Cornell University Johnson Full-time MBA Program: 2025 Business School Ranking
Looking for a top-tier MBA program that blends academic excellence with real-world impact for 2026?
The Cornell Johnson MBA 2025 program stands out as one of the most selective and outcomes-focused business education options in the United States.
Cornell Johnson consistently ranks among the top 15 MBA programs nationwide.
Cornell’s Johnson Graduate School of Management delivers a transformative two-year MBA experience.
- Acceptance rate: 17%
- Average GMAT: 730
- 95% employment rate within three months of graduation
The program combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning. The sustainability-focused curriculum and innovative MBA/MCS dual degree option prepare students for the evolving business world.
Cornell Johnson prepares students for sustainability leadership in business. The program offers specialized tracks that match industry demand for environmentally conscious leaders.
A strong alumni network and strategic location unlock access to Wall Street and emerging green economy careers.
Cornell University Johnson Graduate School of Management Key Metrics 2025
| Key Metric | 2025 Data |
|---|---|
| U.S. News Rank | #15 |
| Acceptance Rate | 17% |
| Average GMAT | 730 |
| Average GPA | 3.6 |
| Class Size | 280 |
| Employment at Graduation | 85% |
| Employment 3 Months Out | 95% |
| Median Base Salary | $175,000 |
| Total Program Cost | $245,000 |
| Average Scholarship | $45,000 |
Key Takeaways
- Exceptional career outcomes: 95% employment rate, $175,000 median salary
- Innovative sustainability curriculum and dual-degree options
- Strong alumni network and strategic Ithaca location for finance and green economy careers
Overview of the Cornell Johnson Business School MBA 2025 Program
The Cornell Johnson MBA 2025 program blends academic rigor with real-world experience.
You gain access to a collaborative community and industry connections.
Program Structure and Curriculum: Full-time MBA Programs
Cornell Johnson runs a two-year MBA program with 64 credit hours.
The curriculum features flexible core requirements and specialized immersion experiences.
You learn through hands-on projects and leadership development.
Core Curriculum, Academic Approach and Faculty
Your first year focuses on 10 required core courses.
These cover Financial Accounting, Marketing Management, Operations Management, and Strategic Management.
You can complete core requirements across both years.
No need to overload one semester.
Core Courses Include:
- Financial Accounting & Reporting
- Managerial Economics
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Strategic Management
- Leadership & Organizational Behavior
Second-year students choose from over 150 elective courses in 12 concentration areas.
Popular concentrations:
- Asset Management
- Tech Strategy
- Sustainable Global Enterprise
40% of incoming students cite sustainability as a major reason for applying.
Immersion Learning and Experiential Opportunities
Immersion Learning The Cornell Johnson’s signature experience is renowned in the US News rankings.
You spend one week working with real companies on live business challenges.
January Immersion Options:
- Consulting Immersion – Work with Fortune 500 clients
- Investment Banking Immersion – Wall Street experience
- Tech Immersion – Silicon Valley partnerships
- International Immersion – Global business exposure
The Student-Led Investment Fund manages over $3 million in real assets.
You join investment committees and make real portfolio decisions.
Consulting Projects connect you with regional businesses for real impact.
Study Tours take you to business hubs like New York City, San Francisco, and international destinations.
You visit company headquarters and meet senior executives.
Leadership Development Initiatives
The Leadership Development Program runs for both years.
It includes mandatory workshops, 360-degree feedback, and executive coaching.
You complete personality assessments and create growth plans.
First-Year Leadership Course uses case studies and simulations.
You practice high-pressure decision-making.
Student Government offers leadership with a $200,000+ annual budget.
Committee roles include Academic Affairs and Career Services.
Mentorship Programs connect you with alumni executives and second-year students.
You participate in monthly check-ins and set structured goals.
Leadership Roles are available in 40+ student clubs like Investment Club, Consulting Club, and Entrepreneurship Organization.
Many clubs manage five-figure budgets and host major conferences.
Cornell University Johnson Graduate School of Management – MBA Class Profile 2025
The Cornell Johnson MBA Class of 2025 features 285 students from diverse backgrounds.
They bring strong academic credentials and real-world work experience.
Median GMAT score: 730
Students represent 35 countries and a range of industries.
Enrollment Demographics and Diversity at the Cornell Community
The Class of 2025 reflects Cornell Johnson’s commitment to diversity.
Women: 42%
Underrepresented minorities: 35%
International students: 28%
Top international groups come from India, China, and Brazil.
| Demographic Category | Class of 2025 |
|---|---|
| Total Class Size | 285 students |
| Women | 42% |
| Underrepresented Minorities | 35% |
| International Students | 28% |
| Countries Represented | 35 |
| Average Age | 28 years |
Students range from 24 to 34 years old.
Most are between 26 and 30, bringing maturity and professional insight.
