Harvard Business School (HBX) Boston Overview

Highlights

• Harvard Business School's MBA program has an acceptance rate of 13%.
• International applicants to Harvard Business School must hold a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.6 on a 4.0 scale (approximately 91%).
• Annual tuition fees for prospective students at Harvard Business School can reach up to $89,000 (around 73.86 lakhs INR).

Harvard Business School (HBS), the premier business school of Harvard University, was founded in 1908. To be admitted to the MBA program at HBS, applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.6 on a 4.0 scale (around 91%) and at least five years of professional experience. HBS looks for a high GMAT score ranging from 540 to 790. PhD applicants must have an undergraduate degree with a score in the 80th percentile to qualify.

The annual tuition for prospective students at Harvard Business School can reach up to $89,000 (approximately 73.86 lakhs INR). Graduates of HBS are well-compensated, with a reported median base salary of $175,000 (around 1.43 crore INR). HBS alumni are sought after by leading global companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM, Tesla, Facebook, Deloitte, and Bank of America, among others.

Harvard Business School Rankings

• Engineering Rankings: Harvard University is ranked #1 for Engineering and Technology by THE and #7 for the same category by QS WUR Rankings by Subject 2024. Additionally, Harvard holds the #5 spot for Mechanical Engineering according to QS.

• Business Rankings: Harvard Business School is ranked #1 in Business and Management Studies by QS WUR by Subject 2024 and #3 for Business and Economics in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024.

• Computer Science Rankings: Harvard’s Computer Science and Information Systems are ranked #7 by QS WUR Rankings by Subject and #6 by Times Higher Education.

Harvard University consistently ranks among the top 5 globally. It is positioned #4 in both the QS World University Rankings 2025 and THE World University Rankings 2024. According to U.S. News & World Report, Harvard holds the #1 spot among the Best Global Universities for 2023. These rankings reflect Harvard’s strong performance in academic reputation, employment outcomes, research quality, and industry outlook, among other factors.

Harvard University, the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in the USA, is renowned for its exceptional academic programs. It is ranked #1 globally for Environmental Science, Chemistry, and Sociology. In the US, Harvard is placed among the top 20 universities for innovation.

Harvard University World Rankings:

The table below shows Harvard University’s rankings over the past five years from various ranking bodies:

Harvard University Ranking Parameters and Methodologies:

Different ranking agencies use various parameters to evaluate and rank universities. These parameters provide insights into the university's academic performance, research quality, and career prospects for graduates.

Harvard University QS Rankings:

Harvard University scored 96.8 overall in the QS World University Rankings 2025. The rankings reflect Harvard’s excellence in academics, research, sustainability, and employability.

Harvard University U.S. News Rankings:

The U.S. News & World Report ranks universities based on 14 parameters. Below are Harvard University’s scores for these parameters:

Harvard University Times Higher Education Rankings:

Here are the ranking parameters and scores for Harvard University from THE:

Harvard University Subject-wise Rankings

Here’s a summary of Harvard University’s top subject rankings over the past four years, according to various ranking agencies:

Engineering Rankings: Harvard University has been recognized as the top global university for Engineering and Technology by THE World University Rankings for four consecutive years. Below is a detailed view of Harvard’s engineering rankings from leading agencies:

Computer Science Rankings: The evolution of Harvard University’s computer science rankings in recent years:

Natural Science Rankings: Harvard University is currently the top-ranked institution globally for Biological Sciences, Chemistry, and Psychology according to QS WUR by Subject. The university has also maintained a leading position in THE World University Rankings for Life Sciences since 2021. Here’s a look at the rankings over the past four years:

Business Rankings: Harvard Business School’s top global position in Accounting and Finance showcases its prominence as a leading business institution worldwide. Here’s a snapshot of Harvard’s business rankings:

Medical Science Rankings: Harvard University is recognized as the top institution for Medicine according to QS WUR by Subject. Here’s a look at its medical science rankings:

Humanities Rankings: Harvard University tops QS WUR by Subject in Law, Legal Studies, Politics, and History. It is also ranked as the leading law school globally by THE World University Rankings. Here’s a summary of the humanities rankings:

U.S. News Subject Rankings: Harvard University ranks #1 in almost 20 academic disciplines according to U.S. News & World Report. Here’s a summary of these rankings:

Miscellaneous Rankings:

Miscellaneous Rankings:

Here’s a snapshot of Harvard University’s reputation beyond academic rankings:

Harvard Business School Courses

Harvard Business School offers a comprehensive range of programs, including a 2-year full-time MBA, eight full-time master's programs leading to doctoral studies, and various online programs. Additionally, HBS provides executive education courses covering 74 topics for both individuals and organizations. Online programs are available in six study areas. Below are some of the top programs at HBS along with their annual tuition fees:

Master of Business Administration [M.B.A]

The Harvard MBA program is ranked #6 out of 124 in the Best Business Schools by U.S. News & World Report and #9 in QS International Trade Ranking. The class profile evolves annually based on the applicants who choose to apply and enroll at HBS. Here’s the latest profile for the Class of 2025:

Class of 2025 Profile

Total Enrollment: 938

International Students: 39%

Median GPA: 3.73 on a 4.0 scale

Average GMAT/GRE Score: GMAT: 740 | GRE: 326

Educational Background:

• Business/Commerce: 22%
• Engineering: 25%
• Economics: 21%
• Math/Physical Science: 17%
• Social Sciences: 12%
• Arts/Humanities: 4%

Average Work Experience: 4.9 years

Gender Breakdown:

• Women: 45%
• Men: 55%

The Harvard MBA program is crafted to enhance general management and leadership abilities through a curriculum focused on real-world applications. Its objective is to develop leaders adept at making tough decisions and driving change in a global context.

