The Chicago Booth MBA Program is a powerhouse for those who thrive on data-driven decision-making, intellectual rigor, and academic flexibility. As one of the top MBA programs globally, Booth is renowned for its unmatched analytical approach, world-class faculty, and a curriculum that empowers students to design their own learning experience.
With a class of 632 students from diverse industries, Booth attracts professionals with an average of five years of work experience and a strong drive for career transformation. The program boasts a median GMAT score of 729, an average GPA of 3.6, and an international student population of 35%, making it one of the most academically elite and globally diverse MBA cohorts.
When it comes to career outcomes, Booth delivers outstanding results. The Class of 2024 reported an 86.8% job offer rate within three months of graduation, with a median base salary of $175,000. Top employers span consulting (34%), finance (33%), and technology (14%), with many students launching careers in private equity, venture capital, and corporate leadership.
But what sets Booth apart? A fiercely independent culture, a pay-it-forward network of alumni, and a rigorous yet flexible curriculum that allows students to shape their MBA journey. Whether you’re looking to break into consulting, finance, tech, or entrepreneurship, Booth provides the resources, mentorship, and global connections to help you succeed.
This deep dive into the Chicago Booth MBA Program covers:
✅ Class Profile for the MBA Class of 2026
✅ Employment & Salary Trends for the Class of 2024
✅ Cost of Attendance & Scholarship Opportunities
✅ Application Process & Deadlines
✅ Key Takeaways on Why Booth is a Game-Changer
If you’re considering Booth, this guide will help you determine if this program is the right fit for your career aspirations.
Class Profile for MBA Class of 2026 (Chicago Booth)
The Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2026 brings together a diverse and accomplished group of students from around the world. With strong academic backgrounds, impressive professional experience, and a global mindset, Booth’s incoming class reflects the school’s commitment to intellectual curiosity and leadership.
Class Overview
| Metric | Details |
| Total Full-Time MBA Students | 632 |
| Applications Submitted | 5,125 |
| Joint Degree Students | 82 |
| Women | 42% |
| International Students | 35% |
| Students Born Outside the U.S. | 46% |
| First-Generation Students | 11% |
| Countries Represented | 66 |
Global Representation
Booth’s class represents students from 66 countries, showcasing a truly international perspective.
| Region | Percentage |
| United States | 65% |
| Asia | 16% |
| Central/South America & Mexico | 11% |
| Europe | 3% |
| Canada | 2% |
| Africa | 2% |
| Middle East | 1% |
| Other | <1% |
Professional Experience
| Metric | Details |
| Average Age | 28 years |
| Average Years of Work Experience | 5 years |
Pre-MBA Industries
| Industry | Percentage |
| Consulting | 27% |
| Financial Services | 18% |
| Technology | 13% |
| Non-Profit/Government | 11% |
| Private Equity / Venture Capital | 8% |
| Healthcare | 5% |
| Consumer Products | 4% |
| Energy | 2% |
| Manufacturing | 1% |
| Accounting | 1% |
| Other | 9% |
Academic Background
| Metric | Details |
| Average GPA | 3.6 |
| GPA Range | 2.36 – 4.0 |
| Undergraduate Institutions Represented | 319 |
| Students Holding Graduate Degrees | 15% |
Undergraduate Majors
| Field of Study | Percentage |
| Business | 27% |
| Engineering | 23% |
| Economics | 22% |
| Liberal Arts | 13% |
| Physical Sciences | 7% |
| Other | 6% |
| Law | 2% |
Test Scores
| Metric | Score |
| GMAT Range | 590 – 780 |
| Average GMAT | 729 |
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| GMAT Submissions | 56% |
GRE Scores
| Section | Range | Average |
| Quantitative | 148 – 170 | 163 |
| Verbal | 145 – 170 | 161 |
| GRE Submissions | – | 38% |
Key Takeaways
- Global diversity: Booth’s Class of 2026 includes 35% international students from 66 countries, with 46% of students born outside the U.S.
- Strong academic credentials: The class has an average GPA of 3.6, with a GMAT median score of 730 and GRE averages of 163 (Quant) and 161 (Verbal).
