Top 25 Business Schools' Acceptance Rates & Class Profiles (2026)
Discover the latest MBA acceptance rates and class profiles for the top 25 business schools in 2026. Get key insights to strengthen your MBA application.
Posted April 21, 2026
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Table of Contents
When applying to top MBA programs, you need to understand where you stand. Acceptance rates and class profiles give you a clear benchmark so you can target schools where you have a real shot of getting accepted and strong career placement after graduation.
This 2026 guide breaks down the latest data across the top 25 U.S. business schools to help you compare yourself against the average profile at each school.
For more information on how to get into business school, check out these free resources:
- The Ultimate M7 MBA Essay Guide
- How to Craft the Ultimate MBA Resume -- With Examples
- MBA Application Timeline: What to Do and When to Apply
Why Acceptance Rates Matter
The Role of Acceptance Rates
The lower the rate, the higher the competition. For example, Harvard Business School admits about 11% of applicants, while Stanford Graduate School of Business admits roughly 7%. This means you need standout academics, leadership, and career results to compete.
Note: Use acceptance rates as a filter. They help you quickly assess where you are competitive based on your GPA, test scores, and work experience.
What Drives Acceptance Rates
Top MBA programs don’t admit based on one factor. They evaluate your full profile:
- Work experience: Most competitive candidates have 4-5 years
- GMAT/GRE scores: Strong scores still matter, especially at top schools
- Leadership + career direction: Clear impact and upward trajectory are non-negotiable
Even schools like the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia Business School, with acceptance rates around 21%, remain highly selective.
Class Profiles of Top MBA Programs
What is an MBA Class Profile?
An MBA class profile shows the average candidate who gets accepted and serves as your benchmark. For example, at Stanford Graduate School of Business, the standard is very high across both academics and leadership, while the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania looks for strong academics combined with diverse professional backgrounds.
If your profile is close to or above these averages, you are competitive. If not, you need to strengthen your application before applying.
MBA Application Checklist
Stay on track with your MBA apps. Get a full customizable checklist of what to do, when, and how to do it well.
MBA Acceptance Rates at Top Business Schools
If you want a quick comparison, here’s how the top MBA programs stack up by acceptance rate:
| School | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 7% |
| Harvard Business School | 11% |
| MIT Sloan School of Management | 14% |
| University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) | 21% |
| Columbia Business School | 21% |
| Duke Fuqua School of Business | 20% |
| NYU Stern School of Business | 24% |
| UC Berkeley Haas School of Business | 25% |
| Carnegie Mellon Tepper School of Business | 27% |
| Yale School of Management | 27% (est.) |
| Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management | 28% |
| Chicago Booth School of Business | 29% |
| Northwestern Kellogg School of Management | 29% |
| Michigan Ross School of Business | 29% |
| Indiana Kelley School of Business | 29% |
| Dartmouth Tuck School of Business | 31% |
| USC Marshall School of Business | 31% |
| UCLA Anderson School of Management | 31% |
| Rice Jones Graduate School of Business | 34% |
| UVA Darden School of Business | 34% |
| Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management | 38% |
| UT Austin McCombs School of Business | 38% |
| UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School | 37% |
| University of Washington Foster School of Business | 39% |
| Georgetown McDonough School of Business | 60% |
MBA Acceptance Rates Overview
1. Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB)
Stanford Graduate School of Business (Stanford GSB) is one of the most selective MBA programs. It is attracting a globally diverse and academically elite cohort. The program emphasizes leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation, leveraging its close ties to Silicon Valley to offer unique startup, networking, and experiential opportunities. Alumni frequently launch companies or take on high-impact roles in tech, finance, and social ventures, reflecting the school’s mission to develop leaders who create lasting change.
Stanford GSB Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Stanford Graduate School of Business admits roughly 7% of applicants for the Class of 2027. This makes it one of the most competitive MBA programs in the world.
