Kelley and Smeal are two highly regarded MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. Kelley holds a stronger US News ranking. Kelley reports a higher median base salary. Smeal offers lower annual tuition, and Kelley delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Kelley is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Kelley | Smeal |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #212026 | #372026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #232024 | — |
| Financial Times Rank | #502025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #422025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $53,754 | $45,994 |
| Median Base Salary | $152,000 | $115,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 607% | 525% |
| Class Size | 203 | 80 |
| Acceptance Rate | 35.0% | 37.0% |
| Median GMAT | 688 | 652 |
| 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.
Indiana Kelley offers one of the best ROI values in MBA education. Known for its strong marketing and finance programs, Kelley's collaborative culture and extensive corporate partnerships provide strong career outcomes at an affordable price.
The Smeal College of Business at Penn State offers one of the best ROI values in MBA education, particularly for candidates targeting finance, supply chain management, and consumer goods. Penn State's massive alumni network (700,000+ members globally) provides unparalleled corporate access. Smeal's intensive cohort model and case-based curriculum develop collaborative leaders valued by recruiting firms across the Northeast and Midwest.
Both are highly ranked MBA programs. Kelley ranks higher in US News, but Kelley delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 607%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Kelley is more selective with a 35.0% acceptance rate, compared to 37.0% for Smeal.
Kelley reports a median base salary of $152,000, while Smeal reports $115,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Kelley annual tuition is $53,754 and Smeal is $45,994. Smeal offers a 7,760 lower annual cost.
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