Simon Business School’s Full-TimeMBA
- MBA admission Experts
- May 18
- 16 min read
Choosing the right MBA program is a pivotal decision for professionals aiming to accelerate their careers, expand their global networks, and develop specialized expertise in a fast-evolving business landscape. Among the top options for analytically driven, career-focused candidates is the Full-Time MBA at Simon Business School, University of Rochester. This program distinguishes itself through its rigorous curriculum, STEM-designated flexibility, and a highly supportive, tight-knit community.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Simon Business School’s Full-Time MBA
Simon Business School’s Full-Time MBA program isn’t just about acquiring a prestigious degree—it’s about cultivating a new level of clarity in business decision-making. Rooted in data-driven leadership and hands-on learning, Simon’s MBA is tailored for those who want to navigate complex business problems with confidence. The program emphasizes a bold, analytical approach, preparing graduates for leadership roles across industries ranging from finance and consulting to brand management and technology.
What truly sets Simon apart is its commitment to inclusivity and innovation. The school is renowned for being the first U.S. MBA program to offer a STEM designation to students in any specialization, giving graduates an edge in today’s highly quantitative and technology-focused business world. This designation also benefits international students by extending Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities for up to 36 months without requiring immediate H1B sponsorship.
Located in Rochester, New York, Simon Business School boasts an intentionally small class size that fosters deeper connections between students, faculty, and alumni. Through personalized academic and career support, students receive tailored guidance that aligns with their unique professional ambitions.
Moreover, Simon’s Jay S. and Jeanne Benet Career Management Center plays an instrumental role in ensuring students’ post-MBA success. From individualized coaching and mock interviews to résumé workshops and access to a powerful alumni network, Simon provides comprehensive resources designed to maximize career outcomes.
Whether you're aiming to pivot industries, move up the corporate ladder, or launch your own venture, Simon’s MBA equips you with the analytical, strategic, and leadership skills needed to thrive in a competitive, data-driven business environment.
Program Highlights and STEM-Designated Advantage
The Simon Business School Full-Time MBA offers a distinctive blend of analytical rigor, career-focused curriculum, and global business insight. Designed for ambitious professionals who thrive in data-driven environments, Simon’s program strategically aligns its offerings with the demands of today’s business world.
Analytical and Quantitative Focus
At the heart of Simon’s MBA program is an unapologetically analytical approach to business education. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based decision-making and quantitative analysis, equipping students to tackle complex business challenges using data-driven strategies. Whether it’s finance, marketing, or consulting, students develop skills to derive actionable insights from data—an increasingly sought-after competency in today’s corporate landscape.
STEM-Designated MBA Flexibility
One of Simon’s standout advantages is its STEM-designated MBA option, a credential that signals quantitative depth and technical expertise to potential employers. Unlike many programs that limit STEM eligibility to certain tracks, Simon makes this designation available across all MBA specializations. This inclusivity benefits both domestic and international students, offering enhanced career opportunities in industries where data, analytics, and technology are integral.
For international candidates in particular, the STEM designation provides significant practical advantages:
Extended Optional Practical Training (OPT): Eligible students can extend their OPT period by 24 months, allowing up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. without immediate H1B sponsorship.
Increased employability in STEM-related roles: Graduates are highly competitive in data-heavy functions across financial services, technology, consulting, healthcare, and more.
Specialization and Track-Based Learning
Simon’s MBA is built around three primary career tracks—Finance, Consulting, and Marketing—with multiple specializations and ten minors designed to sharpen students’ expertise in in-demand areas like Pricing, Brand Management, Venture Capital, and Healthcare Analytics. This structured flexibility ensures students can customize their MBA experience while retaining a clear career focus.
Available MBA Tracks:
Finance Track
Consulting Track
Marketing Track
Example Minors:
Business Analytics
Pricing
Global Business
Technology Management
Intentionally Small and Diverse Community
Another hallmark of Simon’s MBA is its small, tight-knit cohort. This deliberately intimate class size fosters meaningful interactions, peer learning, and lifelong professional relationships. The diversity of perspectives — in terms of nationality, industry background, and career ambitions — enriches classroom discussions and collaborative projects.
