Why Accreditation Matters

■  Initial accreditation boosts student enrollment, both in business undergraduate and graduate programs.

■  AACSB accreditation strongly contributes to a business school’s ability to survive in a highly-competitive environment. Schools take the opportunity to refine their missions, target markets, and strategies to stand out from the crowd.

■  AACSB-accredited schools generate more research grants and cited works.

More than 90 pieces of academic research from the last 15 years demonstrate that AACSB-accredited schools are trailblazers in teaching, research, and societal impact.
By the Numbers

73%

of the CEOs representing Fortune 100 companies and 75 percent of top paid CEOs representing S&P 500 companies have a degree from an AACSB-accredited school (2024 AACSB analysis of Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company data).

83%

of alumni from AACSB-accredited schools agree that their graduate business education increased their earning power (2022 GMAC Longitudinal Candidate Survey).

96%

of alumni from AACSB-accredited business schools are employed (2022 GMAC Longitudinal Candidate Survey).

87%

of alumni from AACSB-accredited schools agree that the skills they developed in business school advanced their careers (2022 GMAC Longitudinal Candidate Survey).

Connect to Quality

Our world needs agile leaders now more than ever. As business schools continue to innovate to meet stakeholder expectations, it’s important that they share their knowledge and insights while providing equitable educational access to lifelong learners who aspire to become business leaders and entrepreneurs.

Alex Triantis

Alex Triantis

Past Chair, AACSB Board of Directors and Dean of John Hopkins Carey Business School

Graduates from AACSB accredited business schools have received a quality education, possess diverse skill sets, embrace a global perspective and exhibit a continuous learning mindset. They bring tremendous value to our organization, contributing to our success and growth.

Deborah Caplan

EVP Human Resources, NextEra Energy

Achieving AACSB accreditation is a mission-driven, rigorous process that includes an in-depth assessment of internal activities, mentorship with an AACSB advisor, and a peer-reviewed evaluation focused on continuous improvement. This commitment is a true reflection of each school’s dedication—not only to its students, alumni network, and greater business community—but to society as a whole.

Stephanie Bryant

Executive Vice President, Chief Accreditation Officer and Managing Director of the Americas, AACSB International