MBA Program Stats

Annual Tuition: $74,910

Annual Tuition Non-Resident: $74,910

Acceptance Rate: 14.4%

Full-Time Enrollment: 1015

Average GPA: 3.7

Median GMAT: 730

Median GRE: 163

International: 38%

Minority: 23%

Female: 46%

Male: 54%

Average Age: 27

What You Need To Know

For more than 100 years, Harvard Business School has offered a two-year full-time residential MBA program with a general management curriculum focused on real-world practice. The oldest highest education institution in the US, Harvard University has produced eight American presidents stretching from John Adams to Barack Obama. The business school itself boasts the most influential MBA alumni network in the world. Among its graduates are JP MorganChase CEO Jamie Dimon, media entrepreneur Michael Bloomberg, former Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg, and former U.S. President George W. Bush.

The B-School is situated in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts – just across the Charles River from downtown Boston. HBS’s mission has been to build and educate leaders who make a difference in the world, which requires an environment of trust and mutual respect, free expression and inquiry, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

“You feel a sense of family in every aspect of HBS from your classroom section to your student club. Even for those with a spouse and kids like myself, our families feel just as much a part of if not more bonded to the greater HBS family. Every time I speak to a Harvard alum, they talk about how much they miss those two years at HBS, and I have come to realize what they miss most is being so close to their HBS family, which is a one-of-kind feeling,” says HBS MBA Wale Lawal.

Academics And Programs

Each class size is around 925 students, with about 90 in each cohort – yet there is still a strong sense of cohesion. Alongside their cohort, HBS MBAs take core courses in general management curriculum that’s focused on real-world practice and case studies. Professors step back, guiding discussions to tap into the wide range of industry, functional, and even cultural experiences among the student body. As one might expect, each cohort is composed of students from different industries, socio-economic backgrounds, and nationalities to give each discussion diverse perspectives.

Harvard pioneered the case study method of learning which remains dominant in MBA studies. On average, HBS students read over 500 cases throughout their studies. Students step into the shoes of case protagonists — real business leaders — and are challenged by diverse perspectives of their classmates. HBS also uses FIELD projects, multimedia simulations, and more, students bring leadership to life.

Unlike most business schools, Harvard offers students a true residential experience, with dormitory rooms exclusively for MBA students on what has to be the most impressive business school campus in the world, with more than 30 separate buildings, including a chapel, a massive library, and a fitness center.

Aside from curriculum, students can participate in more than 95 clubs and 200 leadership positions in the Student Association at HBS, engaging in workshops, guest speaker lectures, and conferences that provide opportunities for learning, networking, and socializing outside of the classroom.

Students also can participate in HBS Initiatives, where faculty, students, and alumni collaborate with practitioners to address complex topics. The Harvard Innovation Labs supports students exploring entrepreneurship and offers a collaborative and supportive network of advisors and mentors.

While HBS’s endowment has swelled from $4.1 billion to $5.3 billion over the past year, the school isn’t just sitting on its funds. In August, the school announced that 10% of its students would have full tuition covered, which comes to $76,000 annually per MBA candidate.

Rankings Data For Harvard

Harvard MBA Rankings

Ranking	Poets&Quants
2023-2024	2
2022-2023	5
2021-2022	5
2020-2021	5
2019-2020	4

Getting Into This School

Harvard Business School Essay Tips And Examples

Harvard Business School (HBS) has introduced brand new essay prompts for the 2024–2025 application season

Harvard Business School’s NEW 2024-2025 MBA Application Essays

In this video, Gatehouse Admissions Founder Liza Weale gives her tips for writing your very best HBS essays.

HBS Interview Prep: Tips, Resources, And Sample Questions

After all the hours of preparation from both you and your HBS interviewer, the actual interview is just 30 minutes

MBA Program Consideration Set

If you believe you’re a close match to this school–based on your scores, age and work experience, you could look at these other competitive full-time MBA programs as well. We list them by stretch, match, and more to consider. These options are presented on the basis of brand image and ranking status as a general guideline. These are meant to be a starting point for further exploration.

