Booth and McDonough 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. McDonough offers lower annual tuition, and McDonough delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Booth is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Booth | McDonough |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #32026 | #312026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #72024 | #212024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | #422025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | #342025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $80,040 | $64,350 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $162,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 493% | 529% |
| Class Size | 614 | 262 |
| Acceptance Rate | 20.4% | 31.0% |
| Median GMAT | 730 | 700 |
| 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.
Georgetown McDonough sits in the nation's capital, offering unmatched access to government, policy, international organizations, and nonprofits. The school is ideal for those interested in the intersection of business and public policy.
Booth is a top M7 program; McDonough is a highly ranked T15 school. Booth ranks higher in US News, but McDonough delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 529%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Booth is more selective with a 20.4% acceptance rate, compared to 31.0% for McDonough.
Booth reports a median base salary of $190,000, while McDonough reports $162,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Booth annual tuition is $80,040 and McDonough is $64,350. McDonough offers a 15,690 lower annual cost.
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