- Varied professional backgrounds: Consulting (27%) and financial services (18%) make up the largest industry backgrounds, but technology (13%) and non-profit/government (11%) also have strong representation.
- Work experience: Students bring an average of five years of work experience, ensuring rich discussions in the classroom.
This diverse and well-rounded class is set to thrive in Booth’s rigorous and analytical learning environment.
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Chicago Booth MBA Employment Report for the Class of 2024
Chicago Booth MBA graduates continue to achieve strong career outcomes across diverse industries, with a majority securing jobs within three months of graduation. The 2024 Full-Time Employment Report highlights Booth’s exceptional ability to connect students with leading global employers, demonstrating the program’s strength in consulting, financial services, and technology sectors.
Employment Summary
| Category | Percentage | Number of Students |
| Total Graduates | 100.0% | 641 |
| Seeking Employment | 81.3% | 521 |
| Not Seeking Employment | 15.4% | 99 |
| – Returning to Previous Employer (Sponsored) | 10.3% | 66 |
| – Starting Own Business (Entrepreneurship) | 3.9% | 25 |
| – Continuing Education | 0.5% | 3 |
| – Postponing Job Search | 0.5% | 3 |
| – Not Seeking for Other Reasons | 0.3% | 2 |
| Not Responding to Survey | 3.3% | 21 |
Job Offers & Acceptances
| Employment Status | At Graduation | Three Months Post-Graduation |
| Job Offers | 76.0% | 86.8% |
| Job Acceptances | 71.2% | 84.1% |
- Strong job placement: 86.8% of graduates secured offers within three months, reflecting Booth’s strong employer relationships.
- Entrepreneurial focus: 3.9% of graduates chose to start their own businesses, showcasing Booth’s commitment to innovation.
Salary Breakdown
| Metric | U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents | International Graduates | All Graduates |
| Minimum Salary | $102,000 | $73,000 | $73,000 |
| Maximum Salary | $400,000 | $275,000 | $400,000 |
| Median Salary | $175,000 | $175,000 | $175,000 |
Salaries by Undergraduate Major
| Undergraduate Major | Percentage of Hires | Median Salary (US $) |
| Business | 51.4% | $175,000 |
| Technical (STEM) | 30.4% | $175,000 |
| Other | 18.3% | $175,000 |
Salaries by Years of Experience
| Years of Experience | Percentage of Hires | Median Salary (US $) |
| Less than 1 year | 1.4% | $192,000 |
| 1 to 3 years | 5.0% | $175,000 |
| 3 to 5 years | 39.3% | $175,000 |
| More than 5 years | 54.3% | $175,000 |
- Higher salaries for experienced hires: Those with more than 5 years of experience received offers up to $400,000, reflecting strong career growth potential.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Percentage of Hires | Median Salary (US $) | Median Sign-On Bonus (US $) |
| Consulting | 33.8% | $190,000 | $30,000 |
| Financial Services | 32.9% | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| – Investment Banking | 9.4% | $175,000 | $52,500 |
| – Private Equity | 6.4% | $175,000 | Insufficient Data |
| – Investment Management | 2.5% | $182,500 | $30,000 |
| Technology | 14.8% | $152,000 | $37,500 |
| Healthcare | 4.1% | $145,000 | $30,000 |
| Consumer Products | 2.3% | $128,000 | $40,000 |
| Media/Entertainment | 1.1% | $169,000 | $25,000 |
| Law | 2.7% | $225,000 | $25,000 |
| Real Estate | 1.6% | $140,000 | $9,000 |
| Retail | 0.9% | Insufficient Data | Insufficient Data |
Key Insights:
- Consulting continues to be the most popular career path (33.8%), offering a median salary of $190,000.
- Financial services remains strong (32.9%), with private equity and investment banking paying up to $400,000 for top hires.
- Technology attracts 14.8% of graduates, offering a median salary of $152,000 with strong sign-on bonuses.
