Comparing INSEAD to the M7 Schools in the United States

When discussing top business schools, INSEAD often gets compared to the M7 schools, which consist of Harvard, Stanford, Wharton, MIT, Chicago Booth, Northwestern Kellogg, and Berkeley Haas. This comparison can be nuanced based on various factors, such as prestige, alumni reach, and program quality, particularly when viewed from different geographical perspectives.

Prestige and Alumni Reach in Different Regions

INSEAD's prestige and alumni reach can vary significantly depending on the region. In Europe and the Middle East, INSEAD is generally considered to be in a similar league to the top American programs such as Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton, and often ranks behind them.

However, when it comes to the United States, the situation is different. The name recognition of INSEAD often lags behind its American counterparts, given the dominance of these institutions in the U.S. labor market. According to some, INSEAD might be placed in the range of a top 15 to 30 school, depending on the specific criteria used.

Global Perception vs. U.S. Labor Market

A key distinction is drawn between global perception and the U.S. labor market. Globally, INSEAD is seen as a preeminent business school, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, where it often outranks the M7 schools. However, in the U.S., this advantage diminishes, and the U.S. market heavily favors domestic MBA degrees, regardless of their quality.

This preference for U.S. degrees is particularly pronounced in industries like consulting and in major cities such as New York and San Francisco, where INSEAD's brand still maintains some significance. However, this edge is often mitigated by the robust and long-established links between top American business schools and local corporate networks.

Ranking and Strength of Top MBA Programs

My opinion as a professional who has either taught at or attended four top ten business schools places INSEAD in a bracket between 15 to 30. I also find that programs such as Wharton, MIT, Chicago Booth, Stanford, Dartmouth Tuck, Duke Fuqua, and Berkeley Haas are typically ranked higher. Harvard, while not typically at the top of the list due to its specific recruitment practices, is still often included in the upper echelons.

Brand recognition and reputation matter greatly in the business world, and INSEAD, despite its excellent program quality, does not match the standing of these top American institutions. However, this assessment is subjective and can vary based on individual perspectives and specific market contexts.

It's important to note that while INSEAD is undoubtedly a great program, it is not considered to be on par with the M7 in all contexts. Therefore, when considering an MBA, it's crucial to contextualize the choice based on one's specific goals, career aspirations, and the geographical context in which one will be seeking employment.