Acceptance Rate & Applications
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Applicants: 7,259
- Class Size: 434
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 738
- Average GMAT (Focus Edition): 689
- Average GPA: 3.76
- Average GRE: 164 (Verbal), 164 (Quant)
Work Experience
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5.3
Class Demographics
- Women: 45%
- International Students: 38%
- Countries Represented: 64
- Students of color: 55%
The data above is sourced from the Stanford Graduate School of Business MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Stanford GSB MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- Stanford GSB MBA Curriculum - Core, Electives, & Specializations
- Stanford GSB MBA Essays: Prompts, Tips, & Examples
- Stanford GSB: MBA Tuition & Fees Breakdown
- The 5 Best Classes at Stanford's Graduate School of Business
2. Harvard Business School (HBS)
The Harvard Business School (HBS) is known for its rigorous case method approach, where students make decisions using real business scenarios. Its large, diverse class builds a powerful network and exposes students to a wide range of perspectives. Guided by its motto, “We educate leaders who make a difference in the world,” HBS trains leaders to think critically, act decisively, and lead at scale.
Harvard Business School Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Harvard Business School admits approximately 11% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Applications
- Estimated Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Applicants: 9,409
- Class Size: 943
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Median GMAT: 685 (Verbal: 86, Quantitative: 84)
- Median GMAT (10th Edition): 730 (Verbal: 42, Quantitative: 49)
- Median GRE: 164 (Verbal and Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.76
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 4.9 years
Class Demographics
- Women: 44%
- International Students: 37%
- First-Generation Students: 10%
This data comes from the Harvard Business School MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Harvard Business School MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- Applying to Harvard Business School: Story of a Current Student
- Harvard Business School MBA Essay: 5 Things to Do
3. University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business
The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is known for its analytical, data-driven approach to business education. Its MBA program combines rigorous finance and quantitative training with flexible majors and cross-disciplinary options. With one of the largest business school alumni networks, Wharton prepares leaders to make informed decisions and drive results across industries.
Wharton Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania admits 21% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Applications
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Applicants: 7,613
- Class Size: 888
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- GMAT (Focus Average): 676
- GMAT (Legacy Average): 735
- Average GRE: 162 (Verbal), 163 (Quant)
- Average GPA: 3.6
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5 years
Class Demographics
- Women: 44%
- International Students: 26%
- LGBTQ+ Students: 12%
- First-Generation Students: 11%
This data comes from the Wharton MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Wharton MBA Application Essays: Prompts & Expert Tips
- Wharton MBA Application Essays: Prompts & Expert Tips
4. University of Chicago Booth
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business is known for being rigorous and data-driven in its thinking. If you want to make decisions based on evidence, this is one of the best programs you can choose. Its strengths are clear: a flexible curriculum, top faculty in economics and finance, and a training style that forces you to think independently and solve complex problems with precision. That is why Booth consistently produces strong leaders in finance, consulting, tech, and entrepreneurship. Its philosophy is simple: “Let knowledge grow from more to more; and so be human life enriched.”
Chicago Booth Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The University of Chicago Booth School of Business admits 29% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Applications
- Acceptance Rate: 29%
- Applicants: 5,876
- Class Size: 635
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 736
- Average GRE: 161 (Verbal), 163 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.6
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5 years
Class Demographics
- Women: 41%
- International Students: 37%
- Countries Represented: 63
- First-Generation Students: 12%
This data comes from the Chicago Booth MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Chicago Booth MBA Essays: 5 Expert Tips
- Chicago Booth MBA Class Profile: Key Insights & Takeaways
- How to Answer the “Why Booth?” Interview Question
5. Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
The Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management is the clear choice if you want to lead through people. It is best known for marketing, consulting, and management. It also has a strong focus on communication, influence, and team execution. Kellogg trains you to work in high-performing teams and drive results in real business settings. If your goal is consulting or leadership roles that require strong interpersonal skills, this is one of the smartest programs you can choose. Its top post-MBA industries are consulting, financial services, technology, healthcare/biopharma, and consumer products.
