Business school provides entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to succeed in their venture. It offers a comprehensive curriculum of courses that are essential for running a successful business. From finance and accounting to marketing and strategy, entrepreneurs can gain the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions and develop a successful business model. Furthermore, networking with other aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals allows for the development of valuable partnerships and connections that can help further a business. With the combination of technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and networking, business school is an invaluable resource for entrepreneurs.

For aspiring and existing female founders, business school can offer a powerful springboard to success.

What Are Some Of The Key Benefits Of Business School?

Skills and Knowledge: Business school equips you with a comprehensive understanding of core business principles, including finance, marketing, accounting, operations, and leadership. This knowledge is essential for navigating the complexities of running a business.
Networking Opportunities: Business school offers a unique platform to connect with a diverse network of peers,professors, and industry professionals. This network can be a valuable source of mentorship, collaboration, and future business partnerships.
Confidence Building: Business school fosters confidence by providing the knowledge, tools, and real-world simulations to make informed decisions and lead effectively. This newfound confidence can be instrumental for female founders who may have faced challenges with imposter syndrome or underestimating their capabilities.
Access to Resources: Many business schools offer resources specifically designed to support entrepreneurs, such as incubators, accelerators, and venture capital funding opportunities. These resources can be invaluable for launching and growing your business.
Focus on Women in Business: Many business schools have programs or courses specifically tailored to the challenges and opportunities faced by female founders. These programs can provide valuable insights, role models,and a supportive community of women entrepreneurs.

What Should You Consider Before Going to Business School?

Before diving into a business school program, there are some key factors female founders should consider:

Cost vs. Benefit: Business school can be expensive. Carefully evaluate the return on investment (ROI) considering potential career advancement, salary increases, and the value it brings to your entrepreneurial aspirations.
Time Commitment: Business school programs require a significant time commitment. Weigh the demands of the program against your current business ventures and personal life to ensure you can manage the workload effectively.
Program Focus: Research different business schools and programs to find one that aligns with your specific entrepreneurial goals. Look for programs with strong entrepreneurship support, courses relevant to your industry,and a focus on women in business.
Alternatives to Traditional Programs: Explore alternative options, such as online or part-time programs,bootcamps, or executive education courses to gain valuable knowledge without a full-time commitment.

Here Is A List Of Top MBAs With Benefits For Female Founders

1. Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

What, like it’s hard? Harvard Business School applicants must submit either a GMAT or GRE score to be considered for admission. The school doesn’t have preference for one test over the other. On average, admitted HBS students accepted last year had a 730 GMAT score. In 2021, HBS reported an acceptance rate of 13%. TOEFL scores are required for international applicants. HBS offers two application deadlines each year and currently enrolls 1,609 full-time MBA students. Two letters of recommendation are needed to apply. The median base salary for graduating MBA students is $150,500.

Here is why HBS is great for female founders:

Powerhouse Network and Mentorship:

Alumnae Network: HBS has a vast and active network of successful female alumni entrepreneurs. This network provides invaluable access to mentors who can offer guidance, share their experiences, and open doors to potential investors or collaborators.
Arthur Rock Center for Entrepreneurship: This renowned center fosters a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem at HBS. It offers mentorship programs, workshops, and speaker series specifically designed to support aspiring founders, with a strong focus on women-led ventures.
Forté Foundation Fellows Program: This prestigious program attracts high-caliber women with entrepreneurial aspirations and connects them with mentors and resources specifically tailored for success.

Resources and Funding for Women-Led Businesses:

Angels@Harvard: This angel investor group is composed primarily of HBS alumni and provides crucial seed funding for promising startups, with a focus on ventures led by women.
Women's Venture Capital Fund: Founded by HBS graduates, this venture capital fund specifically invests in teams with at least one woman founder, addressing the persistent gender gap in venture capital funding.
Physical Resources: HBS offers dedicated co-working spaces and incubators specifically designed to support student entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Focus on Gender Parity and Inclusive Leadership:

Case Studies and Curriculum: HBS integrates case studies and course materials that highlight the experiences and successes of female founders. This exposure challenges traditional business narratives and inspires future generations.
Faculty Expertise: HBS has renowned faculty members who actively research and write about gender bias in the business world and strategies for women to achieve leadership success.
Inclusive Culture: HBS fosters a diverse and inclusive environment that encourages women to be confident leaders and promotes their unique contributions to the business world.

