While several models of college choice currently exist, many are decades old and very few examine the process of choosing an MBA program. At the same time, the popularity MBA program rankings continue to grow, however, it is not well understood how influential MBA program rankings are in the business school choice process. Given the lack of research in the area of graduate college choice in general, and specifically the lack of qualitative research in the area of MBA college choice, this study examined in depth why 16 MBA program alumni from a top-ranked business school chose that particular school's offer of admission. Using grounded theory methodology, the decision-making processes of 16 male and female alumni from a top ranked American business school were studies. Data was collected primarily through interviews. Ten major findings were uncovered. These findings were: 1) Participants wanted to create a "hard stop" in their current careers; 2) Program alumni were the most important source of MBA program data; 3) Rankings were used to confirm a pre-existing list of top tier schools; 4) An admissions office that provided "high touch" moments stood out; 5) Technology mattered; 6) Attending a school that has a highly recognizable brand, strong alumni network, and prestigious reputation was incredibly important; 7) Attending a top tier business school would send a signal of quality to prospective employers; 8) The subjects did not want to be the "smartest person in the room"; 9) Several subjects had a "defining moment" that aided them in the choice process; 10) "Top MBA or Bust" was the overarching theme throughout this study. Future research could interview alumni from a broader range of ranked and unranked MBA programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]