Private Equity - Top 12 MBA (2024-25)

The 2024 data on MBA placements into private equity (PE) shows a clear dominance by a few top-tier schools, with Stanford Graduate School of Business leading the list. 

Stanford Leads

A significant 20% of its graduating class entered PE, accompanied by a median base salary of $200,000, among the highest in the industry. 

Stanford’s proximity to Silicon Valley plays a major role, giving students access to hybrid PE/VC roles and growth equity positions. The school’s strong focus on entrepreneurial finance and its small class size also contribute to better recruiter access and mentorship, allowing students to break into elite firms like Silver Lake and TPG.

Harvard behind Stanford in Base Salary

Harvard Business School closely trails with 19% of its students entering PE and an even higher 21.2% placed by function. Despite this strong placement, the median base salary is lower at $180,000. The lower placement compensation could be from a broader mix of post-MBA roles, including those at growth-stage and impact-focused funds. 

HBS’s powerful alumni network, including Bain Capital co-founders, and case-method pedagogy continue to attract PE firms that place a high premium on strategic thinking.

Wharton at Third Position

Wharton ranks third, with 10% of its class going into PE and 12.9% placed by function, earning a median base salary of $175,000. Although slightly lower than Harvard, Wharton’s compensation remains competitive. The school’s finance-heavy curriculum, specialized PE major, and practical platforms like the Wharton Buyout Fund contribute to its strong placement outcomes. Wharton alumni are well-represented at major firms like Carlyle, KKR, and BlackRock.

LBS – The Sole European School in the ranking at 4th

London Business School is the top European institution on the list, with 8% of its graduates entering private equity. Its median base salary of $145,010 appears lower in comparison, but this reflects standard compensation levels in the UK and Europe that might look weaker compared to the American benchmark. 

LBS benefits from being at the heart of London, home to numerous mid-market PE firms and infrastructure funds. The school’s geographic advantage and strong placement support for international students help maintain its appeal in the PE space.

Booth – Behind LBS in Representation but American’s ‘standard’ of Compensation intact

Chicago Booth places 6.4% of its students into PE, with 7.1% placed by function and a notably higher function-based salary of $185,000, indicating that those entering PE functions command stronger compensation. Booth’s rigorous finance curriculum and hands-on programs like the Private Equity Lab are instrumental in preparing students for deal execution and portfolio management. While the base salary is reported as $175,000 by industry, the variation suggests many are entering high-paying funds or roles with performance-linked upside.

Columbia at 6th

Columbia Business School reports 5.2% of graduates entering PE and 5.3% by function, with a median base salary of $165,000 and function-based compensation slightly higher at $173,000. The slight variation suggests that Columbia students may be entering both traditional PE firms and adjacent roles such as real assets or fund-of-funds. Columbia’s location in New York City provides excellent access to small and mid-market PE firms, while its Value Investing Program and strong alumni base offer a clear advantage.

INSEAD at 7th for PE – A new trend

INSEAD places 5% of its class into private equity with a median base salary of €99,900, equivalent to around $108,000–$110,000 USD, depending on exchange rates. While this is significantly lower than U.S. peers, it is reflective of the European compensation model, which often includes substantial year-end bonuses. INSEAD’s international footprint and strong presence in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East make it a powerful feeder into cross-border funds and regional PE firms.

Kellogg at 8th

Kellogg School of Management shows a more modest 3.87% placement in PE, with 2.76% placed by function and a median function-specific salary of $165,000, lower than its peers. This could be attributed to a higher concentration of students entering operational or portfolio management roles rather than deal-focused positions. Kellogg’s general management orientation, combined with a less finance-intensive curriculum compared to Wharton or Booth, may limit high-end PE placements. Still, initiatives like the Private Equity Lab and Venture Capital & PE Club provide targeted support.

MIT at 9th in PE representation but Salary Comparable to Stanford (#1)

MIT Sloan places 2.7% of its class into private equity, with a matching figure for function and a top-tier median base salary of $200,000. This high salary reflects Sloan’s strength in tech-enabled and growth equity roles, especially among firms operating at the intersection of innovation and capital. While Sloan may not place a large number of students in traditional PE roles, its Boston location and strong ties to venture and tech-focused funds boost compensation levels significantly.

Duke at 10th – Modest Representation But Competitive Base Salary

Duke Fuqua reports 2.25% of students entering PE, with only 1.44% placed by function and a median base salary of $175,000. The decent salary levels suggest that while the number of placements is small, the roles secured are competitive. Fuqua’s strength in healthcare, leadership development, and a growing focus on finance through its Asset Management Practicum help prepare a niche set of students for PE, particularly in sector-specialist roles.

Tuck at 11th – Modest Representation and Compensation Compared to Peers

Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth has a modest 2% PE placement rate, with 1% placed by function and a median base salary of $160,000. Tuck’s remote location and small class size limit its exposure to mega-funds, but the school’s strong alumni network and highly personalized career support help students land roles at regional or mid-market PE firms. The lower base salary reflects entry into smaller funds or roles with long-term performance incentives rather than high upfront pay.

Yale at 12th – Less PE and More IMPACT investing

Yale School of Management places 1.7% of its class in PE but does not report a median base salary for the category, likely due to small sample size. Yale’s program has a stronger alignment with public policy, sustainability, and impact investing, which may explain the limited representation in traditional PE. Still, students interested in mission-driven investing or ESG-focused funds can find viable pathways.

*Hiring Rate including both PE and VC