Olin 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. Olin offers lower annual tuition, and Olin delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Olin is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Olin | GSB |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #252025 | #12026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #242024 | #12024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #522025 | #22025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #462025 | #42025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $63,250 | $82,455 |
| Median Base Salary | $155,000 | $197,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 513% | 497% |
| Class Size | 155 | 436 |
| Acceptance Rate | 32.0% | 6.1% |
| Median GMAT | 694 | 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.
WashU Olin offers a rigorous, customizable MBA with strengths in healthcare, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. The school's strong corporate connections in the Midwest and intimate class sizes provide a personalized educational experience.
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; Olin is a highly ranked T15 school. GSB ranks higher in US News, but Olin delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 513%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Olin is more selective with a 32.0% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
Olin reports a median base salary of $155,000, while GSB reports $197,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Olin annual tuition is $63,250 and GSB is $82,455. Olin offers a 19,205 lower annual cost.
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