Employment by Function
| Function | Percentage of Hires | Median Salary (US $) | Median Sign-On Bonus (US $) |
| Consulting | 35.2% | $190,000 | $30,000 |
| Finance | 35.6% | $175,000 | Insufficient Data |
| – Investment Banking | 16.4% | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| – Private Equity | 7.1% | $185,000 | Insufficient Data |
| – Investment Management | 3.9% | $172,500 | $35,000 |
| General Management | 5.7% | $157,500 | Insufficient Data |
| Product Management (Tech) | 7.3% | $169,100 | $40,000 |
Key Insights:
- Consulting and finance functions dominate Booth hiring, each accounting for over 35% of graduates.
- Product management in technology is a growing sector, offering a median salary of $169,100 with a $40,000 sign-on bonus.
Employment by Location
| Region | Percentage of Hires | Median Salary (US $) |
| United States | 94.1% | $175,000 |
| – Northeast | 29.9% | $175,000 |
| – Midwest | 29.9% | $180,000 |
| – West Coast | 20.8% | $169,100 |
| – South | 4.3% | $165,000 |
| International | 5.9% | $130,000 |
- Chicago and New York are top employment hubs, with salaries reaching $181,500 and $175,000, respectively.
- West Coast placements (Bay Area & Seattle) offer competitive salaries, particularly in tech roles.
- International salaries tend to be lower, with a median of $130,000, though some roles in Asia and Latin America offer competitive pay.
Key Takeaways
- Booth MBA graduates command strong salaries, with a median base salary of $175,000 across industries.
- Consulting (33.8%) and finance (32.9%) dominate hiring, while technology (14.8%) continues to grow.
- Significant employer engagement: 73% of graduates secured jobs through Booth-facilitated efforts, showcasing the strength of the school’s career services.
- Location matters: The Midwest and Northeast are the top destinations, though West Coast salaries remain strong for tech roles.
Booth’s robust employment outcomes solidify its reputation as a top MBA program for career advancement across consulting, finance, and technology sectors.
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Chicago Booth MBA Cost of Attendance and Scholarships
Pursuing an MBA at Chicago Booth is a significant financial commitment, but the program offers multiple funding options to make the experience accessible to a diverse group of students. Below is a detailed breakdown of the cost of attendance and available financial aid options.
Estimated Cost of Attendance (2024–2025)
Chicago Booth’s cost of attendance covers tuition, fees, living expenses, books, and other personal costs.
| Expense | MBA Class of 2026 | JD/MBA | Accelerated MBA | MPCS/MBA | ADS/MBA | BioMed/MBA | MD/MBA |
| Tuition | $84,198 | $122,823 | $92,619 | $87,357 | $112,263 | $112,263 | $112,263 |
| Student Services Fee | $1,452 | $1,452 | $1,452 | $1,452 | $1,452 | $1,452 | $1,452 |
| Admin. Service Fee (First year only) | $3,000 | $0 | $3,000 | $3,000 | $3,000 | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Lifetime Transcript Fee | $78 | $78 | $78 | $78 | $78 | $78 | $78 |
| Books & Course Materials | $549 | $1,788 | $549 | $549 | $549 | $549 | $549 |
| Housing & Food | $26,010 | $19,593 | $26,010 | $26,010 | $26,010 | $26,010 | $26,010 |
| Misc. Personal Expenses | $7,250 | $8,438 | $7,250 | $7,250 | $7,250 | $7,250 | $7,250 |
| Transportation | $1,800 | $2,671 | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| Computer Allowance (First year only) | $1,600 | $0 | $1,600 | $1,600 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $125,937 | $156,841 | $134,358 | $129,096 | $152,402 | $152,402 | $152,402 |
Key Considerations:
- Tuition for the two-year program is $168,396, covering up to 2,200 units of coursework (with 2,000 units required for graduation).
- Additional costs may arise from extracurricular activities like Random Walks, Industry Treks, student clubs, and networking events.
- Health insurance is required and included in the total estimate.