Reputation and Brand Recognition:

Global Recognition: The HBS name carries immense weight in the business world, opening doors to potential investors, partners, and employees for female founders.
Signal of Quality: A degree from HBS is a prestigious credential that demonstrates a founder's commitment to excellence and strengthens their credibility in the eyes of investors and stakeholders.
Competitive Advantage: The skills, network, and experience gained at HBS can equip female founders with a competitive edge in the often challenging startup landscape.

While an HBS degree can be a significant investment, the unique combination of resources, mentorship, funding opportunities, and prestigious brand recognition make it a compelling option for female founders seeking to propel their ventures to success. It's important to note that exceptional female founders can emerge from various backgrounds and educational paths. However, HBS offers a targeted and supportive environment specifically designed to empower women in the business world.

2. University of Chicago (Booth)

Chicago, IL

University of Chicago (Booth) MBA applicants must submit either a GMAT or GRE score to be considered for admission. The program requires two letters of recommendation. Among students accepted last year, the average GMAT score was 732 and the average undergraduate GPA was 3.54. TOEFL scores are required for international applicants. The acceptance rate in 2021 was 23%. Booth MBA students earn a median salary of $155,000 after graduating.

Here is why Chicago Booth is great for female founders:

History of Achievement: The University of Chicago Booth was the first university to award a Ph.D. in business to a woman. This legacy reflects a long-standing commitment to fostering the success of female leaders.
Women at Booth: This student-led organization provides a strong support network, professional development opportunities, and a sense of community for female founders at Booth. They offer workshops, speaker series, and exclusive recruiting events tailored to women's needs.
Flexible Programs: Booth offers various program options, including full-time, evening, and weekend MBA programs, allowing women to balance their entrepreneurial pursuits with their academic journey.

Focus on Practical Skills and Real-World Applications:

Entrepreneurial Curriculum: Booth's curriculum emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications.Courses like "Building the New Venture" and "New Venture Finance" provide founders with the tools and knowledge they need to launch and grow their businesses.
Industry Experts: The faculty at Booth consists of renowned scholars and experienced practitioners who can offer valuable insights and guidance based on their expertise in various industries.
Focus on Decision Making: Booth's curriculum hones critical thinking and decision-making skills, crucial for navigating the complexities of running a business.

Access to Resources and Funding:

UChicago Innovation Network: This network connects Booth students with resources across the University of Chicago, including incubators, accelerators, and venture capital firms.
Booth Alumni Network: The Booth alumni network is vast and active, offering mentorship opportunities,potential business partnerships, and valuable connections with investors.
Scholarship Opportunities: Booth offers scholarships and financial aid programs specifically targeted towards women in business, making an MBA education more accessible.

Culture of Collaboration and Inclusivity:

Diverse Cohort: Booth prides itself on its diverse student body, fostering a collaborative learning environment where women can learn from and be inspired by their peers.
Case Studies and Research: Booth integrates case studies and research that highlight the success stories and challenges of female founders. This exposure provides valuable insights and challenges the status quo.
Focus on Leadership Development: Booth's program focuses on developing strong leadership skills,empowering women to be confident and assertive leaders in the business world.

3. Northwestern University (Kellogg)

Evanston, IL

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University requires that applicants submit either a GMAT or GRE score during the admissions process to its full-time MBA program. Incoming students at Kellogg last year had a 727 GMAT score, on average, and a 3.7 undergraduate GPA. Last year, 26% of applicants to Kellogg’s full-time MBA program were admitted. Two letters of recommendation must be submitted with an application. Kellogg currently enrolls 1,061 full-time MBA students. TOEFL scores are required for international applicants. The median base salary for Kellogg graduates is $150,000.

Here is why Kellogg is great for female founders:

Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management stands out for its commitment to empowering female founders through a unique blend of academic excellence, dedicated resources, and a thriving alumni network. Here's how Kellogg fosters success for aspiring and existing women entrepreneurs:

Championing Women in Business:

The Sylvia Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation: This dedicated center provides workshops, speaker series, and mentorship programs specifically designed to support female founders. It fosters a collaborative environment where women can share experiences, learn from each other, and connect with industry experts.
Kellogg Women in Business (KWIB): This dynamic student organization offers networking opportunities,professional development events, and leadership training programs specifically tailored to the needs of female MBAs. It fosters a sense of community and empowers women to thrive in the business world.
Forte Foundation Fellows Program: Kellogg partners with the Forte Foundation to attract high-caliber women with entrepreneurial aspirations, providing them with scholarships, mentorship, and a supportive network.

