Booth and McCombs 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. McCombs offers lower annual tuition, and McCombs delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Booth is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Booth | McCombs |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #32026 | #182026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #72024 | #152024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | #352025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | #302025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $80,040 | $56,034 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $168,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 493% | 650% |
| Class Size | 614 | 261 |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.4% | 28.5% |
| Median GMAT | 730 | 706 |
| 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.
UT Austin McCombs offers one of the best value propositions in MBA education. Located in the booming Austin tech scene, McCombs has strong placements in consulting, tech, and energy. The school is known for its Plus program and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Booth is a top M7 program; McCombs is a highly ranked T15 school. Booth ranks higher in US News, but McCombs delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 650%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Booth is more selective with a 20.4% acceptance rate, compared to 28.5% for McCombs.
Booth reports a median base salary of $190,000, while McCombs reports $168,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Booth annual tuition is $80,040 and McCombs is $56,034. McCombs offers a 24,006 lower annual cost.
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