IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program

Overview

The Hilti STEM Scholars Program is a merit scholarship at IMD Business School in Lausanne, supported by the Hilti Group. It gives CHF 50,000 toward the one-year IMD MBA to candidates with a STEM background or a demonstrated passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, who want to move into leadership roles where that expertise matters.

The award is built for people who believe technical fields are central to building a sustainable, inclusive future and who can bring that perspective into the MBA classroom. Selectors look for a strong academic and professional record, international exposure and clear ambition to lead in STEM-related areas. Part of the assessment happens during the IMD admission day, where your profile is evaluated alongside other candidates.

Like the other IMD MBA scholarships, the Hilti award is applied for inside the MBA application form and cannot be combined with other IMD scholarships. It sits within a programme where scholarship support is common, so it is worth applying even though each award is competitive.

Key Facts at a Glance

Detail	Information
Funding Body	IMD Business School (Hilti)
Host Country	Switzerland
Degree Levels	MBA
Value	CHF 50,000 toward IMD MBA programme costs; not combinable with other scholarships
Deadline	Open throughout 2026 until allocated; apply via the IMD MBA application form
Eligible Nationalities	Open worldwide
Official Website	IMD MBA application

Eligibility Criteria

STEM Background or Passion

The scholarship is for candidates with a STEM academic background or a demonstrated passion for STEM fields, who see technical expertise as central to a sustainable and inclusive future.

Academic and Professional Record

You need an excellent academic and professional record, with international exposure and clear ambition to lead in STEM-focused roles.

Admission Requirement

You must be applying to or admitted to the IMD MBA, since the scholarship is assessed within the MBA application and partly during the admission day.

Exclusions

The award cannot be combined with other IMD scholarships, so you would receive this or another award, not both.

What the Scholarship Covers

• CHF 50,000 toward the costs of the IMD MBA programme.
• Recognition within IMD's partnership with the Hilti Group.
• A place in an MBA cohort where scholarship support is widespread.

How to Apply

1. Apply to the IMD MBA: Start the IMD MBA admissions application, which contains the scholarship.
2. Complete the scholarship section: Fill in the Hilti STEM Scholars section within the MBA application form.
3. Show your STEM credentials: Present your STEM background or passion and how it shapes your leadership goals.
4. Evidence your record: Document your academic and professional achievements and international experience.
5. Prepare for the admission day: Be ready for the assessment that takes place during the IMD admission day.
6. Apply early in the cycle: Submit while the award is open, since it is allocated during the year.

Required Documents

• Completed IMD MBA application, including the scholarship section.
• Curriculum vitae highlighting STEM background and leadership.
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• GMAT or GRE results.
• Proof of English proficiency where required.
• Reference letters as specified by the MBA application.

Key Dates & Deadlines

The Hilti STEM Scholars Program is open throughout 2026 until it is allocated, with no single closing date. Part of the selection happens on the IMD admission day, so your timing depends on when you complete your MBA application and admission interview. Apply early in the cycle and confirm the current status on the IMD MBA scholarships page.

Tips for a Strong Application

What helps

• Make the link between your STEM expertise and your leadership ambitions explicit.
• Give concrete examples of technical work and its impact.
• Prepare thoroughly for the admission day, since it feeds the scholarship assessment.
• Apply early, since the award is allocated during the year.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Claiming STEM passion without evidence from your studies or career.
• Assuming you can combine it with another IMD scholarship.
• Underpreparing for the admission day assessment.
• Applying late when the single award may already be given out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program?

It is a CHF 50,000 merit scholarship toward the IMD MBA for candidates with a STEM academic background or passion and ambition to lead in STEM fields, supported by the Hilti Group.

How much is the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program worth?

CHF 50,000 toward the costs of the IMD MBA programme.

What is the deadline for the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program?

It is open throughout 2026 until allocated, rather than closing on a fixed date, so apply early in your MBA application cycle.

Who is eligible for the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program?

Candidates applying to or admitted to the IMD MBA with a STEM background or demonstrated passion, an excellent academic and professional record, international exposure and leadership ambition in STEM.

Does the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program require a STEM degree?

A STEM academic background helps, but a demonstrated passion for STEM fields is also accepted, supported by your record and goals.

How is the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program assessed?

Selectors weigh your application and assess your profile partly during the IMD admission day.

Can the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program be combined with other awards?

No. It cannot be combined with other IMD scholarships.

How do I apply for the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program?

Complete the Hilti STEM Scholars section within the IMD MBA application form, document your STEM credentials, and apply early in the cycle.

Is the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program open to international applicants?

Yes. It is open worldwide to candidates applying to the one-year IMD MBA in Lausanne.

What documents do I need for the IMD MBA Hilti STEM Scholars Program?

Your MBA application materials plus a CV highlighting STEM and leadership, transcripts, GMAT or GRE results, language proof where required and reference letters.