Jones 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. Jones offers lower annual tuition, and GSB delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Jones is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Jones | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #282026 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #342024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | — | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | — | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $72,560 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $153,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 427% | 497% |
| Class Size | 130 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 33.0% | 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.
The Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University is Houston's premier MBA program and one of the top energy MBA programs in the world. Its small class size (~130) ensures exceptional faculty access and tight alumni networks. Jones graduates excel in energy, consulting, and finance, with strong placement at energy majors (ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron), investment banks, and McKinsey/BCG/Bain. Located in the Texas Medical Center, it also has growing healthcare and biotech placement.
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; Jones 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.
Jones is more selective with a 33.0% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
Jones reports a median base salary of $153,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Jones annual tuition is $72,560 and GSB is $82,455. Jones offers a 9,895 lower annual cost.
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