Match Schools

More Schools to Consider

Partners who enable Poets&Quants to provide, free to our readers, information, inspiration, and greater access to graduate education opportunities.

Harvard Business School vs. Stanford GSB: The Ultimate Smackdown

Stacy Blackman Consulting analyzes the key differences between these two MBA giants

Rankings, Rates, ROI & More: The M7 By The Numbers

All the 2021 school employment report & class profile data — and much more — for the Magnificent Seven B-schools

2023-2024 MBA Admissions Events By School

A school-by-school listing of MBA events for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle

This Is What It Costs To Get An MBA From A Top Business School

All the data on tuition, expenses & total cost when you study for an MBA from a leading business school in the United States or Europe

Average GMAT Scores At The Top U.S. MBA Programs

All the score averages for the Class of 2024 at 27 of the leading business schools

Acceptance Rates & Yield At The Top 50 U.S. MBA Programs

Acceptance rates rose at elite U.S. B-schools in 2022, but across all 50 P&Q-ranked schools the average rate was similar to 2021 — and some schools got much more selective

GMAT Versus GRE: Which Top-50 MBA Programs Prefer Which Test?

Where a GMAT or GRE score is a must for admission — and where you don't have to worry about sitting for an entrance exam

Why Students Chose

“As an aspiring global business leader, the footprint of the school I would attend was a key contributor to my decision-making process. HBS Global Research Centers, with nine primary and many more satellite offices around the globe, piqued my interest early in my school research process. I got in touch with the Middle East and North Africa research center in Istanbul. I learned how many new cases they were developing and how well the faculty was involved and stayed in touch with the latest advancements in the area. Knowing all of these made me feel confident that the education I would be getting at HBS would have a global perspective, and I would get an understanding of the macro trends around the world.” Yağız Yıldız (‘24)

“Aside from classmates, cases and professors, it was the cross-school access that sold it for me to attend HBS’s MBA program – meaning the opportunity to take classes from or attend seminars and talks at the other Harvard schools, such as the Kennedy School of Public Policy or the Law School. As our world gets more complex and the business landscape continues to evolve, I think it’s important to be able to discuss and understand topics from several diverse perspectives – regardless of if they are in line with my opinion. I wanted the opportunity to explore issues from a public policy, law, or education lens to complement the in-depth business discussions. This will make me a more empathetic and thoughtful leader.” Carolina Romeo (‘24)

“One thing that stood out for me is the experienced and renowned faculty. I recall breaking the news of my admission to a former colleague and his reaction was ‘Wow, bet you can’t wait to learn more about Porter’s Five Forces from Michael Porter himself!’ I really look forward to interacting with the professors and all the amazing guest lecturers from the corporate world and tapping into their wealth of knowledge throughout the MBA.” Isaac Mungai (‘24)

“If the section experience can be treated separately from classmates and classes, the section experience was a key factor in choosing HBS. I sought the resources of a larger program and smaller intimate community that would include people beyond those in the same recruiting pathway or affinity groups. Aside from the section experience, the FIELD Global Immersion capstone in the second half of the first year was a key factor in choosing HBS. It provides a unique but shared opportunity among the entire class to apply what we’ve learned during the year to a company, while expanding our global perspective.” Jaye Aster Broder
(‘24)

“The strength of their student clubs is unmatched. Looking at the list of clubs, and engaging with students and alum, I felt like a kid at a candy shop. THEY EVEN HAVE A TEXAS CLUB. For those of you not from Texas, you may never understand, but as a Texan it spoke to my soul to see that there are fellow students with the same level of pride as me. On top of the student clubs, I love how diverse of an experience you get with the class size at Harvard. You not only get to call around 1,000 other students classmates, you also get section mates that stick with you for an entire year, and you get to work with an even smaller group across sections to conduct case prep. Through my observations, it has become very apparent that Harvard ensures you not only have access to a plethora of diverse backgrounds in your class, but you also have the opportunities to develop deep personal relationships through a variety of avenues like sections, clubs, and a host of other engagements.” Wale Lawal (‘24)