Northwestern Kellogg Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Kellogg School of Management admits 29% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 29%
- Class Size: 534
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (Focus Edition): 687
- Average GMAT (Legacy Edition): 733
- Average GRE: 162 (Verbal), 162 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.68
Work Experience
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5.1 years
Class Demographics
- International Students: 37%
- U.S. Veteran Students: 9%
This data comes from the Kellogg School of Management MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Northwestern Kellogg MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- How to Nail Your Kellogg MBA Application Essays
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sloan
The MIT Sloan School of Management stands out for one thing: innovation backed by real-world execution. It is known for its strength in technology, entrepreneurship, and data-driven management, with deep ties to the broader Massachusetts Institute of Technology ecosystem. If you want to build, launch, or scale ideas, Sloan is one of the strongest programs you can choose. The school upholds a culture of experimentation, collaboration, and hands-on learning through labs, startups, and action-based projects. It produces operators, founders, and problem-solvers who move fast and turn ideas into impact across tech, finance, and global industries. Its motto reflects this mindset: “Mens et Manus” (Mind and Hand).
MIT Sloan Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Sloan School of Management admits 14% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Class Size: 450 (including LGO students)
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Median GMAT: 720 (Range: 710-760)
- Median GMAT Focus: 675 (Range: 645-735)
- Median GPA: 3.69 (out of 4.0)
- GRE Quant Range (Middle 80%): 159-170
Work Experience
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5 years
Class Demographics
- Women: 47%
- Countries Represented: 61
This data is drawn from the MIT Sloan School of Management MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- MIT Sloan MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- MIT Sloan MBA Cost: Tuition & Fees Breakdown
7. Columbia University Business School
The Columbia Business School is one of the best MBA programs for finance and real-world business experience. It is located in New York City, and that means you have direct access to top companies, investors, and live deals. It is a top choice for careers in investment banking, private equity, and asset management. The program focuses on fast decision-making, strong business judgment, and real market exposure. If you want to work in finance or high-level business roles, the school is one of the smartest programs you can choose. Its message is clear: “At the very center of business.”
Columbia Business School Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Columbia Business School admits 21% of applicants for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Applicants: 7,477
- Class Size:
- 224 (January Entry, 4 clusters)
- 758 (August Entry, 10 clusters)
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (10th Edition): 734
- Average GMAT (Focus Edition): 690
- GRE Verbal/Quantitative: 163 / 163
- Average GPA: 3.6
Class Demographics
- Women: 46%
- International Students: 41%
Work Experience
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5
This data reflects the Columbia Business School MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Columbia Business School MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- A Guide to the Columbia Business School Essays (2023-2024)
8. University of California, Berkeley Haas School of Business
The University of California, Berkeley Haas School of Business stands out for producing leaders who think independently and act with purpose. It is known for its four defining principles: Question the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always, and Beyond Yourself, which shape students into sharp, collaborative, and impact-driven professionals. Applicants choose Haas to join a global, high-impact community that uses business to drive real change, and where every student is expected to contribute to something bigger than themselves.
Berkeley Haas Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
With an acceptance rate of 25%, Berkeley Haas remains one of the more selective MBA programs in the United States.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 25%
- Students Enrolled: 273
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Median GMAT: 730
- Median GMAT Focus: 675
- Average GRE: 161 (Verbal), 162 (Quant)
- Average Undergraduate GPA: 3.67
Class Demographics
- Women: 43%
- International Students: 44%
- LGBTQ+: 15%
- Veterans: 6%
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5.6 years
The information above is sourced from the Berkeley Haas Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- How to Nail Your Berkeley Haas MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
- Berkeley Haas MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- How to Nail Your Berkeley Haas MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
9. Yale University School of Management (SOM)
The Yale University School of Management trains leaders to operate across business and society. It is known for its mission, “educating leaders for business and society,” and for integrating public, private, and nonprofit perspectives into every part of the program. Yale SOM produces disciplined, mission-driven leaders who prioritize impact and make decisions with a broader societal lens.
