Application Trends Survey 2026 Report

Overview

Based on responses from over 1,160 graduate business school programs worldwide, the 2026 report covers changes in application volume by degree type, geography, delivery method, and much more. Additionally, it continues to track the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into business school curricula, comparing program practices with candidate demand. The 2026 survey also collected new information about trends in tuition and fees, along with financial assistance made available to incoming cohorts of students.

Quick Facts

• Total applications across global GME programs dipped 10 percent—but still grew in Europe (excluding the United Kingdom) and East and Southeast Asia, a continuation of last year’s trends.
• Apart from the executive MBA, application drops among women were less steep compared to men across MBA types.
• After several years of more Master of Accounting programs reporting application growth than declines, nearly three-quarters reported application dips. However, the total decline was concentrated among the international pipeline of candidates, with modest application growth among domestic students both globally and in the United States.
• The median annual tuition and fees for MBA programs are greater than business master’s programs.