the admissibility results are published, shortlisted candidates proceed to the oral exams. This is where your motivation must stand out. The admissions committee aims to understand your personality, your goals, and your ability to integrate into a multicultural environment.

Practical tips to maximise your chances

1. Crafting a Strong Motivation Letter
   The motivation letter (also called the statement of purpose or motivated study plan) is one of the most closely reviewed elements by admissions officers. Avoid general statements. Explain clearly why you have chosen SKEMA Business School specifically, and how your academic and personal background aligns with the school’s values.
2. Managing the Response Phase (May – July)
   Starting May 27, the pressure increases. Here is how to respond effectively to admission offers
   - If you receive a “Yes”: You have a limited time to accept. If it is your first choice, confirm your decision definitively.
   - If you are on the waiting list: Don’t panic. Many places become available each day. Your position on the waiting list is the key indicator to monitor.
   - If you receive multiple offers: You may keep only one offer at a time. Be considerate of other candidates by quickly declining programs you no longer wish to join.
3. Mental Preparation and Discipline
   Success does not rely solely on your baccalauréat grades. Consistency across your entire application and targeted preparation for the entrance exams will make the difference. Practice on the SESAME preparation platform to become familiar with the question formats and testing conditions.

Conclusion: your future starts here

Successfully navigating the Parcoursup procedure and the SESAME Entrance Exam requires organization and forward planning. By following this guide, you put yourself in the best possible position to receive an admission offer from SKEMA Business School. Whether you choose the Global BBA, the Bachelor in Management and Engineering Sciences, or ESDHEM, your journey into higher education is in good hands.

Additional Resources for Your Success:

• Access the official Parcoursup website
• Consult the official SESAME 2026 regulations (PDF format in French)
• Contact: For any questions about our programmes, feel free to contact our admissions team via your candidate portal.