Yale SOM Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Yale School of Management MBA acceptance rate is estimated at 27% for the Class of 2027, although the school does not officially publish a fixed figure.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 27% (estimated)
- Students Enrolled: 367
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Median GMAT: 740
- Median GMAT Focus: 675
- Median GRE: 163 (Verbal), 166 (Quantitative)
- Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.69
Class Demographics
- Women: 44%
- Students of Color: 56%
- International Students: 41%
- LGBTQ+: 13%
- First-Generation: 17%
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5 years
The data above comes from the Yale School of Management Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- How to Nail Your Yale SOM MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
- Yale SOM MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- How to Nail Your Yale SOM MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
10. Dartmouth College Tuck School of Business
The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth stands out for its tight-knit, high-trust community and leadership development focus. It is known for its immersive, collaborative culture where students are pushed to lead, communicate clearly, and take ownership. Tuck upholds a people-first approach to leadership, producing confident, decisive leaders who excel in team-driven environments. Its motto, “Tuck develops wise, decisive leaders who better the world through business,” reflects its emphasis on judgment, integrity, and real-world impact.
Dartmouth Tuck Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Tuck School of Business 31% acceptance rate makes it more accessible than most top MBA programs, but admitted candidates still show strong academics and proven leadership. Treat Tuck as a fit-driven school. If you don’t clearly show a collaborative mindset, leadership, and why Tuck specifically, you will get rejected.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 31%
- Class Size: 304
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (10th Edition): 727
- Average GMAT Focus: 671
- Average GRE: 162 (Verbal), 160 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.6
Class Demographics
- Women: 44%
- Minority Students: 29%
- Students of Color: 30%
- International (Foreign National): 22%
- LGBTQ+: 9%
- First-Generation: 13%
- Students with Children: 4%
The data above comes from Tuck's Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Dartmouth Tuck MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- Dartmouth Tuck MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- How to Nail Your Dartmouth Tuck MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, and Tips
Coach Recommendations
To give yourself the best chance of getting into a top MBA program, we highly recommend working with a Leland expert MBA admissions coach. Below are some of our top coaches. Browse all of them here.
Top Coaches
11. New York University Stern School of Business
The New York University Stern School of Business is known for its unmatched access to global finance and business in New York City. It’s known for finance, real-world execution, and its defining principle of IQ + EQ. Stern produces sharp, self-aware, and highly competitive leaders who perform under pressure and communicate with clarity.
NYU Stern Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The NYU Stern School of Business has an acceptance rate of 24% for the Class of 2027. This places it among the more selective MBA programs in the United States.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Applicants: 4,933
- Admitted Students: 1,161
- Enrolled Students: 336
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (10th Edition): 737
- Average GMAT Focus: 682
- Average GRE: 163 (Verbal), 164 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.64
Class Demographics
- Women: 45%
- Minority Students: 45%
- International Students: 43%
- LGBTQ+: 10%
- Veterans / Active Duty: 9%
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5.1 years
The information above is sourced from the NYU Stern Full-time MBA Class of 2027 profile.
Read:
- NYU Stern MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- How to Nail the NYU "Pick Six" MBA Application Essay
- How to Nail Your NYU Stern MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
12. Duke University Fuqua School of Business
The Duke University Fuqua School of Business stands out for producing leaders who win through teamwork. It is known for “Team Fuqua,” a culture where collaboration is the standard. The university builds disciplined, reliable leaders who execute at a high level, support their teams, and deliver results without ego. This reflects their belief that strong teams outperform individual talent every time.
Duke Fuqua Class Profile (Class of 2027)
The Duke Fuqua School of Business MBA acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 is 20%. This reflects its competitive admissions as they receive a strong volume of applicants and admits only a selective portion.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Estimated Acceptance Rate: 20%
- Class Size (Enrolled Students): 426
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5.8 years
- Undergraduate GPA (Middle 80%): 3.16-3.91
- GMAT Range (Middle 80%): 680-770
- GRE Range (Middle 80% Verbal + Quant): 307-328
Class Demographics
- Women: 47%
- Students of Color (U.S.): 55%
- International Citizens: 35%
- LGBTQ+: 11%
- U.S. Military: 11%
- First‑Generation Students: 22%
- Students with a Partner (married/engaged/domestic): 22%
This data reflects the Fuqua Daytime MBA Class Profile for 2027.
