HBS and Carlson School of Management are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. HBS holds a stronger US News ranking. HBS reports a higher median base salary. Carlson School of Management offers lower annual tuition, and HBS delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. HBS is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | HBS | Carlson School of Management |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #42026 | — |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #42024 | — |
| Financial Times Rank | #42025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #52025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $76,410 | $66,000 |
| Median Base Salary | $260,000 | $145,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 751% | 449% |
| Class Size | 930 | — |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.0% | 24.0% |
| Median GMAT | 740 | 670 |
| Average GPA | — | — |
Green = better value per metric. Rankings: lower rank number = better. Salary & ROI: higher = better. Acceptance rate & tuition: lower = better.
Want context on the metrics above? These guides break down how to read the numbers — rankings methodology, salary distributions, and ROI math.
Harvard Business School pioneered the case method of teaching and remains the gold standard for general management education. HBS is the most selective MBA program in the world, producing more Fortune 500 CEOs than any other school. Its case study approach prepares leaders to tackle ambiguous business challenges.
Full Carlson School of Management profile → Calculate Carlson School of Management ROI →
HBS is a top M7 program; Carlson School of Management is a highly ranked T15 school. HBS ranks higher in US News, but HBS delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 751%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
HBS is more selective with a 11.0% acceptance rate, compared to 24.0% for Carlson School of Management.
HBS reports a median base salary of $260,000, while Carlson School of Management reports $145,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
HBS annual tuition is $76,410 and Carlson School of Management is $66,000. Carlson School of Management offers a 10,410 lower annual cost.
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