HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management is a university-level institution which ranks amongst the leading international business schools. The goal of the most traditional business school in German-speaking Europe is to educate effective, responsible, and entrepreneurial business leaders. HHL stands out for its excellent teaching, its clear research focus, its effective transfer of knowledge into practice as well as its outstanding student services. The courses of study include the full-time and part-time Master in Management (MSc) as well as MBA programmes, a doctoral programme and executive education. In April 2004, HHL received the highly respected accreditation by AACSB International. Continuation of accreditation for a further five years was granted in April 2014. The part-time MBA programme is also offered at the study location Cologne. Students can choose whether they want to study the programme in Leipzig or in Cologne. For the weekend courses in Cologne, HHL uses the infrastructure (including the study rooms, library, and cafeteria) of the Hochschule Fresenius.

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management was founded in 1898 as a private business school in Leipzig, Germany. Originally established as the Handelshochschule Leipzig, it aimed to provide high-quality management education tailored to the needs of the region's industry and commerce. Over the years, the institution evolved and expanded its programs, gaining recognition for its rigorous academic standards and strong connection to the business community. In 2004, HHL achieved the status of a state-accredited university, further enhancing its reputation and academic offerings. The school adopted its current name, HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management, to reflect its comprehensive focus on leadership and management education at the postgraduate level. Throughout its history, HHL has maintained a commitment to fostering responsible leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship among its students. The school offers a range of programs, including an MBA, Executive MBA, and Master in Family Business, all designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various industries. HHL is also known for its close ties with businesses and alumni, which provide valuable networking and career opportunities for students. Over more than a century, HHL has grown from a regional business school to an internationally recognized institution, attracting students and faculty from around the world. Its strategic focus on entrepreneurial spirit and social responsibility continues to shape its identity and curriculum, ensuring that graduates are equipped to succeed in competitive global markets. Today, HHL remains a leading institution in management education in Germany and Europe, committed to academic excellence, practical relevance, and the development of responsible business leaders.

Admission requirements at HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management include a completed university degree, preferably a bachelor's degree or equivalent, with proof of academic excellence. Applicants must submit a completed online application form along with a CV, motivation letter, and proof of work experience if available. Additionally, candidates are required to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through TOEFL or IELTS scores, unless they have completed their undergraduate studies in English or in an English-speaking country. Academic transcripts and diplomas must be provided, with certified translations if not originally in English or German. A GMAT or GRE score is recommended but not mandatory, although a high score can strengthen an application. Work experience is valued, especially for MBA program applicants, with a minimum of three years of professional experience preferred. References from previous employers or academic mentors are also important and should be submitted as part of the application package. The admissions committee assesses candidates based on academic performance, professional achievements, leadership potential, motivation, and language skills. Interviews may be conducted, either in person or online, as part of the selection process. The application deadlines vary depending on the program and intake, with main deadlines typically in the spring for the summer semester and in the fall for the winter semester. Applicants are advised to ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline to be considered for admission. The admission process is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance. It is recommended to contact the admissions office for specific advice regarding application procedures and requirements.

Accreditation of HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management is conducted by notable international and national accreditation bodies to ensure high standards of quality in business education. HHL is accredited by AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), one of the most prestigious accrediting organizations in the world, which certifies excellence in management education and rigorous standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student learning outcomes. Additionally, HHL holds accreditation from FIBAA (Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation), a German agency that emphasizes quality assurance in higher education institutions and programs, ensuring compliance with European higher education quality standards. The school's accreditation status confirms its commitment to providing innovative, research-based, and practical management education aligned with global industry requirements. HHL's accreditation by these organizations allows students, employers, and academic partners to be assured of the program's legitimacy, academic rigor, and international recognition. The institution continuously undergoes periodic reviews and assessments to maintain and enhance its accreditation status, reflecting its dedication to educational excellence and continuous improvement. Moreover, HHL is recognized by the German State and the German government, ensuring that it meets national educational quality standards and contributes to the development of competent business professionals. The combination of national and international accreditations underpins HHL's reputation as a leading business school in Germany and Europe, attracting students from around the world who seek a recognized and high-quality management education.

Leipzig offers a compact, high-quality, and exciting lifestyle. It has managed to simultaneously maintain its traditional character while transforming itself into a cosmopolitan city that has attracted companies such as BMW, Porsche, and DHL. It has a reputation as a world-class cultural centre, home of the Gewandhaus Orchestra, the St Thomas Choir, numerous comedy clubs, theatres, and a thriving art scene. With its direct access to parks, rivers, forests, and lakes, Leipzig offers a wide range of outdoor recreation options.

Students are strongly supported by the Departments of Student Affairs and International Relations. Initiatives such as the social club for foreign students, "Freundeskreis Ausländischer Studierender" (FAUST), help new and foreign students to integrate quickly into their new social environment and life at HHL.

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management offers a unique combination of academic excellence, practical relevance, and a strong international focus, making it an attractive choice for prospective students. The university is renowned for its personalized approach to education, with small class sizes that foster close interactions between students and faculty, ensuring tailored support and individual attention. HHL’s curriculum emphasizes entrepreneurial spirit, leadership development, and responsible management, preparing graduates to excel in dynamic global markets. The school’s strong ties to the business community, including partnerships with numerous companies and alumni networks, provide students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and real-world projects. HHL also boasts a diverse student body representing various nationalities and professional backgrounds, enriching the learning environment through cultural exchange and diverse perspectives. The campus is located in Leipzig, a vibrant city known for its innovation, cultural scene, and quality of life, offering students a stimulating environment both academically and socially. HHL’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected throughout its programs and initiatives, aligning education with the needs of a sustainable future. The university’s focus on entrepreneurship is demonstrated through dedicated support channels, such as the HHL Entrepreneurship Center, which helps students develop their startup ideas and fosters an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Additionally, HHL has been recognized for its high return on investment, solid employment rates for graduates, and strong career services that assist students in achieving their professional goals. Overall, the combination of high-quality education, strong industry connections, international orientation, and a supportive academic community makes HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management a compelling choice for students aiming to develop their leadership potential in a global context.