Median GMAT Score and Academic Stats
Median GMAT: 730
GMAT 80% Range: 680–760
Median GRE Quant: 165
Median GRE Verbal: 161
Average Undergrad GPA: 3.6
GPA 80% Range: 3.3–3.8
| Academic Metric | Class Profile Data |
|---|---|
| Median GMAT | 730 |
| GMAT Range (80%) | 680-760 |
| Median GRE Quant | 165 |
| Median GRE Verbal | 161 |
| Average Undergrad GPA | 3.6 |
| GPA Range (80%) | 3.3-3.8 |
25% graduated from Ivy League schools.
18% earned degrees from top international universities.
STEM backgrounds: 38%
Business/Economics: 24%
Liberal Arts: 22%
Professional Backgrounds and Work Experience
Students bring an average of 5.2 years of work experience.
Most have between 3 and 10 years in the workforce.
Consulting and financial services lead industry backgrounds.
Technology is the fastest-growing sector.
| Industry Background | Percentage | Top Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Consulting | 28% | McKinsey, BCG, Bain |
| Financial Services | 22% | Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Citi |
| Technology | 18% | Google, Microsoft, Apple |
| Healthcare/Pharma | 12% | Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer |
| Manufacturing | 8% | General Electric, 3M |
| Non-profit/Government | 7% | Peace Corps, World Bank |
| Other Industries | 5% | Various sectors |
Military veterans: 8%
Entrepreneurs/startup experience: 15%
Pre-MBA average salary: $85,000
Salary range: $55,000 to $150,000, depending on industry and location.
Admissions and Application Process
The Cornell Johnson MBA uses a competitive admissions process.
Acceptance rate: about 25%
You need to submit GMAT/GRE scores, essays, and proof of professional experience.
Application deadlines run from September through April.
The school looks for academic capability, leadership potential, and career progression.
Application Requirements and Methodology
Submit your application through the Cornell Johnson online portal.
The committee reviews your academic and professional background.
Academic Credentials:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary schools
- GMAT score (680-760, middle 80th percentile) or GRE equivalent
- TOEFL/IELTS scores for international applicants (minimum 100 TOEFL iBT)
Professional Documentation:
- Current resume with 2–6 years of post-graduation work experience
- Two professional recommendation letters from supervisors or colleagues
- Four required essays on leadership, career goals, and Johnson fit
| Application Component | Details | Submission Format |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | Personal/academic information | Online portal |
| Essays | 4 required essays (300–400 words each) | PDF upload |
| Recommendations | 2 professional references | Online submission |
| Test Scores | GMAT/GRE + TOEFL/IELTS | Official score reports |
| Transcripts | All undergraduate/graduate coursework | Sealed official copies |
| Resume | Professional experience summary | PDF format |
Ready to take the next step? The Cornell Johnson MBA 2025 offers a rigorous, supportive, and innovative pathway to business leadership.
Start your journey today.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The MBA Class of 2025 uses a clear application process with three rounds. Early applicants get priority for merit scholarships and fellowships.
Application Timeline:
| Round | Application Deadline | Interview Invitations | Decision Release | Deposit Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | September 25, 2025 | November 2025 | December 18, 2025 | February 1, 2026 |
| Round 2 | January 8, 2026 | February 2026 | March 26, 2026 | May 1, 2026 |
| Round 3 | April 2, 2026 | May 2026 | May 28, 2026 | June 15, 2026 |
Interview Process
Admissions staff or alumni invite about 40-50% of applicants to interviews.
Each interview lasts 30 minutes and covers leadership, career goals, and program fit is a key consideration in the methodology behind business school rankings.
Scholarship Consideration
Round 1 applicants get top priority for merit-based awards. Awards include the Park Fellowship ($30,000/year) and the Forté Fellowship The scholarship for women is set at $25,000, making it competitive among business schools by Bloomberg.
Evaluation Criteria
Cornell Johnson uses a holistic admissions approach. The committee values diverse backgrounds and strong leadership.
Academic Capability (30%)
- Undergraduate GPA and course rigor
- GMAT/GRE scores for quantitative skills
- Extra certifications or academic achievements
Professional Experience (35%)
- Quality of work experience, with an average of 4 years
- Leadership growth and higher responsibilities
- Measurable impact in past roles
Personal Qualities (35%)
- Leadership in extracurriculars or community
- Fit with Johnson’s collaborative culture
- Well-defined career goals and timing for an MBA
| Evaluation Factor includes aspects such as industry-specific experience and business analytics skills. | Weight | Key Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Performance | 30% | GPA, test scores, course difficulty |
| Professional Impact | 35% | Leadership, progression, achievements |
| Personal Leadership | 20% | Community, teamwork |
| Cultural Fit | 15% | Values, class diversity |
Diversity Considerations are essential in the rankings from the Financial Times.