Read:
- How to Nail Your Duke Fuqua MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
- Duke Fuqua MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- How to Nail Your Duke Fuqua MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
13. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Ross School of Business
The University of Michigan's Ross School of Business trains leaders through action. It is known for its hands-on approach, especially the MAP (Multidisciplinary Action Projects) program, where students solve real business problems. The university upholds a bias for action and impact, producing leaders who execute, adapt quickly, and deliver results in real-world settings.
Michigan Ross Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Michigan Ross MBA program’s acceptance rate is 29% for the Class of 2027. Ross is competitive, though its full‑time MBA profile emphasizes both academic strength and broad professional backgrounds.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Estimated Acceptance Rate: 29%
- Class Size (Enrolled): 379
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 731
- Average GMAT Focus: 681
- Average GRE: 160 (Verbal), 163 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.43
- Average Work Experience: 5.8 years
Class Demographics
- Women: 39%
- International Students: 40%
- U.S. Military: 15%
- First‑Generation College: 22%
- Countries Represented: 32
The data above reflects the Michigan Ross Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
14. University of Virginia Darden School of Business
The University of Virginia Darden School of Business builds elite decision-makers through its case method teaching approach. It is known for intense, discussion-based classes where students are pushed to think fast, speak clearly, and defend their judgment. The university also upholds leadership grounded in ethics, responsibility, and clear thinking. They produce leaders who lead under pressure because at Darden, doing well is doing good.
UVA Darden Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Darden School of Business has an acceptance rate of 34% for the Class of 2027. This makes the university one of the more accessible programs among top U.S. MBA schools while still maintaining strong academic standards.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 34%
- Class Size: 361
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (Previous Edition): 725
- Average GMAT Focus: 671
- Average GRE: 322 (combined)
- Average GPA: 3.54
Class Demographics
- Women: 35%
- U.S. Racial Minority Students: 21%
- International Students: 30%
- Military Members: 12%
- Countries Represented: 28
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5.7 years
The data above comes from the Darden School of Business Class Profile for the Class of 2027 as of August 2025.
Read:
- The University of Virginia Darden School of Business - MBA Program & Application Overview
- Why I Chose Darden for My MBA Program
- How to Nail Your UVA Darden MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
15. Cornell University Johnson Graduate School of Management
The Cornell SC Johnson College of Business combines Ivy League rigor with practical and industry-focused training. The university is known for its immersive learning model and strong connections to industries like finance, consulting, and tech. Johnson upholds performance, collaboration, and adaptability, producing leaders who execute in complex, fast-moving environments. If early specialization matters to you, Johnson is worth a serious look. The program moves you into focused, interest-driven classes faster than more structured MBAs.
Cornell Johnson Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management has an acceptance rate of 28% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate
- Acceptance Rate: 28%
- Class Size: 276
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Median GMAT: 710
- Median GPA: 3.4
- Average GRE: Not reported
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: 38%
- Underrepresented Minorities: 26%
- International Students: 42%
- U.S. Military: 14%
- Countries Represented: 34
Work Experience
- Average Work Experience: 5.3 years
The information is sourced from the Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Cornell Johnson MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- Cornell Johnson MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
16. Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business
The Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business develops data-driven leaders who make precise and informed decisions. Rooted in the school’s pioneering tradition of management science, an analytical approach to decision-making that combines data, technology, and human insight, Tepper draws on CMU’s strengths in AI, robotics, and automation to sharpen its quantitative edge. The result is a program that develops strong analytical thinkers ready for tech-intensive environments.
