Booth and McDonough School of Business are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, 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. McDonough School of Business is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Booth | McDonough School of Business |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #32026 | — |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #72024 | — |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $80,040 | $84,800 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $158,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 493% | 366% |
| Class Size | 614 | — |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.4% | 17.0% |
| Median GMAT | 730 | 695 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
Full McDonough School of Business profile → Calculate McDonough School of Business ROI →
Booth is a top M7 program; McDonough School of Business is a highly ranked T15 school. 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.
McDonough School of Business is more selective with a 17.0% acceptance rate, compared to 20.4% for Booth.
Booth reports a median base salary of $190,000, while McDonough School of Business reports $158,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Booth annual tuition is $80,040 and McDonough School of Business is $84,800. Booth offers a 4,760 lower annual cost.
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