Columbia and Krannert School of Management are two of the most competitive MBA programs in the country, but they differ in key areas. Columbia holds a stronger US News ranking. Columbia reports a higher median base salary. Krannert School of Management offers lower annual tuition, and Columbia delivers the stronger 5-year ROI. Columbia is the more selective program by acceptance rate.
| Metric | Columbia | Krannert School of Management |
|---|---|---|
| Rankings | ||
| US News Rank | #72026 | — |
| Bloomberg BBW Rank | #92024 | — |
| Financial Times Rank | #52025 | — |
| QS Global MBA Rank | #72025 | — |
| Admissions & Financials | ||
| Annual Tuition | $82,584 | $62,000 |
| Median Base Salary | $190,000 | $142,000 |
| 5-Year ROI | 475% | 473% |
| Class Size | 850 | — |
| Acceptance Rate | 16.5% | 25.0% |
| Median GMAT | 729 | 665 |
| 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.
Columbia Business School leverages its New York City location to offer unmatched access to Wall Street, media, and real estate industries. Known for its value investing curriculum and strong ties to the financial industry, Columbia attracts ambitious professionals from around the world.
Full Krannert School of Management profile → Calculate Krannert School of Management ROI →
Columbia is a top M7 program; Krannert School of Management is a highly ranked T15 school. Columbia ranks higher in US News, but Columbia delivers a stronger 5-year ROI of 475%. The best choice depends on your career goals and preferred location.
Columbia is more selective with a 16.5% acceptance rate, compared to 25.0% for Krannert School of Management.
Columbia reports a median base salary of $190,000, while Krannert School of Management reports $142,000. Actual salary varies significantly by industry and function.
Columbia annual tuition is $82,584 and Krannert School of Management is $62,000. Krannert School of Management offers a 20,584 lower annual cost.
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