Scholarships, Fellowships, and Financial Aid
Booth offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to ensure students can afford their MBA.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Chicago Booth provides numerous merit-based scholarships, awarded at the time of admission. These scholarships are determined by academic merit, career aspirations, leadership qualities, and diversity factors. There is no separate application—all applicants are automatically considered.
Notable Scholarship Awards
Below are some of the key scholarships available:
- A.H. Tobaccowala Fellowship
- Canfield Private Equity Fellowship
- Chicago Booth Opportunity Scholarship
- David W. Fox Scholarship
- Dennis W. and Jane B. Carlton Fellowship
- Distinguished Fellowship
- Ehara Scholarship
- Forté Foundation Fellowship (for women leaders)
- Global Innovator Fellowships
- Herman Family Fellowship for Women Entrepreneurs
- Kilts Fellowship (for students in marketing & data analytics)
- Marvin Zonis International Scholarship
- Siebel Scholars Program (awarded in the second year)
- The University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Program
- Zmijewski Scholarship
Veteran and Military Benefits
Yellow Ribbon Program
Booth participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which supplements the Post-9/11 GI Bill® for eligible veterans. This benefit covers tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. Eligible veterans can apply through the University Registrar to receive additional tuition support.
Student Loans
Booth offers a variety of loan options to assist students with financing their MBA:
For U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents
- Direct Unsubsidized Loan: Up to $20,500 per year, available to students enrolling in at least 200 units per quarter.
- Direct Grad PLUS Loan: A credit-based loan for students who need additional financing beyond the Direct Unsubsidized Loan.
- Private Alternative Loans: Credit-based loans that students can use to borrow up to the full cost of attendance.
For International Students
Booth provides private loan options for international students, even for those without a U.S. co-signer. These loans vary depending on the student’s country of residence and financial background. More details are available on the Admitted Student Website.
Key Takeaways
- Total MBA cost: Estimated at $125,937 for the first year, covering tuition, living expenses, and fees.
- Robust merit-based scholarships: All admitted students are automatically considered for awards based on merit and leadership potential.
- Yellow Ribbon Program: Supports U.S. military veterans to fund tuition expenses.
- Flexible loan options: Available for both domestic and international students.
Booth’s financial aid and scholarship programs ensure that talented students can access a top-tier MBA without financial barriers.
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Chicago Booth MBA Admissions
The Chicago Booth MBA admissions process is designed to evaluate candidates holistically, considering academic ability, leadership potential, career goals, and cultural fit. With a rigorous selection process, Booth looks for students who thrive in a data-driven, collaborative, and entrepreneurial environment. Below is a detailed breakdown of the admissions criteria, application components, and deadlines.
What Booth Looks For in Applicants
Booth follows a holistic review process, evaluating candidates based on three primary criteria:
| Evaluation Area | What Booth Looks For | How You Can Demonstrate This |
| Academic Preparedness | Intellectual curiosity, strong analytical skills, and ability to handle rigorous coursework. | GPA, GMAT/GRE, academic achievements, professional certifications. |
| Leadership & Community Engagement | Ability to lead, collaborate, and contribute to the Booth community. | Work experience, extracurriculars, volunteer work, recommendations. |
| Career Potential | A strong professional trajectory, well-defined goals, and resourcefulness. | Resume, letters of recommendation, responses to application essays. |
Booth does not have a minimum GMAT or GRE requirement, and both GMAT and GRE scores are equally accepted. Booth also accepts the GMAT Focus Edition and the shortened GRE.
International applicants must submit an English proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo) unless they meet certain exemptions.
Application Components
To apply for the Booth Full-Time MBA Program, candidates must submit the following materials:
1. Online Application
Applicants must complete the online application, which includes personal and professional details, and submit it before the application deadline.
2. Essays
Applicants must respond to the following essay questions:
- Essay 1: How will a Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (Minimum 250 words, no maximum.)
- Essay 2: An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of the office. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are… (Minimum 250 words, no maximum.)
- Optional Essay: Is there any unclear information in your application that needs further explanation? (Maximum 300 words.)
- Reapplicants: Upon reflection, how has your perspective regarding your future, Chicago Booth, and/or getting an MBA changed since the time of your last application? (Maximum 300 words.)