The MBA program welcomes 35% international students and 44% women. Students come from many industries and regions, enriching the learning experience.
Executive MBA and Specialized Programs Among Top U.S. Business Education
Cornell Johnson designs executive programs for professionals who want to advance while working. The school offers flexible learning to fit busy schedules.
Overview of Executive MBA Offerings
The Cornell Executive MBA targets mid-career leaders. You attend classes one weekend each month for 20 months and keep your job.
You experience both on-campus and online learning. Each residency weekend offers intense courses in finance, strategy, marketing, and operations.
Key program features:
- Global business trip to emerging markets
- Executive coaching during the program
- Capstone consulting project with real companies
- Access to Cornell’s powerful alumni network
The curriculum focuses on real-world business challenges. You build strategic thinking while solving problems at work.
Small class sizes encourage networking and peer learning. The Executive MBA program keeps skills current for today’s leaders.
Executive MBA Student Profile
Most Executive MBA students bring 8-12 years of experience. Many hold senior roles or run their own businesses.
Classes include people from technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturingThe program offers various benefits, including MBA networking opportunities, and more. This diversity drives dynamic discussions.
Typical student characteristics:
| Profile Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Age | 35-40 years |
| Work Experience | 8-12 years |
| Management Level | Director, VP, or C-suite |
| Industry Mix | Technology, finance, manufacturing, consulting |
Students often pay tuition themselves or get company support. Many aim for C-level roles soon.
You join a close-knit cohort and build lasting professional relationships at the best business school. The network you create can help your career for years.
Additional Master’s Degree Options
Cornell Johnson also offers specialized master’s programs for working professionals pursuing full-time MBA programs at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School.
These programs help you gain expertise in key fields.
The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) lets you build focused skills while working. Choose from healthcare, real estate, and nonprofit management.
Cornell provides dual degree programs too, the best business school emphasizes diversity considerations. Popular options include MBA/JD, MBA/MD, and MBA/MPA.
Professional master’s options:
- MPS in Management – General management
- MPS in Real Estate – Property and investment
- MPS in Healthcare Leadership – Healthcare administration
Most programs last 12-18 months. Classes meet on weekends or evenings for your convenience.
The Cornell SC Johnson College of Business teaches sustainability in all programs. You learn how environmental and social issues shape business.
Expertise, Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Cornell Johnson MBA graduates see excellent employment outcomes. 95% find jobs within three months, joining a global alumni network of over 11,000 professionals.
Employment Data Statistics for MBA Graduates
The MBA Class of 2025 enjoys strong job offers in many industries. 93% receive offers at graduation, rising to 95% within three months.
Median starting salary is $175,000. With bonuses, total compensation averages $205,000.
Top employment sectors:
| Industry | Percentage | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | 28% | $180,000 |
| Consulting | 25% | $185,000 |
| Financial Services | 22% | $170,000 |
| Healthcare | 12% | $165,000 |
| Consumer Goods | 8% | $160,000 |
| Other | 5% | $155,000 |
65% of roles are in leadership positions. The program ranks high for career growth.
Recruitment and Corporate Partnerships
Over 200 companies recruit at Cornell Johnson. Top employers include McKinsey, Amazon, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, and Johnson & Johnson.
The school runs three major recruiting seasons each year, the best business school evaluates its performance in MBA rankings.
Fall targets consulting and banking, while spring focuses on tech and corporate jobs.
Corporate partnerships offer:
- Guest speakers from top firms
- Case competitions with Fortune 500 sponsors
- Consulting projects on real business issues at the best business school.
- Internships at partner companies
MBA students get access to exclusive recruiting events and first-round interviews. Many leadership development programs seek Cornell grads.
Alumni Engagement and Resources
The alumni network covers 11,000+ professionals in 65 countries. Many alumni lead top companies.
Alumni resources:
- Weekly career coffee chats
- Networking events are crucial for the top 10 business school rankings. in major cities
- Mentorship programs
- Industry-specific alumni groups
Alumni networking helps students connect with Johnson School leaders.
Alumni career services are available for life. Regional chapters in New York, San Francisco, London, and more host events.
Alumni giving rates are over 45%, supporting scholarships and program growth.
Rankings, Costs, and Financial Aid
Cornell Johnson ranks among the top business schools. The program offers many scholarships and aid options to help with costs.
Recent MBA Rankings, Recognition and Innovation
The school ranks in the top 15-20 MBA programs in the U.S. U.S. News & World Report puts Johnson at #16 for 2024 and #15 for 2025.
Global rankings also place Johnson in the top 25 for finance and consulting. The Tech MBA track and alumni network earn special praise.
| Ranking Organization | 2024 Position | Previous Year | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report | #16 | #15 | -1 |
| Financial Times Global | #22 | #20 | -2 |
| Bloomberg Businessweek | #18 | #19 | +1 |
| Poets & Quants | #14 | #16 | +2 |
Rankings guide students in making informed choices.
