Should I apply to HEC Paris MSc in Marketing in Round 2 without GRE, or wait for Round 3 with my GRE score?What’s better?

Question

P Anuj · Accepted Answer

If your profile is already strong, GPA of 8.0+/10 or top 20% of your class, relevant internships in areas like digital marketing, branding, or market research, and well-written goals in your essays&mdash;it&rsquo;s better to apply in Round 2 without the GRE.
HEC doesn&rsquo;t require a test score for every applicant, and many are admitted based on strong academics and work experience. Round 2 still has more available seats and higher chances of receiving scholarships.
Waiting for Round 3 means fewer spots and limited funding. Unless your GRE score will be above 320 and significantly improve a weak academic background, applying in Round 2 is safer and shows better planning.

Ranjan J · Answer

It depends on how much the GRE can improve your chances&mdash;but the rest of your profile matters more.

If your GRE score is expected to be under 315, it probably won&rsquo;t make a big difference&mdash;go for Round 2.
If you're targeting 325+ and have a GPA below 7.5/10 or come from a lesser-known college, the score might help.
Round 3 is more competitive, and most scholarships are already awarded by then.
Students with internships at places like marketing agencies, FMCG brands, or startups often get in without GRE, especially if their academics are consistent.
One applicant with a GPA of 8.2 and two branding internships got in via Round 2 without submitting any test score.

Unless your GRE will clearly raise a weak profile, applying earlier gives you better chances.