French business schools lead FT Masters in Finance 2026 ranking

June 15, 2026 - 07:19

ESCP Business School has claimed the top spot in the Financial Times Masters in Finance ranking for 2026, leading a strong showing from French institutions. The Paris-based school pushed last year's winner, HEC Paris, into second place, while other French programs also secured high positions in the annual list. The ranking reflects a broader trend of European schools outperforming their global rivals, with 13 of the top 15 spots held by European institutions.

The strong performance comes as demand for finance master's degrees continues to rise. According to the FT data, applications to the top 55 programs increased by an average of 12% compared to the previous year. School administrators point to a tough job market as a key driver. Graduates from bachelor's programs are struggling to find immediate employment, leading many to seek additional credentials as a form of sanctuary from economic uncertainty.

ESCP's victory was driven by strong alumni salaries and career progression. Graduates from the program reported an average salary of $156,000 three years after completing their degree, one of the highest in the ranking. The school also scored well on international mobility, with alumni working across multiple continents.

Other French schools in the top ten include SKEMA Business School in fourth place and EDHEC Business School in sixth. The only non-European school in the top ten was China's Tsinghua University, which ranked eighth. The ranking surveyed 55 programs globally, using data on salary increases, career services, and student diversity.