McCombs 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. McCombs offers lower annual tuition, and McCombs delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. McCombs is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | McCombs | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #182026 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #152024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #352025 | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #302025 | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $56,034 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $168,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 650% | 497% |
| Class Size | 261 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 28.5% | 6.1% |
| Median GMAT | 706 | 738 |
| 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.
UT Austin McCombs offers one of the best value propositions in MBA education. Located in the booming Austin tech scene, McCombs has strong placements in consulting, tech, and energy. The school is known for its Plus program and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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; McCombs is a highly ranked T15 school. GSB ranks higher in US News, but McCombs delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 650%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
McCombs is more selective with a 28.5% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
McCombs reports a median base salary of $168,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
McCombs annual tuition is $56,034 and GSB is $82,455. McCombs offers a 26,421 lower annual cost.
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