Foster and GSB are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. GSB holds a stronger US News ranking. GSB reports a higher median base salary. Foster offers lower annual tuition, and GSB delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Foster is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Foster | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #262026 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #292024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $67,596 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $145,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 436% | 497% |
| Class Size | 204 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 19.0% | 6.1% |
| Median GMAT | 700 | 738 |
| 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.
The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington sits at the epicentre of the Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks ecosystem. With one of the highest percentages of tech-sector placements among Top 30 programs, Foster is the go-to MBA for professionals targeting Pacific Northwest tech and management consulting. Its selective 19% acceptance rate and strong value proposition—especially at in-state tuition—make it one of the most underrated programs in the country.
Stanford Graduate School of Business is the most selective MBA program globally, with an acceptance rate below 7%. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, GSB is the top choice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. Its small class size fosters deep relationships and personalized education.
GSB is a top M7 program; Foster is a highly ranked T15 school. GSB ranks higher in US News, but GSB delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 497%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Foster is more selective with a 19.0% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
Foster reports a median base salary of $145,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Foster annual tuition is $67,596 and GSB is $82,455. Foster offers a 14,859 lower annual cost.
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