Focus on Actionable Skills and Real-World Applications:

Action-Oriented Learning: Kellogg's curriculum emphasizes practical skills and experiential learning. Courses like "Launching New Ventures" and "Private Equity Finance" equip students with the tools and knowledge to launch and scale their businesses.
Kellogg Launch Network: This network connects students with alumni mentors, venture capitalists, and angel investors, providing crucial connections for securing funding and navigating the startup ecosystem.
Global Immersion Programs: Kellogg offers opportunities to gain international business experience, which can be invaluable for founders seeking to expand their reach beyond local markets.

Inclusive and Supportive Environment:

Women on the Faculty: Kellogg boasts a strong presence of female faculty members who are accomplished researchers and entrepreneurs. This diversity ensures a curriculum that reflects the experiences and challenges faced by women in business, offering valuable role models for aspiring founders.
Case Studies and Research: The Kellogg curriculum emphasizes case studies that highlight the successes and struggles of female founders. This exposure provides valuable insights and challenges the traditional narrative within the business world.
Culture of Collaboration: Kellogg fosters a collaborative learning environment where women can learn from and support each other. This network of peers becomes a valuable resource throughout their entrepreneurial journeys.

Strong Alumni Network for Women:

Kellogg Alumni Network: Kellogg boasts a vast and active alumni network, with a significant number of successful female entrepreneurs. This network provides access to mentors, potential investors, and collaborators,opening doors to new opportunities.
Kellogg Alumni Ventures: This program connects alumni entrepreneurs with funding opportunities and resources specifically designed to support Kellogg-founded ventures.

4. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

Philadelphia, PA

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) MBA applicants must submit either a GMAT or GRE score to be considered for admission. The program requires two letters of recommendation. Among students accepted last year, the average GMAT score was 733 and the average undergraduate GPA was 3.6. TOEFL scores are required for international applicants, unless they qualify for a waiver. The median base salary for Wharton MBA graduates is $155,000.

Here is why Wharton is great for female founders:

Wharton Gender Initiative & Diana Center: Wharton boasts a dedicated focus on empowering women in business.The Gender Initiative and Diana Center offer programs, research, and events specifically designed to address the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs. These resources provide access to mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities with successful women in various industries.
Venture Initiation Program (VIP) & Penn Venture Lab: Wharton provides exceptional resources for aspiring founders. The VIP program equips students with the tools and skills to launch new ventures, while the Penn Venture Lab offers dedicated co-working space, mentorship, and access to funding opportunities. These resources are crucial for female founders seeking to turn their ideas into reality.
Wharton Alumni Network & Lauder Institute: The Wharton alumni network is vast and active, with a strong contingent of successful female entrepreneurs. This network provides access to mentors, potential investors, and collaborators who can offer invaluable guidance and support. Additionally, the Lauder Institute fosters global leadership skills, preparing female founders to navigate an increasingly interconnected business landscape.
Wharton Entrepreneurship Curriculum: Wharton's curriculum goes beyond traditional business education. Courses like "Building High-Growth Companies" and "The Entrepreneurial Mindset" equip students with the specific skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the startup world. This targeted education is essential for female founders who may face unique challenges in accessing funding and navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Wharton's Culture of Innovation & Inclusion: Wharton fosters a dynamic and innovative environment that encourages creativity and risk-taking. This culture is particularly supportive of female founders who may be bringing fresh perspectives and disruptive ideas to the table. Additionally, Wharton's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that female founders feel empowered and valued throughout their academic and entrepreneurial journeys.

5. Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Stanford Graduate School of Business requires applicants to submit either a GMAT or GRE score. Incoming students to Stanford’s Graduate School of Business had an average GMAT score of 738 and a 3.78 undergraduate GPA. In 2021, Stanford GSB reported a 6.2% acceptance rate. Applications must include two recommendation letters. Stanford has three application rounds for its full-time MBA program, and currently enrolls 899 students. The median base salary for graduating MBA students is $158,400.

Here is why Stanford is great for female founders:

Powerful Network and Mentorship:

Stanford Angels & Entrepreneurs Network (STAN): This renowned network connects female founders with experienced investors and mentors specifically focused on supporting women-led ventures.
The Eileen & John Bechtel Center for Entrepreneurship: This center fosters a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem at Stanford. It offers workshops, mentorship programs, and speaker series specifically designed to empower female founders and connect them with seasoned professionals who can offer valuable guidance and open doors to potential investors.
Proximity to Silicon Valley: Stanford's location in the heart of Silicon Valley provides unparalleled access to venture capitalists, angel investors, and other key players in the startup world. This proximity fosters valuable connections and increases the likelihood of securing funding for female-founded companies.

