See how Foster compares with other leading MBA programs on the metrics that matter most.
The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington sits at the epicentre of the Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks ecosystem. With one of the highest percentages of tech-sector placements among Top 30 programs, Foster is the go-to MBA for professionals targeting Pacific Northwest tech and management consulting. Its selective 19% acceptance rate and strong value proposition—especially at in-state tuition—make it one of the most underrated programs in the country. Compare Foster vs Haas →
With a class size of 204 students, Foster offers a small, intimate learning environment. The program's 19.0% acceptance rate makes it a highly competitive program. See Foster vs Anderson side by side →
Graduates report a median starting salary of $145,000, yielding an estimated 5-year ROI of approximately 436% after accounting for two years of tuition at $67,596 per year. Compare ROI and salary outcomes vs Jones →
Where recent graduates go after completing the MBA.
Source: school employment data (2024).
See your personal payback period and 10-year earnings differential for Foster.
Where recent graduates go geographically after completing the MBA.
Source: UW Foster MBA Employment Report 2024 (2024).
How Foster ranks according to each major business school ranking.
| Source | US News | BBW |
|---|---|---|
| Rank | #26 | #29 |
| Year | 2026 | 2024 |
Track how Foster's ranking has changed over time in each major publication.
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2026 | #26— |
| 2025 | #26— |
| 2024 | #26▼ 3 |
| 2023 | #23▲ 1 |
| 2022 | #24▼ 2 |
| 2021 | #22▲ 1 |
| 2020 | #23— |
| Year | Rank |
|---|---|
| 2024 | #29▼ 1 |
| 2022 | #28▼ 2 |
| 2020 | #26— |
Rankings data compiled from official publications. Global rankings (FT, QS) include international business schools, so positions may differ from US-only lists.
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