GSB and Wharton are both elite M7 MBA programs, but they differ in key areas. GSB holds a stronger US News ranking. Wharton reports a higher median base salary. GSB offers lower annual tuition, and Wharton delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Wharton is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | GSB | Wharton |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #12026 | #22026 |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #12024 | #22024 |
| Financial Times Rank | #22025 | #32025 |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #42025 | #22025 |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $82,455 | $84,830 |
| Median Base Salary | $197,000 | $248,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 497% | 631% |
| Class Size | 436 | 918 |
| Acceptance Rate | 6.1% | 19.2% |
| Median GMAT | 738 | 733 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Keep Comparing
Want context on the metrics above? These guides break down how to read the numbers — rankings methodology, salary distributions, and ROI math.
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.
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Known for its rigorous finance curriculum and extensive alumni network, Wharton consistently ranks at the top of MBA rankings. The school offers unparalleled access to Wall Street and a collaborative learning environment.
Both are elite M7 programs. GSB ranks higher in US News, but Wharton delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 631%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Wharton is more selective with a 19.2% acceptance rate, compared to 6.1% for GSB.
GSB reports a median base salary of $197,000, while Wharton reports $248,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
GSB annual tuition is $82,455 and Wharton is $84,830. GSB offers a 2,375 lower annual cost.
Now see where you rank against these programs
Plug in your GPA, GMAT, and experience to get a live 0–100 competitiveness score.
Tuition and median salary tell half the story. Our ROI calculator shows your personal payback period in 30 seconds — with your actual pre-MBA salary.
Calculate My ROI → No thanks, I’m done comparingRankings updates, salary benchmarks, and admissions insights — free, every week.
No thanks