MBA class size can be an important criterion for prospective applicants to consider when selecting a target MBA program in 2023. The size of the class can impact the quality of the learning experience, the networking opportunities, and the level of competition within the program.
Firstly, a larger class size can provide a more diverse learning experience with a wider range of perspectives and backgrounds represented. This can enhance the overall quality of discussions and group projects, allowing for a richer learning experience. Additionally, larger class sizes can result in a larger alumni network, which can be valuable for career opportunities and professional development.
On the other hand, a smaller class size can provide a more personalized learning experience, with more individual attention from professors and a stronger sense of community among classmates. This can be particularly beneficial for students who thrive in a close-knit environment and prefer a more individualized approach to learning.
How does the MBA Class of 2025 look at top MBA Programs across the world?
Harvard Business School - 1015
Insead - 1000
University of Pennsylvania: Wharton - 877
Columbia Business School - 844
Indian School of Business - 843 - 900 (approx)
University of Chicago: Booth - 621
London Business School - 509
Brock University - Goodman - 507
Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management - 503
Alberta School of Business - 500
Stanford Graduate School of Business - 424
MIT: Sloan - 408
Duke University's Fuqua School of Business - 399
University of Michigan: Ross - 380
HEC Paris - 348
University of Virginia: Darden - 348
HEC Paris - 348
Yale School of Management - 347
UCLA Anderson School of Management - 330
New York University: Stern - 324
University of Oxford: Saïd - 313
Cornell University: Johnson - 303
Dartmouth College: Tuck - 287
University of Toronto: Rotman - 275
Schulich MBA - 270
Georgetown University: McDonough - 249
University of California at Berkeley: Haas - 247
University of North Carolina: Kenan-Flagler - 242
University of Texas at Austin: McCombs - 220
University of Cambridge: Judge - 210
Carnegie Mellon: Tepper - 192
University of Southern California: Marshall - 190
Esade Business School - 184
Rice University: Jones - 160
Boston University Questrom School of Business - 154
Vanderbilt University: Owen - 147
Emory University: Goizueta - 145
Western University: Ivey - 132
Indiana University: Kelley MBA - 125
Ceibs - 120
National University of Singapore Business School - 120
University of Notre Dame: Mendoza - 120
Alliance Manchester Business School - 113
University of Rochester: Simon Business School - 112
IMD Business School - 104
UBC Sauder - 101
Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University - 100
SDA Bocconi School of Management - 97
University of Washington: Foster - 96
Washington University: Olin - 89
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management - 85
Queen's University: Smith - 78
Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business - 76
Imperial College Business School - 73
University of Georgia: Terry - 69
McMaster University - DeGroote MBA - 67
Arizona State University: WP Carey MBA - 62
University of Texas at Dallas: Jindal MBA - 55
University of Florida: Warrington MBA - 52
City, University of London: Bayes (formerly Cass) -52
Essec Business School - 50
Simon Fraser University - Beedie MBA - 50
Essec Business School MBA - 50
University of St Gallen MBA - 45
University of California at Irvine: Merage - 41 (approx)
ESMT Berlin - 37 (approx)
* These are approximate numbers from previous class profiles.
Looking at the class sizes of the listed MBA programs, there is a significant range from Harvard Business School with a class size of 1015 to ESMT Berlin with a class size of 37. Prospective applicants may want to consider how their preferred learning style aligns with the class size of their target programs. For example, if a student prefers a smaller, more intimate learning environment, they may want to focus their search on programs like Esade Business School with a class size of 184 or Western University: Ivey with a class size of 132.
Knowing the class size of an MBA program can be helpful for prospective applicants in assessing the competitiveness of the selection process. Generally speaking, the smaller the class size, the more competitive the selection process tends to be. This is because smaller classes are often associated with more personalized attention from professors, a stronger sense of community among classmates, and greater access to resources such as internships and job placements.
In contrast, larger class sizes may be associated with a less competitive selection process, as programs with larger classes may admit more students to fill their cohort. However, it's important to note that the competitiveness of the selection process is not solely determined by class size, and there may be other factors at play, such as the reputation of the program or the quality of the applicant pool.
By understanding the class size of an MBA program, prospective applicants can get a better sense of the level of competition they may face when applying. For example, if a program has a small class size and a highly selective admissions process, prospective applicants should expect to face strong competition for admission. On the other hand, if a program has a larger class size and a less selective admissions process, prospective applicants may have a better chance of being admitted.
While class size is not the only factor that determines the competitiveness of an MBA program's selection process, it can be a useful piece of information for prospective applicants to consider when deciding where to apply.
Overall, MBA class size can be an important factor to consider when selecting a target program, as it can impact the quality of the learning experience, networking opportunities, and the level of competition within the program. Prospective applicants should take the time to assess their own learning preferences and goals to determine which class size range is the best fit for them.
If you're feeling unsure about which business school to choose, why not consider seeking impressive guidance from a GOALisB MBA admission consultant? They can assist you in evaluating your profile and offer impressive support with the application process.