Johnson 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. Johnson offers lower annual tuition, and GSB delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Johnson is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Johnson | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #152026 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #182024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #272025 | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #222025 | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $71,940 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $170,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 491% | 497% |
| Class Size | 297 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 27.0% | 6.1% |
| Median GMAT | 710 | 738 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
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.
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; Johnson 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.
Johnson is more selective with a 27.0% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
Johnson reports a median base salary of $170,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Johnson annual tuition is $71,940 and GSB is $82,455. Johnson offers a 10,515 lower annual cost.
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