Programs and Resources Tailored for Women:

Stanford Graduate School of Business Women in Management (WIM): This active student organization provides a strong support system for female MBAs, offering networking events, professional development workshops, and leadership training programs specifically addressing the needs and challenges faced by women in business.
Gender & Diversity in Organizations Courses: Stanford's curriculum includes courses that explore issues of gender bias and strategies for women to navigate the business world. This exposure empowers female founders to advocate for themselves and their ventures.
Access to Funding through Fellowships: Stanford offers fellowships specifically aimed at supporting women in business, making an MBA education more accessible and easing the financial burden of starting a business.

Culture of Innovation and Breaking Barriers:

Stanford's Entrepreneurial Spirit: Stanford has a long history of fostering innovation and nurturing successful startups. This culture of creativity and risk-taking is particularly encouraging for female founders who are often bringing fresh ideas and challenging the status quo.
Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: Stanford prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment. This fosters a sense of belonging for female founders and ensures their voices are heard and valued.
Role Models and Success Stories: Stanford boasts a growing number of successful female alumni entrepreneurs. These role models inspire aspiring founders and demonstrate the possibilities for breaking barriers in the business world.

6. Columbia University

New York, NY

Columbia Business School requires a GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment score for admission to its full-time MBA program, with incoming students reporting an average GMAT score of 729. Last year, incoming students had a 3.5 undergraduate GPA, on average, and the school’s acceptance rate was 19%. Columbia requires one letter of recommendation with an application, but doesn’t require a TOEFL score for international students. Applications are due April 5. There are currently 1,609 full-time MBA students enrolled at Columbia. Graduates earn a median base salary of $150,000.

Here is why Columbia is great for female founders:

Support for Women in Business Initiatives:

The Diana Center: This dedicated center champions women's leadership and entrepreneurship. It offers workshops, conferences, and research specifically focused on the challenges and opportunities faced by female founders. This provides access to valuable resources, mentorship, and a network of like-minded women.
The Annabelle & Jacob Bernstein Program for Women Leaders: This program equips women with the skills and confidence to excel in leadership roles. The program's focus on negotiation, communication, and strategic decision-making empowers female founders to be more effective leaders within their ventures.
Project Ten.Eight: This innovative program provides early-stage funding, mentorship, and workshops specifically designed to support female founders of high-potential businesses. It helps bridge the funding gap often faced by women entrepreneurs and provides crucial support during the critical early stages of growth.

Powerful Alumni Network for Women:

The Columbia Business School Women's Alumni Network: This extensive network connects female founders with successful alumni entrepreneurs and investors. This network provides access to mentorship, potential business partnerships, and valuable connections that can open doors to new opportunities and funding sources.

Curriculum Focused on Building Businesses:

Entrepreneurship Courses: Columbia Business School offers a robust entrepreneurship curriculum with courses like "Building Entrepreneurial Ventures" and "Venture Capital." These courses provide the practical skills and knowledge needed to launch and scale a business, equipping female founders with the tools to navigate the complexities of the startup world.
Access to Industry Experts: The faculty at Columbia Business School includes experienced entrepreneurs and investors who can offer valuable insights and guidance to aspiring founders. These connections can be instrumental in helping female founders gain a competitive edge.

Focus on Diversity and Inclusion:

Inclusive Learning Environment: Columbia Business School fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where women feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the learning experience. This supportive environment allows female founders to thrive and build confidence in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
Case Studies Highlighting Women's Success: The curriculum integrates case studies that showcase the achievements of successful female founders. This exposure provides valuable role models and challenges the traditional narratives within the business world, inspiring women to pursue their entrepreneurial goals.

7. New York University (Stern)

New York, NY

NYU Stern School of Business requires applicants to submit a GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment score, or a test waiver to be considered for admission to its full-time MBA program. Last year, incoming students had an average GMAT score of 729 and 3.59 undergraduate GPA. Stern admitted 19% of applicants last year, and currently enrolls 658 full-time MBA students. In order to be considered for admission, applicants must submit two letters of recommendation. The final application deadline is March 15. Stern MBA graduates earn a median base salary of $155,000.