Tuition and Estimated Expenses
The total cost for the 2024-2025 MBA is about $235,000 for two years. Tuition is $73,596 per year.
Living in Ithaca adds to the cost. Housing and meals run between $18,000 and $25,000 The program attracts a diverse group of students each year, including those from European MBA rankings.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost | Two-Year Total |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $73,596 | $147,192 |
| Room & Board | $21,500 | $43,000 |
| Books & Supplies | $2,800 | $5,600 |
| Personal Expenses | $3,500 | $7,000 |
| Healthcare | $3,200 | $6,400 |
| Transportation | $2,400 | $4,800 |
| Total Estimated | $107,000 | $214,000 |
Other costs may include travel for interviews, networking, and internships. International students should plan for visa and travel expenses.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Cornell Johnson awards merit-based scholarships to about 65% of MBA students. The average scholarship award ranges from $25,000-$40,000 per student.
The school does not offer need-based grants for MBA students. You can explore several other funding options.
Financial aid helps you manage the rising costs of higher education. Johnson offers graduate assistantships and work-study programs.
The Park Leadership Fellowship stands out as the most prestigious award. It covers full tuition plus a stipend for truly exceptional candidates.
The Johnson Diversity Fellowship supports underrepresented students. This fellowship provides partial tuition coverage.
Key Scholarships at Cornell Johnson:
| Scholarship Type | Award Amount | Recipients | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Fellowship | Full tuition + stipend | 3-5 students | Leadership excellence |
| Merit Scholarships | $15,000-$60,000 | 65% of class | Academic/professional achievement |
| Diversity Fellowships | $20,000-$45,000 | 15-20 students | Underrepresented backgrounds |
| Graduate Assistantships | $8,000-$12,000 | 25-30 students | Research/teaching support |
You can also seek external funding from corporate sponsorships, military benefits, and private foundation grants.
Many students earn $15,000-$25,000 from summer internships to help pay for their second year.
BFFS Scholar Quest Frequently Asked Questions: Cornell University Johnson MBA Program: 2025 Business School Ranking
Prospective students often ask about acceptance rates, application requirements, and total program costs. Cornell Johnson’s MBA program is highly competitive and data-driven.
What is the acceptance rate for the Johnson MBA program?
The acceptance rate for Cornell Johnson’s full-time MBA is about 18-20%. This makes it one of the more selective business schools in the U.S.
Each year, the school receives over 3,000 applications for around 300 spots. Applying in early rounds gives you a better chance.
What are the application requirements for the Cornell Johnson MBA?
You must submit a completed online application through the Cornell Johnson portal. The school requires official transcripts from all universities attended and two professional recommendation letters.
You need to submit GMAT or GRE scores. The middle 80% of admitted students score between 680-750 on the GMAT.
You must also write essays and may need to complete an interview if selected, you will have the opportunity to attend one of the best business schools. International applicants must submit TOEFL scores of at least 100 or IELTS scores of 7.0 or higher.
Most admitted students have 2-6 years of professional experience. Work experience is strongly preferred.
How much are the tuition fees for the Johnson MBA at Cornell University in Ithaca?
Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is about $78,000 per year. Total annual costs, including living expenses, reach $110,000-$115,000.
Over two years, you can expect to spend $220,000-$230,000. This figure covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, and personal expenses.
About 75% of students receive some form of merit-based scholarship. The average scholarship is $35,000-$40,000 per student.
What are the application deadlines for the Cornell Johnson MBA program?
The MBA program has three application rounds each year. The Round 1 deadline is usually in mid-October, with decisions in December.
Round 2 applications are due in early January, and decisions come out in March. Round 3 closes in April, with notifications in May.
Applying in the early rounds increases your chances for admission and scholarships. Aim for Round 1 or Round 2 for the best results.
What is the typical class profile of students in the Johnson MBA program?
The average student has 4-5 years of work experience and is about 28 years old. International students make up 35-40% of the class.
Women represent about 45% of the student body. The average undergraduate GPA is 3.5-3.7.
Students come from diverse backgrounds, including business, engineering, and liberal arts.
Their professional experiences span consulting, finance, technology, and nonprofit sectors are popular among graduates of the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School..
The program includes students from over 40 countries. This diversity brings rich perspectives and industry insights to classroom discussions.
How can I access the application portal for the Cornell Johnson MBA program?
You can access the official application portal through Cornell Johnson’s admissions website.
The online application system guides you through each required step.
Create your account early to start working on your essays.
Gather all required documents before you begin.
The portal lets you save your progress and return later to finish.
If you have technical issues, the admissions office offers support.
Submit all materials before the deadline to ensure your application receives full consideration.
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