HBS and Kenan-Flagler Business School are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. HBS holds a stronger US News ranking. HBS reports a higher median base salary. Kenan-Flagler Business School offers lower annual tuition, and HBS delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. HBS is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | HBS | Kenan-Flagler Business School |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #42026 | — |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #42024 | — |
| Financial Times Rank | #42025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $76,410 | $72,000 |
| Median Base Salary | $260,000 | $148,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 751% | 414% |
| Class Size | 930 | — |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.0% | 20.0% |
| Median GMAT | 740 | 685 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
Full Kenan-Flagler Business School profile → Calculate Kenan-Flagler Business School ROI →
HBS is a top M7 program; Kenan-Flagler Business School is a highly ranked T15 school. HBS ranks higher in US News, but 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 20.0% for Kenan-Flagler Business School.
HBS reports a median base salary of $260,000, while Kenan-Flagler Business School reports $148,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
HBS annual tuition is $76,410 and Kenan-Flagler Business School is $72,000. Kenan-Flagler Business School offers a 4,410 lower annual cost.
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