Foster and Wharton are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Wharton holds a stronger US News ranking. Wharton reports a higher median base salary. Foster offers lower annual tuition, and Wharton delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Foster is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Foster | Wharton |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #262026 | #22026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #292024 | #22024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #32025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #22025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $67,596 | $84,830 |
| Median Base Salary | $145,000 | $248,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 436% | 631% |
| Class Size | 204 | 918 |
| Acceptance Rate | 19.0% | 19.2% |
| Median GMAT | 700 | 733 |
| 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.
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Known for its rigorous finance curriculum and extensive alumni network, Wharton consistently ranks at the top of MBA rankings. The school offers unparalleled access to Wall Street and a collaborative learning environment.
Wharton is a top M7 program; Foster is a highly ranked T15 school. Wharton ranks higher in US News, but Wharton delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 631%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Foster is more selective with a 19.0% acceptance rate, compared to 19.2% for Wharton.
Foster reports a median base salary of $145,000, while Wharton reports $248,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Foster annual tuition is $67,596 and Wharton is $84,830. Foster offers a 17,234 lower annual cost.
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