These 21 Universities Have the Most Billionaire Alumni

Harvard University boasts an impressive list of alumni who have gone on to become billionaires. From Michael Bloomberg to the Winklevoss twins, the institution has produced over 100 individuals who have achieved billionaire status. The school’s alumni include former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, former U.S. commerce secretary Penny Pritzker, Patriots owner Robert Kraft, and ex-Chilean President Sebastián Piñera.

A recent study conducted by economics professor Kevin Young from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and lecturer Ricardo Salas Díaz from Dartmouth College sheds light on the educational backgrounds of the global elite. Published in the journal Global Networks, the research focuses on billionaires and other influential figures such as corporate board members, government officials, and leaders of international organizations.

The study reveals a clear hierarchy in the distribution of educational credentials, with Harvard University leading the pack by a significant margin. Harvard has granted a total of 662 degrees to global elites, accounting for 9% of the sample. This far surpasses other top universities like Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Oxford, Columbia University, and Yale University.

Stanford University comes in second with over 300 elite graduates and 69 billionaire alumni. The tech industry has played a significant role in Stanford’s success, with alumni including founders or co-founders of companies like Palantir, DoorDash, and Google. University of Pennsylvania ranks third in billionaire alumni, with notable figures like Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump among its graduates.

The research also highlights the top 21 universities with the most billionaire alumni, showcasing the global reach of elite educational institutions. The list includes universities from the United States, India, China, Russia, and South Korea, with Harvard University firmly holding the top spot.

While prestigious universities undoubtedly provide valuable educational experiences, the study emphasizes the importance of networking and social capital in the success of the global elite. A degree from a top university serves as a “loud signal” in professional settings, opening doors to key connections and opportunities for wealth accumulation.

Ultimately, the research underscores the influential role that elite universities play in shaping the global elite and emphasizes the lasting impact of prestigious educational credentials. As the world continues to evolve, the connections forged at institutions like Harvard and Stanford will continue to shape the future of the global elite.