Not sure I see the connection between consulting and Private Equity, but as for whether or not a top MBA is "worth it" or not is a tough question to answer since much of it depends on how well you leverage the degree in your post MBA career. What a top MBA will give you is access to the top recruiters and top jobs. Keep in mind only about 30% of MBAs do consulting after school and the average salaries at the top schools is over $100,000 per year. You would need to check the average starting salaries of the lower ranked schools to see if they compare. But it's not all about salary. While a good salarly can help the investment pay off more quickly, you should also look at the reach and size and placement of the alumni base. A top degree could certainly "pay off" during a recession in the future if you can tap a strong network to get yourself a job if you ever lose yours, for example. THe value of a "name brand" school could pay off down the road when it comes time to jump ship, move up or move on. I always recommend going to the best school you can get into if it's a good fit academically and culturally. The payoff should be worth it.