Carnegie Mellon Tepper Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Tepper School of Business has an acceptance rate of 27% for the Class of 2027. This reflects a competitive admissions process focused on both academic achievement and professional experience.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 27%
- Class Size: 144
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (10th Edition): 707
- Average GMAT Focus Edition: 659
- Average GRE: 159 (Verbal), 163 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.33
- Average Work Experience: 5.2 years
Class Demographics
- Women: Not reported
- International Students: 38%
- Military / Veterans: 14%
- LGBTQ+: Not reported
- Countries Represented: 21
This data is drawn from the CMU Tepper School of Business Full-Time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
17. University of Southern California Marshall School of Business
The University of Southern California Marshall School of Business builds leaders with one of the strongest business networks in the world. It’s known for its deep alumni connections, especially across entertainment, tech, and entrepreneurship in Los Angeles. Marshall values collaboration, loyalty, and real-world execution, producing confident, well-connected leaders who know how to open doors and close deals.
USC Marshall Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The USC Marshall MBA admits 31% of applicants for its Class of 2027, which reflects the program’s competitive admissions process.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 31%
- Class Size: 176 students
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 742
- Average GRE: 322
- Average GPA: 3.55
- Average Age: 28
- Average Years of Work Experience: 6
Class Demographics
- Women: 31%
- International Students: 43%
- LGBTQ+: Not reported
- U.S. Military: Not reported
The data above reflects the USC Marshall Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
18. University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management
The UCLA Anderson School of Management builds leaders who combine performance with character. Guided by the three defining values: Share Success, Think Fearlessly, and Drive Change, the university is shaping a highly collaborative, forward-thinking culture. They develop transformative leaders who are analytical, adaptable, and driven to make a real impact in business and society. Students here are expected to challenge ideas, work as a team, and take action that leads to measurable results.
UCLA Anderson Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Anderson School of Management has an acceptance rate of 31% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 31%
- Applications Received: 3,064
- Class Size: 307
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- GMAT 10th Edition (Mean): 703
- GRE Verbal Average: 162
- GRE Quant Average: 163
- GPA (Mean): 3.5
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5.6
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: 46%
- International Students: 35%
- LGBTQ+: 9%
- Military Veterans / Active Duty: 4%
The data above comes from the UCLA Anderson Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- UCLA Anderson MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- The UCLA Anderson MBA Program: Expectation Vs. Reality
- UCLA Anderson MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- How to Nail Your UCLA Anderson MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
19. University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business
The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin creates leaders who act with integrity and deliver results. Often called the “Harvard of Texas,” it is known for its strength in finance, entrepreneurship, and its place in Austin’s high-growth business ecosystem. Here, analytical thinking meets entrepreneurial grit, and alumni carry their pride far beyond the campus, famously signaling it with the iconic “Hook ’em Horns.”
UT Austin McCombs Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The McCombs School of Business has an acceptance rate of 38% for the Class of 2027. This makes it one of the more accessible top U.S. MBA programs while maintaining strong academic and professional standards.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 38%
- Class Size: 235
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- GMAT Focus (Median): 655
- GRE Score (Median): 319
- EA Score (Median): 155
- Median GPA: 3.53
- Average Work Experience: 6 years
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: Not reported
- International Students: 31%
- Active U.S. Military / Veterans: 15%
- First-Generation Students: 17%
- Out-of-State Students: 24%
The data above reflects the UT Austin McCombs Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
20. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Kenan-Flagler Business School
The UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School is known for its strong culture of teamwork, leadership development, and consistent performance across industries like consulting, finance, and real estate. Kenan-Flagler upholds the values of integrity, inclusion, and service, producing collaborative, grounded leaders who lead by example and deliver results.
UNC Kenan-Flagler Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
With a 37% acceptance rate, UNC Kenan-Flagler attracts a diverse and experienced student body, combining strong academics with meaningful professional backgrounds.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Class Size: 206
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT Focus: 652
- Average GRE: 319
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5 years
- Average Age: 28
Class Demographics
- Women: 32%
- International Students: 35%
- Military Members: 15%
- Countries Represented: 18
- Dual-Degree Students: 10%
This data is drawn from the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School Full-Time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
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21. Georgetown University McDonough School of Business
The Georgetown University McDonough School of Business produces leaders who operate at the intersection of business and global policy. It turns its Washington, D.C. location into a distinct advantage for MBA students. The program connects a diverse, global cohort with international perspectives through initiatives like the Embassy Events, where events often take place on campus or at local embassies to give students exposure to global issues, cultural experiences, and meaningful opportunities to connect and engage within the university community.
