Poets & Quants’ 2026 ranking shows a widening price range in online MBA programs, with top institutions charging six‑figure tuition that rivals residential degrees. Carnegie Mellon (Tepper), USC Marshall and UNC Kenan‑Flagler appear among programs charging over $120,000, reflecting investment in premium online experiences and brand value. Schools argue online MBAs mirror on‑campus curricula, faculty and residencies; students can continue working while studying, which changes the cost‑benefit calculus. But the premium pricing raises questions about access, ROI and whether online education is fulfilling its original promise to expand affordability. Admissions officers and finance teams must balance market demand for brand and experience with pressure to preserve access for working professionals; institutions face reputational risk if price increases are not matched by measurable student outcomes.