HBS and Kellogg are both elite M7 MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. HBS reports a higher median base salary. HBS offers lower annual tuition, and HBS delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. HBS is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | HBS | Kellogg |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #42026 | #42026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #42024 | #62024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #42025 | #102025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | #82025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $76,410 | $78,276 |
| Median Base Salary | $260,000 | $185,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 751% | 491% |
| Class Size | 930 | 500 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.0% | 20.2% |
| Median GMAT | 740 | 727 |
| 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.
Harvard Business School pioneered the case method of teaching and remains the gold standard for general management education. HBS is the most selective MBA program in the world, producing more Fortune 500 CEOs than any other school. Its case study approach prepares leaders to tackle ambiguous business challenges.
Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern is the birthplace of modern marketing education. Known for its collaborative culture, team-based learning, and strong emphasis on leadership development, Kellogg graduates are highly sought after in consulting and consumer goods industries.
Both are elite M7 programs. HBS delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 751%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
HBS is more selective with a 11.0% acceptance rate, compared to 20.2% for Kellogg.
HBS reports a median base salary of $260,000, while Kellogg reports $185,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
HBS annual tuition is $76,410 and Kellogg is $78,276. HBS offers a 1,866 lower annual cost.
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