Student Features For Harvard

Meet Harvard Business School’s MBA Class Of 2024

A look at 9 incoming first-years plus an exclusive interview with managing director Chad Losee

Meet Harvard Business School’s MBA Class Of 2023

Largest class ever brings spirit and commitment to HBS

Meet Harvard Business School’s MBA Class Of 2022

These nine MBA students personify the school's diversity and depth

The M7 B-Schools: Everything You Need To Know

All the data on the U.S. B-schools that consistently lead the rankings & spark the imagination of applicants everywhere

MBA Pay By Occupation & Industry: Here’s How Much You’re Worth

A school-by-school pay comparison for MBAs in Consulting, Finance, Technology, and more

MBA Pay By Region: Here’s How Much You’re Worth

A school-by-school look at how much MBAs can expect to earn by region

High & Low MBA Salaries And Bonuses At The Top 100 B-Schools

All the most important numbers from the top business schools in the United States

The major employers of MBAs at Harvard, Stanford and Wharton

Who Really Hires Harvard, Stanford & Wharton MBAs These Days

An exclusive look at today's major MBA employers at Harvard, Stanford & Wharton & how many MBAs they hire from each school

Which M7 School Parties The Hardest? This Survey Found Out

In new report, 84% say grades are secondary to the social side of school

10 Movies Every Business Student Must Watch

From Wall Street to Norma Rae, a movie marathon for admits to business school, current MBAs and anyone interested in life's great truths

Career Stats

Harvard MBA Compensation

MBA Compensation	2022	2021	2020	2019	2018
Median Base Salary	$ 175,000	$ 150,500	$ 150,000	$ 148,750	$ 140,000
Median Signing Bonus	$ 30,000	$ 30,000	$ 30,000	$ 30,000	$ 25,000

Harvard MBA Job Offers

Job Offers	2022	2021	2020	2019	2018
Received An Offer	95%	96%	90%	94%	95%

Harvard MBA Industry Choices

Industry Sector	2022	2021	2020	2019	2018
Consulting	26%	23%	24%	21%	25%
Consumer Products	3%	3%	3%	3%	3%
Entertainment/Media	3%	3%	2%	3%	4%
Financial Services	34%	35%	34%	28%	30%
Health Care	5%	6%	7%	7%	6%
Manufacturing	5%	4%	4%	7%	5%
Nonprofit/Government	3%	3%	4%	5%	2%
Retail	1%	1%	0%	3%	3%
Services	1%	3%	3%	3%	3%
Technology	19%	19%	19%	20%	19%

Admissions For Harvard

Essay Questions For Harvard

There is one question for the Class of 2026 application:

1. As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program? (900 words)

We invite you to share personal or professional experiences from your background that give you a unique ability to contribute to HBS. Try to remember to not overthink or overwrite in this essay; it is best to answer the question in clear and concise language that those of us who don’t know your world can understand.

School Features And Admissions Analysis

Harvard MBA Class Of 2025 Achieves School’s First GMAT Increase In 13 Years

As class size shifts downward at HBS, so do a number of key measures, including women in the class

Harvard 2022 Jobs Data: MBA Median Salary & Total Compensation Explode

As pandemic recedes, new employment data shows salary for HBS grads jumps 16% & compensation grows 17.5%

Harvard Business School MBA Class Profile: Apps Down 15%, But HBS Again Enrolls Largest-Ever Class

Harvard maintains record enrollment of women & internationals in new MBA class

Harvard Business School To Cover Full Tuition & Fees For 10% Of MBA Students

About 50% of MBA students get a need-based scholarship from HBS, with the average yearly amount $42K

MBA Class Of 2021 Jobs: Harvard Placement Rebounds, But Pay Slips

MBA employment report shows modest salary growth but declines in those receiving a bonus

Harvard Business School Class Profile: HBS Enrolls Largest MBA Cohort Ever

Applications rose 5% with a record percent admitted with a GRE score

11 Myths About Getting Into Harvard Business School

Admissions chief & MBA student explode common misconceptions about the world's most storied B-school

Jon Frank, co-founder and CEO, Admissionado

No, But Seriously. What’s Harvard Business School Truly, Actually, Really Like?

