Corporate recruiters surveyed by the Graduate Management Admission Council say the median starting salary for 2024 MBA graduates will drop to $120,000, down from $125,000 projected for 2025. The decline follows a broader squeeze on entry‑level finance and consulting roles as firms trim hiring budgets amid AI‑driven workflow changes and heightened competition from candidates with technical credentials in the market across major financial hubs today.

Recruiters cite the rapid adoption of generative AI tools that automate data analysis and modeling, reducing demand for traditional MBA skill sets. Companies such as consulting giants and investment banks are reallocating resources toward AI‑savvy hires, leaving fewer slots for graduates whose expertise centers on strategy and leadership. This shift pressures tuition‑heavy programs to justify ROI and prompting firms to renegotiate compensation structures.

With fewer openings and lower pay, prospective students are re‑evaluating the value proposition of a two‑year MBA. Admissions offices report a modest dip in applications, particularly among candidates with strong quantitative backgrounds. The data suggest the credential is losing its status as a guaranteed fast‑track to high‑earning entry positions for future hires.