Initial Training vs. Continuing Education

Understanding the Difference Between Initial Training and Continuing Education

1. Initial Training Programs managed by the Cergy campus fall under initial training. Admitted candidates who enroll in these programs have full-time student status. They receive their student card at the start of the academic year and have a valid enrollment certificate for the school year.

Initial training is not eligible for benefits from Pôle Emploi (French employment agency) and cannot be funded through a CPF (Compte Personnel de Formation/Professional Training Account). However, it is possible to receive partial or full financial support (not to be confused with apprenticeship) for tuition fees from a company or organization. For more information, please refer to our FAQ on Financial Support to find out which documents to provide.

Please note: The Association Groupe ESSEC (AGE) is a non-profit association under the French law of 1901. Due to its status, AGE does not issue invoices to students but rather tuition fee notices. The student’s account statement shows the tuition fees (excluding VAT), payments received, and outstanding payments.

2. Continuing Education The La Défense campus offers continuing education programs ("executive education") designed for individuals who graduated more than 2 years ago, are already employed, or have professional experience.
   
   

Continuing education is invoiced with VAT and can be funded through CPF, Pôle Emploi, or a company—particularly the participant’s employer.