The curriculum is divided between required courses and experiential learning projects, ensuring a comprehensive foundation in key management disciplines. The first year includes core courses such as:

• Data Science for Managers (DSM)
• Finance 1 (FIN1)
• Financial Reporting and Control (FRC)
• Leadership & Organizational Behavior (LEAD)
• Marketing (MKT)
• Technology & Operations Management (TOM)

Harvard’s MBA program is designed not only to deepen knowledge but also to provide practical leadership experience. It aims to spark entrepreneurial ambition and prepare students to make a significant impact in their careers and communities.

Harvard Business School Campus

Harvard Business School's campus is a self-contained residential community spanning 40 acres and featuring 33 buildings. The campus environment greatly enhances the educational experience, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage with faculty outside of the classroom.

Harvard Business School Student Life

Harvard Business School boasts over 95 clubs and more than 200 leadership roles within the Student Association. Students can develop their leadership and organizational skills, pursue their interests, and build their networks through various Student Association activities. Additionally, student clubs organize events such as workshops, conferences, and talk shows, providing valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and socializing beyond academic settings.

Harvard Business School Admissions

Harvard Business School has a student population of 11,588, representing 146 countries. International applicants interested in HBS should review the following MBA admission requirements:

Harvard Business School PhD Admission Requirements

Harvard Business School Acceptance Rate

Harvard Business School has an acceptance rate of 13% for its MBA program, while the acceptance rate for its PhD program is notably low at 3%.

Harvard Business School Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Harvard Business School includes tuition and living expenses. The annual tuition fee for the Harvard MBA program is $74,910 (₹62.17 lakhs). Below is a breakdown of estimated annual expenses for international students at HBS:

Harvard Business School Scholarships

Harvard Business School offers scholarships that can cover up to the full tuition fee for both domestic and international students. Applicants are encouraged to apply for scholarships when they submit their application. HBS provides 100% tuition coverage for MBA students who demonstrate significant financial need, and approximately 50% of students receive some form of financial assistance.

On average, HBS scholarships grant $42,000 per year to each recipient, with support available for the full two-year program. Below are some of the key financial aid options for international students at Harvard Business School:

HBS Financial Aid for International Students

Additional financial aid options include:

• Search Fund Fellowship: Provides up to $60,000 per year for graduating students to cover living and career search costs. This aid is renewable for up to two years, totaling $120,000.

• Rock Center Loan Forgiveness for Entrepreneurs: A one-time, need-based award ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 for MBA graduates pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

• Loan Reduction for Private Sector Employees: A one-time, need-based reduction of $5,000 to $15,000 on loans at graduation.

Harvard Business School Placements

Harvard Business School hosts a variety of career events for its students, including the Fall Career Fair, Startup Career Fair, Career Link, and Career Assessment Activities, among others. Approximately 73% of HBS graduates secure employment shortly after graduation. Of those who receive job offers, 86% accept one, and the median base salary for HBS graduates is $175,000 (₹1.43 crore). Additionally, about 63% of employed graduates earn an average signing bonus of $30,000 (₹24.61 lakhs).

Average Annual Salaries for HBS Graduates

Top employers of HBS graduates include Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Walmart, Wayfair, MGM, Tesla, IBM, Facebook, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Adobe, Deloitte, HBO, Capital One, Bank of America, and Vivo. HBS alumni are predominantly employed in Finance and Consulting roles. Here is a breakdown of job positions and their employment rates:

Harvard Business School Alumni

The Harvard Business School (HBS) alumni network includes 89,000 members spread across 173 countries. Alumni enjoy various benefits such as access to the college’s Credit Union offers, Alumni Select, complimentary library and health & fitness services, among others.

Notable HBS Alumni

HBS graduates often pursue careers in research and teaching at leading business schools and universities worldwide. Others take on advisory roles at top corporations, work with non-profits, or launch their own businesses. The Career & Professional Development team offers tailored career guidance, making HBS a prime choice for studying abroad.

FAQs

Q: What is the acceptance rate for Harvard Business School?

A: Harvard Business School has an acceptance rate of 13% for its MBA program and 3% for its PhD program. Gaining admission to HBS is highly competitive, requiring exceptional scores and credentials.

Q: How is Harvard Business School ranked?

A: Harvard Business School consistently ranks among the top 5 business schools globally. Key rankings include:

Q: What is the tuition fee for the MBA program at Harvard Business School?

A: The annual tuition fee at Harvard Business School is up to 89,000 USD (73.86 lakhs INR). In addition to tuition, students should budget for living expenses, which can be approximately 30 lakhs INR per year for international students.

Q: Can international students apply to Harvard Business School?

A: Yes, international students are welcome at HBS. The student body includes individuals from 146 countries, with 37% of students being international. Of these, 13% are from Asian countries.

Q: What is the GMAT score requirement for Harvard Business School?

A: Harvard Business School does not have a minimum GMAT score requirement. However, it is recommended that applicants submit scores of 730 or higher. The GMAT scores for admitted students typically range from 590 to 790.

Q: What are the academic requirements for admission to Harvard Business School?

A: Applicants need a GPA of 3.6 out of 4.0 (91%) to be considered. Non-English speaking international students must also provide a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 109 or an IELTS score of 7.5.