Booth and Columbia are both elite M7 MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Booth holds a stronger US News ranking. Booth reports a higher median base salary. Booth offers lower annual tuition, and Booth delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Columbia is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Booth | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #32026 | #72026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #72024 | #92024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | #52025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | #72025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $80,040 | $82,584 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $190,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 493% | 475% |
| Class Size | 614 | 850 |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.4% | 16.5% |
| Median GMAT | 730 | 729 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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Want context on the metrics above? These guides break down how to read the numbers — rankings methodology, salary distributions, and ROI math.
Chicago Booth is renowned for its flexible curriculum and analytical approach to business education. With a focus on data-driven decision-making and economic theory, Booth produces graduates who excel in consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship. The school is known for its intellectual rigor and diverse student body.
Columbia Business School leverages its New York City location to offer unmatched access to Wall Street, media, and real estate industries. Known for its value investing curriculum and strong ties to the financial industry, Columbia attracts ambitious professionals from around the world.
Both are elite M7 programs. Booth ranks higher in US News, but Booth delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 493%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Columbia is more selective with a 16.5% acceptance rate, compared to 20.4% for Booth.
Booth reports a median base salary of $190,000, while Columbia reports $190,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Booth annual tuition is $80,040 and Columbia is $82,584. Booth offers a 2,544 lower annual cost.
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