How the 2026 FT Executive Education Rankings Were Built

May 18, 2026 - 09:44

The Financial Times has released its 2026 Executive Education rankings, covering both custom and open-enrolment programmes. The methodology behind these twin rankings relies on a combination of survey data and institutional metrics, designed to capture the real-world impact of executive education offerings.

For the custom programmes ranking, which evaluates courses tailored to specific companies, the FT collected data from two main sources. Business schools provided information on programme design, faculty, and client diversity. Meanwhile, corporate clients who commissioned these programmes were surveyed on their satisfaction. Key criteria include the quality of faculty, the relevance of course content, and the tangible benefits to the organisation, such as improved performance or strategic alignment. The number of participants and the breadth of industries served also factor into the final score.

The open-enrolment ranking, which covers programmes available to individual executives from different companies, uses a similar dual-source approach. Schools report on course structure and participant demographics, while past attendees rate their experience. Criteria here emphasise the development of new skills, the applicability of learning to the workplace, and the overall value for money. The diversity of the participant group, both in terms of nationality and industry, is also weighted.

To be included in either ranking, schools must meet specific entry criteria. They need to generate a minimum revenue from executive education, deliver a certain number of programme days annually, and demonstrate a track record of at least several years in the field. The FT also requires that schools provide a minimum number of completed surveys from both clients and participants to ensure statistical reliability.

The 2026 edition reflects ongoing trends, including a growing demand for digital and leadership-focused content, as well as programmes addressing sustainability and AI. The rankings aim to help corporate buyers and individual learners navigate a crowded market by highlighting schools that deliver measurable results.