Georgetown McDonough Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The McDonough School of Business has an acceptance rate of 60% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Class Size: 248
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 700
- Average GMAT Focus Edition: 625
- Average GRE: 318
- Average EA: 153
- Average GPA: 3.3
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5 years
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: 31%
- Minority Students: 23%
- First-Generation Students: 21%
- International Students: 44%
- Military Members: 13%
- Countries Represented: 40
The data comes from the Georgetown McDonough Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
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22. University of Washington Foster School of Business
The University of Washington Foster School of Business is known for its strength in consulting, technology, and its deep ties to Seattle’s business ecosystem. Foster upholds a collaborative, results-driven culture, producing analytical, adaptable leaders who solve complex problems and deliver impact.
UW Foster Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Foster School of Business has an acceptance rate of 39% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 39%
- Class Size: 102
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT (Median Current Version): 655
- Average GRE: 160 (Verbal), 158 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA (Median): 3.43
- Average Years of Work Experience: 6
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: 51%
- LGBTQIA2S+: 10%
- Students of Color: 58%
- International Students: 56%
- First-Generation Students: 14%
- Military Members: 24%
This data reflects the UW Foster School of Business Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- UW Foster School of Business MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
23. Indiana University (Bloomington) Kelley School of Business
The Indiana University Kelley School of Business trains career-ready leaders with strong business fundamentals, excelling in consulting, marketing, and operations. Students gain hands-on experience, career resources, and opportunities like a Washington, D.C. immersion, all within the vibrant, diverse Bloomington community.
Indiana University Kelley Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Kelley School of Business has an acceptance rate of 29% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 29%
- Class Size: 106
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 607*
- Average GRE: 317
- GRE Verbal/Quantitative: 158 (Verbal), 159 (Quant)
- Average GPA: 3.48
- Average Years of Work Experience: 6.25
- Average Age: 29
Class Demographics
- Women: 28%
- Minority Students: 26%
- International Students: 42%
The data above reflects the Indiana Kelley Full-Time+Flex MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
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24. Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management
The Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management stands out for producing leaders who are both strategic and highly adaptable. They are known for their personalized, close-knit program and strength in healthcare, consulting, and finance. Owen also upholds a collaborative, performance-driven culture, producing analytical, grounded leaders who communicate clearly and execute with precision.
Vanderbilt Owen Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
With a 38% acceptance rate, Vanderbilt Owen enrolls a diverse and experienced cohort with strong academic foundations and practical professional experience.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 38%
- Class Size: 160
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT Focus: 660
- Average GRE: 160 (Verbal), 159 (Quantitative)
- Median GPA: 3.4
- Average Years of Work Experience: 6
- Average Age: 28
Class Demographics
- Women: 24%
- Minority Students: Not reported
- International Students: 29%
- Military Members: 20%
- First-Generation College Students: 18%
- Countries Represented: 20
The data above is drawn from the Vanderbilt Owen MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
25. Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business
The Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business stands out for producing entrepreneurial leaders who build and scale businesses. It is known for its strength in entrepreneurship, energy, and its tight connection to Houston’s business ecosystem. Jones upholds a hands-on, action-driven approach, producing resourceful, execution-focused leaders who turn ideas into results.
Rice Jones Acceptance Rate & Class Profile (2027)
The Jones Graduate School of Business has an acceptance rate of 34% for the Class of 2027.
Acceptance Rate & Enrollment
- Acceptance Rate: 34%
- Class Size: 137
Academic Profile (Who Gets In)
- Average GMAT: 692
- Average GRE: 159 (Verbal), 161 (Quantitative)
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5.7
Class Demographics
- Women: 34%
- Minority Students: 47%
- Underrepresented Minorities: 31%
- First-Generation Students: 26%
The data is drawn from the Rice Jones Full-time MBA Class Profile for the Class of 2027.
