Yale MBA vs Duke MBA: A Detailed Comparison

A detailed comparison of Yale MBA and Duke MBA — from cost to career outcomes for international students.

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Yale MBA vs Duke MBA: A Detailed Comparison

6 minutes

Introduction
Yale MBA vs Duke MBA: Quick Comparison
Program Structure & Duration
Global Rankings of Yale and Duke MBA
Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Class Profile
Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Fees & Scholarships
Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Career Outcomes
Strengths & Ideal Fit: Which One Might Suit You Better?

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Key Takeaways – Yale MBA vs Duke MBA

✅ Yale MBA: Median base salary US $160,000 and signing bonus US $30,000 for the class of 2024-25.

💼 Duke MBA: Median compensation US $175,000 for base salary and US $30,000 signing bonus; ~85% of graduates received offers within 3 months.

📊 Yale MBA: Class of 2026 features ~347 students, median GMAT 730, average work experience 4.9 years.

⭐ Duke MBA: Strong class profile and network; consulting remains ~39% of placements with base salaries at record highs.

💰 Cost-&-value: Both programmes require significant investment—evaluate fees, living expenses and scholarships in INR terms before deciding.

Introduction

The MBA programmes at Yale School of Management (Yale MBA) and Fuqua School of Business at Duke University (Duke MBA) are among the world’s most respected business degrees. Each offers a distinct culture, global network and path for career growth. When comparing Yale MBA vs Duke MBA, it really comes down to your priorities: whether you lean toward interdisciplinary leadership and a globally diverse cohort (Yale), or you aim for a strong consulting/finance trajectory with a team-based environment (Duke). This blog breaks down their latest stats, fees and outcomes so you can decide which fits you best.

Yale MBA vs Duke MBA: Quick Comparison

Before diving deeper, here’s a quick look at how the two programs stack up against each other on key parameters such as duration, cost, location, GMAT, and class profile.

Feature	Yale MBA (SOM)	Duke MBA (Fuqua)
Program Length	2 years	2 years
Location	New Haven, Connecticut (USA)	Durham, North Carolina (USA)
Median GMAT	730	710
Average GPA	3.68	3.53
Class Size	~347 students	~427 students
Average Work Experience	4.9 years	5+ years
Employment Rate (3 months)	~92%	~93%
Average Base Salary	$160,000	$155,000
Total Cost (2 years)	~$170,000	~$160,000

👉 In short: Both programs are academically strong. Yale has a reputation for its global outlook and integration with public policy and social impact, while Duke is known for leadership, teamwork, and strong placement in consulting and finance.

Program Structure & Duration

When evaluating MBA options, one of the first things students look at is how the program is structured and how long it runs. Both Yale and Duke offer two-year, full-time MBA programs, but their learning approaches are distinct.

Yale MBA: Integrated & Interdisciplinary

The Yale MBA was established to integrate business education with a global and interdisciplinary perspective.

Program Duration: 24 months (2 years)
Core Curriculum: Year one focuses on the Integrated Core Curriculum, blending business fundamentals with real-world perspectives.
Electives & Flexibility: Year two allows electives across Yale University.
Global Opportunities: Access to the Global Network for Advanced Management for exchange and modules.

This structure is ideal for students who want both a strong business foundation and the flexibility to explore cross-disciplinary interests.

Duke MBA: Leadership & Team-Focused

Duke Fuqua’s MBA is built around a team-based learning model that emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and practical problem-solving.

Program Duration: 22–24 months (Daytime MBA)
Team Fuqua Culture: Emphasis on leadership and collaboration.
Curriculum: Year one core, year two electives and concentrations.
Global Exposure: Global academic travel and study options.

👉 If you prefer a more flexible, globally oriented program, Yale stands out. But if you want a structured, leadership-focused environment that mirrors real corporate teamwork, Duke is hard to beat.

Global Rankings of Yale and Duke MBA

Rankings help reflect a school’s reputation and global standing. Both Yale SOM and Duke Fuqua consistently rank among the top MBA programs in the world.

Ranking Source	Yale MBA	Duke MBA
Financial Times Global MBA 2025	#8	#12
QS Global MBA Rankings 2026	#9	#11
U.S. News & World Report 2025	#7	#10

Yale MBA: Known for its innovative curriculum and global reach, especially strong in social impact, consulting, and public policy.
Duke MBA: Highly respected for its consulting and finance placement and strong alumni network.

👉 While Yale ranks slightly higher in most global rankings, the difference is marginal. Both are considered top-tier U.S. MBA programs with strong placement and ROI potential.

Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Class Profile

Looking at the class profile helps you understand the diversity and competitiveness of each program. It also gives you a sense of how well your own background might fit.

Yale MBA Class Profile (Class of 2026)

The Yale MBA attracts a highly diverse and globally minded cohort. The program brings together talented individuals from finance, technology, consulting, public policy, and NGOs. This mix creates a strong peer-learning environment and global exposure.

Class Size: ~347
Median GMAT: 730
Average GPA: 3.68
Average Work Experience: 4.9 years
International Students: 48%
Women in Class: 44%

Yale’s class is smaller and more diverse, attracting students from varied backgrounds—including public policy, finance, technology, and NGOs.

Duke MBA Class Profile (Class of 2026)

The Duke MBA is known for its collaborative culture and leadership-driven class environment. Most students come from consulting, technology, and corporate strategy backgrounds, making it ideal for those targeting top business roles.