When To Start Your MBA Application

Round one countdown: 7 strategies to start now

3 Key Tips For Great HBS Letters Of Recommendation

What HBS looks for in your LOR

Want A GMAT Score Over 700? Read This

Plus lessons from a Harvard MBA and advice on Yale SOM essays

Work Authorization Considerations For The International MBA Applicant

A guide to help you understand what you’re up against, and how to succeed

MBA Essays That Worked At Harvard & Stanford

These MBA essays helped to get applicants into Harvard and Stanford

Harvard, Stanford & Wharton: Three MBA Essays That Got Candidates Admitted

Successful MBA essay examples for Stanford, Harvard, and Wharton

Harvard MBA Essay Samples: How Five Applicants From India Overcame The Odds

Five complete examples of successful Harvard MBA essays

An Extraordinary Collection Of MBA Essays From Successful Stanford & Harvard Applicants

What Matters & What More? contains 50 essays from successful MBA applicants to Harvard and Stanford

HBSGuru Sandy Kreisberg & Poets&Quants Founder John A. Byrne

Invited To Interview By Harvard Business School? Here’s What To Expect

The questions to prep for & the attitude to bring

Harvard Business School Interview Questions

Invited to interview? Here's what to expect

what it costs to hire an MBA admissions consultant

What It Now Costs To Hire An MBA Admissions Consultant

The cost can vary from $20K to a three-school package to $195 an hour for one-on-one coaching

How To Apply To Harvard Business School For Free

Plus an early look at the HBS Class of 2023

5 Key Tips For Your HBS Reapplication Strategy

Essential tips from a former HBS admissions insider on how to reapply

The Most Favorably Reviewed MBA Admission Consulting Firms

These nine MBA admissions firms stand out for their success with MBA applicants

The Top MBA Admission Consultants Of 2023

These MBA admission consultants are at the top of their game, winning more favorable client reviews than any other in the world

MBA Watch For Harvard

MBA Watch is where thousands of MBA applicants not only get to tell their story but have John A. Byrne, MBA admissions coaches and our audience, assess their odds of admission and get help to improve their chances of getting in!

Mr. Future Hedge Fund Manager

Since I was nineteen years old, I have been holding the vision of becoming a creative, innovative investor who has contrarian investment ideas and makes unconventional investments over the long-haul, while holding the belief that the most important quality of an investor is temperament, not intellect.

Mr. Failed Startup Founder

Dropped out of Indian Institute of Technology to join law school.

Mr. Overrepresented MBB Consultant (2+2)

I graduated from the senior class of 2022 at a top Canadian undergraduate business school.

Mr. Concrete Angel

American born in Brazil.

Ms. Female Sales Leader

A manager since age 24, I’ve managed teams of up to fourteen direct reports.

Mr. Soldier Boy

Currently a Military Intelligence Officer training junior officers in human intelligence collection.

Mr. Finance

Undergrad in Business and Data Systems, interned at one of top 3 biggest tech companies but then moved to startup where I eventually lead a sales division.

Mr. Jumbo GMAT

Work experience comes to two years of in-house strategy at a publicly listed multinational (think top 20 nationally by market cap & revenue) managing ad hoc teams on a project-by-project basis.

Mr. MBB To PM

- Just moved to a developing country to help build-out a country-leading ride-hailing startup - Former MBB, focusing on strategy and advanced analytics (a.