Booth recommends using strategic storytelling and making the best use of available space to communicate your authentic self.
3. Professional Resume
A one-page resume that highlights your professional experience, achievements, and extracurricular involvement.
4. Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from individuals who can provide detailed insights into their professional and leadership capabilities.
- One letter must be from a current or past supervisor.
- The second letter can be from another professional contact, mentor, or someone who can provide a different perspective on your skills.
What Recommenders Are Asked to Answer:
- How do the applicant’s performance, potential, background, or personal qualities compare with those of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles?
- Please describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant’s response.
5. Transcripts
Unofficial scanned transcripts are required at the time of application. Official transcripts are only required upon admission.
- Must include all postsecondary coursework.
- Transcripts must be in English or officially translated.
- Booth reserves the right to evaluate foreign credentials to determine equivalency.
6. GMAT/GRE Scores
Applicants must self-report their GMAT or GRE scores at the time of application. Booth accepts:
- GMAT (including GMAT Focus Edition)
- GRE (including shortened GRE)
- At-home GMAT and GRE (as provided by testing organizations during COVID-19)
Test Codes
- GMAT Code: H9X-9F-34
- GRE Code: 0685
Scores are valid for five years from the test date.
7. English Language Proficiency (For International Applicants)
Non-native English speakers must submit scores from one of the following:
| Test | Minimum Required Score |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 104 |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7 |
| PTE | 70 |
| Duolingo | 135 |
Booth does not accept TOEFL MyBest Scores.
8. Application Fee
A $250 non-refundable application fee is required. Fee waivers are available for military applicants and individuals facing financial hardship.
Application Deadlines
Booth follows a three-round admissions process, plus a special round for deferred MBA applicants (Booth Scholars Program).
| Round | Application Deadline | Decision Notification |
| Round 1 | September 19, 2024 | December 5, 2024 |
| Round 2 | January 7, 2025 | March 27, 2025 |
| Round 3 | April 3, 2025 | May 22, 2025 |
| Booth Scholars (Deferred MBA) | April 29, 2025 | July 1, 2025 |
Booth strongly encourages international applicants to apply in Round 1 or Round 2 to ensure sufficient time for visa processing.
Interview Process
Booth interviews are by invitation only.
- Interviews are conducted by a Booth alum, a current student, or an admissions officer.
- The interview is a behavioral-based assessment, focusing on past experiences, leadership abilities, and motivations.
- Interviews can be conducted virtually or in person at global locations.
- Being invited for an interview is not a guarantee of admission.
Key Takeaways for Booth MBA Admissions
- Holistic Review Process: Booth evaluates applicants on academic ability, leadership, career potential, and contributions to the community.
- No Minimum GMAT/GRE Requirement: Scores are considered in context, and both GMAT and GRE are accepted.
- Rigorous Essay Process: Two required essays focus on career goals and personal growth.
- Letters of Recommendation Matter: Booth prefers insights from current or past supervisors who can assess strengths and weaknesses.
- Highly Selective Admissions: The Booth MBA has a competitive admissions process, and interviews are by invitation only.
- Rolling Deadlines: Booth has three rounds, plus a deferred MBA round for early-career applicants.
Booth seeks students who will thrive in its analytical, flexible, and collaborative MBA environment—so take time to craft an authentic and compelling application!
Final Thoughts
The Chicago Booth MBA stands out for its data-driven approach, flexible curriculum, and strong emphasis on analytical thinking. With one of the highest employment rates and median salaries among top MBA programs, Booth equips its graduates with the skills and network to thrive in diverse industries, from consulting and finance to technology and entrepreneurship.
Booth’s pay-it-forward culture, rigorous academics, and global reputation make it a premier choice for aspiring leaders looking to challenge conventional thinking, drive business impact, and lead with confidence.
If you’re ready to apply to Chicago Booth, ensure your application highlights your intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and career vision. Given the program’s selectivity, a strong GMAT/GRE score, compelling essays, and impactful recommendations can significantly impact your admissions outcome.
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