Immersive Career Development Resources
Simon’s Benet Career Management Center (CMC) is a fully endowed resource that partners with students from day one. It provides tailored services including:
Personalized career coaching
Résumé and cover letter optimization
Mock interviews and networking events
Direct connections with top recruiters and alumni
This strong career infrastructure translates into tangible results for students, consistently securing high placement rates and competitive salary packages.
Curriculum Structure, Specializations, and Minors
The Simon Business School Full-Time MBA is crafted for professionals who seek a rigorous, career-oriented academic experience with the flexibility to tailor their studies to individual goals. The curriculum is meticulously structured to build foundational business acumen while offering pathways for specialization in high-demand fields. Let’s explore how this is achieved.
Overview of the MBA Curriculum
Simon’s MBA curriculum is divided into core courses, specializations through career tracks, and elective minors. This structure ensures that students develop broad-based management expertise while gaining deep knowledge in areas directly aligned with their career interests.
Key curriculum characteristics include:
A strong foundation in analytical and quantitative methods
STEM designation eligibility across all specializations
Integrated professional development programs
Flexibility to pursue dual specializations or minors
Core Curriculum
The program begins with an immersive core curriculum that establishes expertise in essential business disciplines, including:
Financial Accounting
Managerial Economics
Operations Management
Marketing Strategy
Data Analytics for Managers
Corporate Finance
Organizational Behavior and Leadership
This foundation ensures every student, regardless of prior background, is equipped with the critical business knowledge required for leadership roles.
Career Tracks and Specializations
Simon’s MBA offers three primary career tracks, each designed to develop advanced skills tailored to industry expectations:
Finance Track: Focused on corporate finance, investment banking, asset management, and financial analytics.
Consulting Track: Emphasizes strategy, operations, and business analytics consulting, preparing students for client-facing advisory roles.
Marketing Track: Covers brand management, digital marketing, pricing strategy, and market analytics.
Within these tracks, students can choose from a range of specializations that align with their specific career objectives.
Elective Minors
In addition to specializations, Simon allows students to select from ten minors, enhancing their degree with niche expertise and cross-functional skills. Popular options include:
Business Analytics
Pricing
Global Business
Technology Management
Venture Capital & Private Equity
Healthcare Analytics
This minor system empowers students to personalize their MBA experience without compromising the analytical rigor that Simon is known for.
STEM Designation Across the Board
A distinctive advantage of Simon’s MBA is that all specializations and minors are STEM-designated, allowing students to build technical and quantitative capabilities that are highly valued in today’s job market. This also offers significant visa-related benefits for international students, extending post-graduation work authorization in the U.S.
Academic Support and Flexibility
Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and career ambitions of its students, Simon’s program includes academic coaching, peer-led study groups, and flexible elective scheduling. Students can also participate in international business courses, consulting projects, and industry treks to deepen their applied learning experiences.
Admissions Process, Eligibility, and Test Waiver Policy
The admissions process at Simon Business School’s Full-Time MBA is designed to be comprehensive, transparent, and supportive. The school’s admissions philosophy reflects its commitment to building a diverse, driven, and analytically inclined cohort of future business leaders. Here’s a closer look at how the process works, who is eligible to apply, and what makes Simon’s policies uniquely accessible.
Who Can Apply?
Simon Business School welcomes applications from professionals with varied academic and professional backgrounds. While prior business experience is valuable, it’s not a strict requirement. The ideal candidate demonstrates:
Strong academic performance in undergraduate studies
Relevant work experience (2–5 years preferred, but not mandatory)
Leadership potential and a passion for analytics-driven decision-making
Clear career goals aligned with the program’s strengths
International candidates are highly encouraged to apply, with Simon offering extensive visa support and a globally minded curriculum.
Admissions Process Overview
Simon uses a rolling admissions process within clearly defined rounds, meaning applications are reviewed as soon as they’re submitted. This offers applicants the advantage of potentially receiving decisions earlier within each round.
Steps in the Application Process:
Online Application Submission: Includes personal information, academic records, résumé, essays, and optional test scores.