Here is why Stern is great for female founders:

NYU (New York University) isn't exactly a single business school, but it houses a renowned entrepreneurship program that's particularly well-suited for female founders. Here's why NYU can be perfect for them:

The NYU Entrepreneurial Institute (NYU EI):

This institute is the heart of NYU's entrepreneurial offerings and provides a strong support system for aspiring and existing female founders:

The Female Founders Fellowship: This award-winning program is a game-changer. It offers a comprehensive package of resources specifically designed for female founders, including:
- Community and Network: Connection to a network of successful female entrepreneurs, fostering a strong sense of belonging and support.
- Mentorship: Access to experienced mentors who can provide guidance and advice tailored to the challenges faced by women in business.
- Training and Workshops: Educational programs focused on building essential business skills like fundraising, marketing, and leadership.
- Funding: The chance to apply for student loan alleviation grants, a major hurdle for many aspiring founders.
Focus on Gender Equity: NYU EI emphasizes closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship. Their programs actively address the unique challenges faced by female founders, such as access to capital and unconscious bias.
Events and Speakers: NYU EI regularly hosts events featuring successful female founders, providing valuable insights and inspiration.

Additional Resources at NYU:

NYU Stern School of Business: While not solely focused on entrepreneurship, Stern offers courses relevant to business creation and management.
NYU Alumni Network: The vast NYU alumni network includes successful female entrepreneurs who can serve as mentors and potential investors.
Proximity to NYC Startup Ecosystem: NYU's location in New York City provides access to venture capitalists,angel investors, and other key players in the startup world.

While NYU might not be a traditional business school, its Entrepreneurial Institute offers a unique set of resources and a supportive environment specifically designed to empower female founders. The combination of the Female Founders Fellowship, focus on gender equity, and access to the NYC startup scene makes NYU a compelling option for women seeking to launch and grow successful businesses.

8. Duke University (Fuqua)

Durham, NC

Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business requires applicants to submit a standardized test score to apply to its full-time MBA program, but will accept either the GMAT, the GRE, or the Executive Assessment. Applicants are allowed to submit multiple test scores. Incoming students to Fuqua in 2021 had a 713 GMAT score, on average, and a 3.48 undergraduate GPA. The acceptance rate to Duke’s full-time MBA program was 19% last year. There are four application rounds each year, including an early action option. Fuqua graduates earn a median $140,000 base salary.

Here is why Fuqua is great for female founders:

Duke University's Fuqua School of Business offers a compelling package of resources and a supportive environment that can be perfect for aspiring and existing female founders. Here's why:

Strong Focus on Women in Leadership:

The Center for Gender, Leadership & Inclusion (CGGLI): This dedicated center champions the advancement of women in business leadership. It provides workshops, mentorship programs, and research specifically focused on the challenges and opportunities faced by female entrepreneurs. This translates into valuable resources,guidance, and a network of like-minded women.
Fuqua Women's Business Association (FWBA): This dynamic student organization fosters a supportive community for female MBAs. It offers networking events, professional development workshops, and leadership training programs designed to empower women to excel in the business world, particularly within the startup ecosystem.
Fuqua Forte Fellows Program: Fuqua partners with the Forte Foundation to attract high-caliber women with entrepreneurial aspirations. This program offers scholarships, mentorship, and a supportive network, making an MBA education more accessible and fostering a sense of belonging.

Entrepreneurial Programs and Resources:

The LaunchLab: This on-campus incubator provides female founders with co-working space, mentorship,workshops, and access to funding opportunities. This dedicated space fosters collaboration, innovation, and offers crucial support during the critical early stages of launching a business.
Entrepreneurship Courses: Fuqua offers a robust entrepreneurship curriculum with courses like "New Venture Creation" and "Venture Capital Finance." These courses equip female founders with the practical skills and knowledge needed to turn their ideas into reality, from ideation to securing funding.
Angel Investor Network: Fuqua boasts a strong network of angel investors, many of whom are alumni who understand the challenges faced by early-stage ventures. This network increases the likelihood of securing funding for female-led startups.

Collaborative and Inclusive Environment:

Mentorship Opportunities: Fuqua places a strong emphasis on mentorship. Female founders have access to experienced faculty, alumni entrepreneurs, and industry professionals who can provide valuable guidance and support throughout their entrepreneurial journeys.
Case Studies Highlighting Women's Success: The curriculum integrates case studies showcasing the achievements of successful female founders. This exposure provides valuable role models and dismantles stereotypes within the business world, inspiring women to pursue their ventures with confidence.
Diverse Cohort and Faculty: Fuqua fosters a diverse and inclusive environment where women feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. This collaborative learning environment allows female founders to learn from and support each other, building a strong network that extends beyond graduation.

Top 8 Business Schools in the United States & The Benefits Of Going To Business School