The 2026 Financial Times Global MBA ranking showcases 100 leading full-time MBA programs from around the world. This year, 128 business schools participated, each meeting accreditation standards set by either Equis or AACSB. The ranking is derived from a comprehensive evaluation that includes feedback from alumni surveyed three years after graduation. For a school to be considered, a minimum of 20 percent of alumni must respond to the survey, which yielded a total of 6,265 completed questionnaires and an overall response rate of 33 percent.
The evaluation criteria consist of 21 factors, with alumni feedback contributing significantly—56 percent of the total score is based on their responses. Key metrics include average salary three years post-MBA and the salary increase experienced by graduates. Other notable criteria measure schools on “value for money,” career progress, alumni network effectiveness, and diversity among faculty and students. The publication also takes into account environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors by assessing teaching hours dedicated to these subjects and the school’s carbon footprint.
For the first time, MIT’s Sloan School of Management secured the top position, reporting an average alumni salary of $245,991. Harvard Business School ranks 10th overall, noted for the highest average weighted alumni salary ($259,874) and substantial career progress. The Indian School of Business achieved the highest salary increase (248 percent) among graduates, while the Dartmouth College Tuck School led in alumni network effectiveness.
Why this story matters:
- This ranking influences prospective students’ choice of MBA programs, affecting enrollment trends and school reputations.
Key takeaway:
- MIT’s Sloan School has risen to the top of the global MBA rankings, indicating a growing emphasis on alumni success post-graduation.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Some critics argue that the ranking may favor schools in well-resourced regions, potentially overlooking quality programs in other locations.