Interview Invitation: Selected candidates are invited for a virtual or in-person interview.
Admission Decision: Applicants receive decisions on a rolling basis but no later than the stated notification dates for each round.
Test-Optional Policy
A standout feature of Simon’s MBA admissions is its test-optional policy. While GMAT or GRE scores are accepted, candidates are not required to submit them. This policy allows applicants to showcase their strengths through other parts of their application, such as:
Professional accomplishments
Academic performance
Essays and personal statements
Letters of recommendation
For applicants opting to forgo standardized tests, Simon encourages them to carefully review the program’s test waiver guidelines and ensure the rest of their application presents a compelling case for admission.
Fall 2025 Application Rounds and Deadlines
Simon offers five application rounds for Fall 2025 entry. Here’s a breakdown of the application windows and deadlines:
Round | Application Window | Deadline | Decision By |
Round 1 | September 1 – October 15 | October 15 | December 15 |
Round 2 | October 16 – January 5 | January 5 | March 31 |
Round 3 | January 6 – February 15 | February 15 | April 20 |
Round 4 | February 16 – March 31 | March 31 | May 15 |
Round 5 | April 1 – May 1 | May 1 | June 15 |
Tip for Applicants: Applying early in a round may increase your chances of receiving a decision sooner, offering a strategic advantage in your business school planning.
Application Fee and Scholarships
Simon provides a merit-based scholarship program, and all applicants are automatically considered upon submission. No separate application is required for scholarship consideration. Additionally, the admissions team offers personalized advice to help applicants strengthen their applications and optimize their eligibility for financial awards.
Scholarships, Financial Aid, and Loan Information
Pursuing an MBA represents a significant investment, and Simon Business School is committed to making its Full-Time MBA program financially accessible to talented candidates from around the world. With a comprehensive range of merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and student loan options, Simon ensures that finances never become a barrier for deserving students.
Merit-Based Scholarships
A key advantage of applying to Simon is the automatic consideration for merit-based scholarships. Every applicant is evaluated for these awards during the admissions process—no separate application is necessary. Scholarship decisions are based on a holistic review of:
Academic performance
Professional achievements
Leadership experience
Personal essays and career goals
Interview performance (if applicable)
Scholarship awards range from partial to full tuition coverage, making it possible for high-potential candidates to significantly offset the cost of their MBA.
Financial Aid and Fellowships
In addition to merit-based awards, Simon offers competitive fellowship opportunities for select students. These fellowships recognize exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, and commitment to community impact. Recipients may also gain access to exclusive leadership programming, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
For U.S. citizens and permanent residents, federal financial aid options are available, including:
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Federal Graduate PLUS Loans
Students are encouraged to file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine their eligibility for these programs.
Student Loans for International Students
Recognizing the challenges international students often face in securing education financing, Simon has established partnerships with private loan providers who offer loan options without requiring a U.S. co-signer for qualified international applicants. This ensures that talented global students can pursue their MBA without restrictive financial constraints.
Key benefits for international students include:
STEM-designated program status (OPT extension up to 36 months)
Access to private loan programs tailored for international candidates
Dedicated support from Simon’s financial aid office to navigate loan application processes
Tuition Fee Overview
While the brochures provided did not include a line-item tuition breakdown, applicants can find the latest tuition and fee details on Simon’s official Tuition & Financial Aid page.
For context, Simon’s MBA is known for offering one of the most competitively priced MBA programs among top U.S. business schools, especially considering the scholarship opportunities and STEM designation benefits it provides.
Payment Plans and Additional Support
Simon also offers tuition payment plans for students who prefer to spread their tuition payments over the academic year, reducing the financial burden of lump-sum payments. The financial aid office provides personalized counseling to help students explore payment options, budgeting, and external scholarship opportunities.
Global Exposure, Networking, and Signature Events
In today’s interconnected business world, exposure to international markets, diverse business cultures, and global networks is essential for MBA students aiming to lead in multinational environments. The Simon Business School Full-Time MBA program integrates global perspectives into its core through a combination of immersive experiences, networking opportunities, and career-enhancing events.
