Wharton Tops 2026 QS Global MBA Rankings; Harvard Climbs, Stanford Slips
The 2026 QS Global MBA Rankings are out, with Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania retaining its top spot. Stanford Graduate School of Business slipped, while Harvard Business School climbed. The rankings consider 13 criteria across five key indicators, reflecting intense competition among MBA providers.
Wharton School leads the pack, followed by Harvard Business School, which climbed from third to second position. Stanford Graduate School of Business dropped to fourth, with declines in 'value for money' and 'diversity' rankings. The University of Mannheim topped the 'value for money' category in 2022, while Italy's SDA Bocconi leads in 'return on investment' among European institutions. Notably, the 2026 rankings include 64 new entrants, highlighting the 'heightening competition' in MBA programs.
US institutions dominate the top 10 for employability, with four out of the top five and six out of the top 10 positions. Wharton School also ranks first for employability, marking its second consecutive year at the top. HEC Paris is the fifth best MBA provider globally, jumping one place from last year.
The 2026 QS Global MBA Rankings reflect shifts in rankings and increased competition. Wharton School maintains its lead, while Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business show changes in their positions. The rankings highlight the importance of employability, alumni outcomes, return on investment, thought leadership, and diversity in MBA programs.
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