I am getting a little confused about all these different rankings. Some schools are high up in some lists but do not even appear in the top 10 in others. Is there a ranking of the rankings? I mean which rankings are the most reliable...?

My ranking of MBA rankings in terms of reliabilty would be:

1) FT + Business Week
2) Economist + US News

All of the four rankings are based on profound research and thus "reliable", as far as rankings can be reliable at all. At the end of the day it's all about weighing the factors that may indicate the quality of the business schools. The importance of these factors may be different for you than for the people who make the rankings.

If you know what you want to specialize in, you should look into the subject-based rankings (e.g. U.S. news). I bought the U.S. News booklet, which has this info (about 10 USD). Secondly I would go for general reputation. Location is the third important aspect, not only for your personal interest, but also for making contacts.

Hope this helps!

I would say that's right on, Barto. There are many factors to consider. Inclusion near the top of these ratings is a very good sign but it also should be weighed in with other -- maybe personal -- considerations, as you say.

Are there any other good international-focused, subject-based ratings/directories you know of (aside from US News)?

I say FT and Economist as numbers 1 and 2. Then Business Week, since BW is very fundamentaly US-centred. thats my ranking of rankings.