Kelley School of Business and Johnson are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Johnson holds a stronger US News ranking. Johnson reports a higher median base salary. Kelley School of Business offers lower annual tuition, and Johnson delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Kelley School of Business is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Kelley School of Business | Johnson |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | — | #152026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | — | #182024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #272025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #222025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $64,000 | $71,940 |
| Median Base Salary | $145,000 | $170,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 466% | 491% |
| Class Size | — | 297 |
| Acceptance Rate | 24.0% | 27.0% |
| Median GMAT | 670 | 710 |
| 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.
Full Kelley School of Business profile → Calculate Kelley School of Business ROI →
Cornell Johnson sits within a research university renowned for hospitality, tech, and real estate. Johnson offers immersion learning through its semester-long deep dives into specific industries. Its Tech MBA program in New York City is a unique offering.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Johnson ranks higher in US News, but Johnson delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 491%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Kelley School of Business is more selective with a 24.0% acceptance rate, compared to 27.0% for Johnson.
Kelley School of Business reports a median base salary of $145,000, while Johnson reports $170,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Kelley School of Business annual tuition is $64,000 and Johnson is $71,940. Kelley School of Business offers a 7,940 lower annual cost.
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