Class Size: ~427
Median GMAT: 710
Average GPA: 3.53
Average Work Experience: 5+ years
International Students: 47%
Women in Class: 46%

Duke has a larger class and focuses strongly on teamwork and leadership, with many students coming from consulting, tech, and corporate strategy backgrounds.

👉 For Indian students: Yale offers a more intimate, globally diverse cohort. Duke provides a larger network and strong corporate ties—ideal for consulting or finance careers.

Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Fees & Scholarships

Cost is one of the biggest deciding factors for international students. Here’s how the numbers compare.

Feature	Yale MBA	Duke MBA
Tuition Fee (per year)	$88,300	$83,100
Estimated Total Cost (2 yrs)	~$170,000	~$160,000
Living Costs	~$30,000	~$25,000
Scholarships	Merit & need-based	Merit & leadership-based

Scholarships at Yale SOM

Merit-based and need-based awards for international students.
Global Leaders Scholarships and Forte Fellowships for women.
High GMAT and leadership experience improve chances of funding.

Scholarships at Duke Fuqua

Many merit scholarships, including full tuition awards.
International students automatically considered.
Lower living cost in Durham makes Duke slightly more affordable overall.

Yale MBA vs Duke MBA Career Outcomes

Career outcomes are a crucial part of any MBA decision. Both programs deliver excellent placement statistics and strong salary figures.

Yale MBA Career Outcomes

Employment Rate (3 months): ~92%
Median Base Salary: $160,000
Median Signing Bonus: $30,000
Top Industries: Consulting (44%), Finance (22%), Tech (10%)
Top Employers: McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Amazon, Google
Job Locations: 91% U.S., 9% International

Duke MBA Career Outcomes

Employment Rate (3 months): ~93%
Median Base Salary: $155,000
Median Signing Bonus: $30,000
Top Industries: Consulting (46%), Finance (21%), Healthcare & Tech (11%)
Top Employers: Deloitte, McKinsey, BCG, Amazon, Microsoft
Job Locations: 90% U.S., 10% International

👉 Insight: Duke has a slight edge in consulting placement, while Yale stands out in global exposure and social impact opportunities.

Strengths & Ideal Fit: Which One Might Suit You Better?

Both programs are strong, but their cultures and focus areas are different.

Yale MBA — Ideal for Global, Social & Interdisciplinary Aspirants

Best for students wanting to blend business with social impact or policy.
Strong interdisciplinary opportunities across Yale University.
Smaller class, more personalized experience.
Global brand recognition and strong network.

Duke MBA — Ideal for Consulting, Finance & Leadership-Focused Students

Best for students aiming for top consulting and finance roles.
Team Fuqua culture emphasizes leadership and collaboration.
Slightly lower cost of living.
Strong U.S. alumni network in consulting and corporate roles.

👉 In short: Yale MBA suits those who want an interdisciplinary, globally oriented program. Duke MBA suits those targeting consulting, finance, and leadership with a strong team-based culture.

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Conclusion

Choosing between Yale MBA vs Duke MBA depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred learning environment. Yale offers unmatched academic flexibility, global reach, and interdisciplinary opportunities. Duke, meanwhile, is a powerhouse for consulting and finance, with a leadership-driven culture and slightly lower overall cost.

For Indian students, both are excellent options with strong ROI, good visa prospects (OPT/H-1B), and strong placement rates. The key is to align the program strengths with your long-term goals. Both can open doors to top consulting firms, global companies, and leadership roles worldwide.

What is the average salary after Yale MBA and Duke MBA? Answer:

Yale MBA graduates earn a median salary of $160,000. Duke MBA grads earn around $175,000 plus a $30,000 signing bonus.

How long are the Yale and Duke MBA programs?

Both Yale MBA and Duke MBA are full-time, 2-year programs with internship and global learning options.

What GMAT score is needed for Yale and Duke MBA?

Yale’s median GMAT is 730, and Duke’s median GMAT is 710. A 700+ score gives a competitive edge.

What is the employment rate after graduation?

Yale MBA has around 92% job placement within 3 months, while Duke MBA has around 93%.

Which MBA is better for consulting jobs?

Both are strong, but Duke MBA has slightly higher placement in consulting firms like McKinsey and BCG.

Know Your Author

Abhyank Srinet

Study Abroad Expert

Abhyank Srinet, the founder of MiM-Essay, is a globally recognized expert in study abroad and admission consulting. His passion is helping students navigate the complex world of admissions and achieve their academic dreams. Abhyank earned a Master's degree in Management from ESCP Europe, where he developed his skills in data-driven marketing strategies, driving growth in some of the most competitive industries.

Abhyank has helped over 10,000+ students get into top business schools with a 98% success rate over the last seven years. He and his team offer thorough research, careful shortlisting, and efficient application management from a single platform.

His dedication to education also led him to create MentR-Me, an AI-powered platform that offers personalized guidance and resources, including profile evaluation, application assistance, and mentoring from alumni of top global institutions.

Continuously adopting the latest strategies, Abhyank is committed to ensuring that his clients receive the most effective guidance. His profound insights, extensive experience, and unwavering dedication have helped his clients securing of over 100 crores in scholarships, making him an invaluable asset for individuals aiming to advance their education and careers and leading both his ventures to seven-figure revenues.