HEC Paris’ Historic Leap to Sixth Worldwide in FT Global MBA Ranking 2026
The Financial Times’ Global MBA Ranking 2026 showed ranked HEC Paris up three places consolidating its place among the FT’s Top 10 global MBA programs.
Key takeaways
· HEC’s internationalization remains a defining strength, with 95% international students and 71% international faculty.
· HEC Paris ranks in the global top 10 for international mobility and for sector diversity.
· Faculty strength is underscored by 100% of faculty holding doctorates.
· HEC Paris places ninth for ESG and net zero teaching and ninth for carbon footprint in the FT’s 2026 ranking indicators.
A Top-10 global result, powered by international reach
HEC Paris’ rise follows a trajectory of steady progress in recent years - a dynamic that mirrors last year’s message that the School had “secured a coveted spot” in the Financial Times’ Top 10 worldwide. This time, the 2026 ranking places HEC Paris sixth globally, immediately strengthening its position among the leading MBA programs. For the Associate Dean of MBA Programs, Brad Harris, the historic rise aligns with the school’s long-term mission “to build the relationships and connections that impactful and complete leaders need to drive positive change.” He noted: “I’m happy for our outstanding alumni, world-leading faculty, remarkable staff, and talented students to enjoy a moment of well-deserved validation in this year’s results.”
Internationalization is one of the clearest drivers of the result. In the FT’s data, 95% of HEC Paris MBA students are international, alongside 71% international faculty and 85% international board representation. The program also ranks 10th worldwide for international mobility - reflecting the global pathways pursued by graduates.
Faculty excellence and responsible leadership
The ranking also reflects faculty depth, with 100% of faculty holding doctorates. HEC Paris is further recognized in indicators linked to sustainability and the transition, ranking ninth worldwide both for ESG and net zero teaching, and for carbon footprint. The FT’s 2026 data also places HEC Paris ninth worldwide for sector diversity, contributing to a richly varied classroom experience. This is an objective Harris believes HEC can reach thanks to the collective intelligence of its students, faculty, alumni and partners: “I
believe we’ve got a program that belongs in the same conversation as the very best schools in the world, and we’re going to keep pushing to be even better. Our job is never done.” Beyond the FT ranking, HEC Paris’ full-time MBA is also recognized in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2026, where it is ranked fifth worldwide - and first in Europe.