Read:
- Rice Jones MBA: Acceptance Rate, Deadlines, Cost, Requirements, & Program Overview
- Rice Jones MBA Letters of Recommendation Guide - Questions, Tips, & Examples | Leland
What It Takes to Get Into the Top MBA Programs
Academic Requirements
To be competitive at top business schools, you’ll need:
- GMAT scores are typically between 700 and 740 for the most selective programs (e.g., Stanford GSB, Harvard Business School).
- A solid GPA, with 3.5 or higher often the baseline.
- Test scores such as the GRE may also be accepted at schools like NYU Stern and Michigan Ross.
Work Experience and Leadership
Top MBA programs, such as Harvard Business School, Wharton School, and Stanford GSB, value both years of work experience and leadership potential. Most successful MBA candidates have 4 to 6 years of professional experience, which allows them to contribute real-world insights to class discussions.
However, it’s not just about tenure. Admissions teams assess leadership through experiences like managing teams, driving projects, or taking initiative in careers or community work. A strong application strategy highlights these leadership moments alongside academic metrics such as your average GMAT score, helping applicants stand out in a pool of competitive candidates.
Whether through standardized test results, essays, or career goals, admissions committees look for MBA candidates who demonstrate the ability to lead and contribute meaningfully to their class. This combination of experience and leadership often improves your odds compared to the average acceptance rate at top schools.
Diversity and Backgrounds
Top business schools, including Wharton and Yale School of Management, actively cultivate diverse cohorts to reflect a variety of backgrounds. They encourage first-generation students, individuals from underrepresented races, and applicants with international experience or non-traditional backgrounds, such as military service.
These candidates often stand out in the competitive landscape of MBA admissions, as they bring unique perspectives that enhance learning for all students. Understanding how your background fits into a school’s cohort can also inform your application strategy and increase your chances compared to higher acceptance rates seen at programs with more flexible criteria.
How to Evaluate and Choose the Right Business School
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business School
- Acceptance rates and class profiles are key in determining which schools fit your qualifications.
- Evaluate each school’s admissions process, including required GMAT scores, years of work experience, and leadership potential.
- Consider how the school aligns with your career goals, skills, and interests in management, business, or leadership.
Assessing Fit: Aligning Your Career Goals with Business School
When choosing a business school, it is important to match your career goals with the school’s strengths. If you’re focused on finance, schools like Wharton MBA or Columbia Business School are great choices because of their expertise in that area. If your passion is social impact or sustainability, consider schools like Berkeley Haas and Yale SOM, which specialize in these fields. Make sure the school fits your criteria and will help you build the skills you need for your future. Your resume and application should reflect this alignment, and doing so will increase your chances of success in your MBA program and career.
Get Into Your Dream Business School With the Help of an Expert
The best way to increase your odds of admission to an MBA program is to work with an expert who has been there and can provide personalized guidance based on your background and goals. Below are several popular coaches. Browse all here.
Top Coaches
Read these next:
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- The 10 Best MBA Programs for Product Management
- MBA Interviews: What to Expect, How to Prepare, and How to Stand Out
- Rejected From an MBA Program? Here's What to Do Next
- An Expert Coach's Top Tips for Non-Traditional MBA Applicants
FAQs
How hard is it to get accepted for an MBA?
- It depends on the school. Top programs (M7, top 15) are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 20%. Mid-tier and regional schools are more accessible, but still require solid work experience, clear goals, and strong applications.
Is the MBA market oversaturated?
- No, but the average MBA is. Top programs still place graduates into high-paying roles consistently. The real issue is ROI: if the school isn’t strong or aligned with your goals, the degree loses value.
Is a 3.4 GPA good enough for an MBA?
- Yes. A 3.4 is competitive for many programs and acceptable even for top schools if supported by a strong GMAT/GRE, solid work experience, and clear career direction.
Is a 40% acceptance rate low?
- No. A 40% acceptance rate is moderate. It is selective enough to maintain quality but not extremely competitive.