International Business Experiences
While the brochures didn’t list specific global modules, Simon’s MBA curriculum is known for offering international business electives, global consulting projects, and cross-border study opportunities. These options allow students to:
Engage directly with international companies and executives
Address real-world business challenges in global contexts
Explore emerging market dynamics and competitive strategies abroad
Students pursuing global business minors or interested in industries with strong international linkages often leverage these programs to gain a strategic edge.
Networking Events and Alumni Engagement
One of Simon’s strongest assets is its intentionally small, diverse, and collaborative community. This environment fosters high-quality connections between students, alumni, faculty, and business leaders. The school regularly organizes networking events, including:
Industry-specific mixers in finance, consulting, marketing, and technology
Alumni speaker panels featuring accomplished Simon graduates
Recruiter networking sessions with top employers from the U.S. and abroad
This access to alumni and recruiters creates valuable opportunities for mentorship, job referrals, and business partnerships that extend far beyond graduation.
Signature Campus Events
Simon MBA students benefit from a lineup of signature events designed to deepen their professional knowledge, build leadership skills, and forge lasting connections. Popular events include:
Admissions-hosted networking days featuring alumni panels, campus tours, and sample classes
Annual career fairs tailored to high-demand industries like financial services, healthcare, and consulting
Women’s Leadership Conferences, Diversity Symposiums, and Professional Development Days
These events serve as a platform for students to expand their influence, learn from thought leaders, and enhance their visibility within key business circles.
Student Clubs and Peer Networking
Beyond formal networking opportunities, Simon encourages students to join professional and social student organizations. These clubs foster community engagement, career preparation, and leadership development in areas such as:
Finance and Investment Club
Marketing Association
Simon Consulting Club
Women in Business
Simon Analytics & Technology Association
Participation in these clubs often involves case competitions, industry treks, and community service initiatives, enriching both the personal and professional MBA experience.
Travel Stipends for Signature Events
To ensure broad participation, Simon offers travel stipends for key on-campus events, making it easier for prospective and admitted students to visit, network, and experience campus life before enrolling.
Career Support and Employment Outcomes
A defining strength of the Simon Business School Full-Time MBA program is its unwavering focus on career outcomes. From the moment students accept their offer of admission, Simon’s career support ecosystem is activated, ensuring that graduates are not only employable but highly competitive in the global job market.
The Benet Career Management Center (CMC)
At the heart of Simon’s career services is the Jay S. and Jeanne Benet Career Management Center (CMC) — a fully endowed, dynamic resource dedicated to MBA career success. The CMC offers a personalized, proactive career education model that evolves alongside market demands, preparing students for roles in traditional MBA sectors as well as emerging industries.
Key services include:
Individualized career coaching tailored to each student’s background, goals, and skillset
Résumé reviews and cover letter workshops to optimize applicant profiles for top employers
Mock interviews and case interview preparation facilitated by experienced career advisors
Job search strategy sessions and employer networking support
Career Action Teams (CATs)
A unique feature of Simon’s career development framework is the Career Action Team (CAT) program. Upon arrival on campus, students are grouped into small teams based on their target industries and job functions. Each CAT is led by CMC professionals and includes alumni mentors and peer advisors.
Benefits of CAT participation:
Regular career strategy meetings
Peer networking within desired fields
Alumni-led workshops and insider industry insights
Collaboration on internship and job search tactics
This model fosters accountability, sharpens career readiness, and ensures students have a supportive community navigating similar career paths.
Industry-Focused Career Coaching
Simon maintains dedicated career directors who specialize in high-demand MBA industries, including:
Financial Services
Consulting
Technology
Brand Management
Energy
Healthcare
These career directors cultivate strong relationships with leading employers and help students align their technical skills, leadership qualities, and industry knowledge for optimal placement outcomes.
Career Outcomes and Placement Data
According to the latest data (as of September 30, 2024):
Simon consistently achieves high placement rates for its Full-Time MBA graduates
Employment opportunities span industries like consulting, financial services, technology, and healthcare
Top hiring companies include both multinational firms and innovative startups seeking analytically savvy business leaders
Students can also download the comprehensive MBA Class of 2024 Career Highlights report, which includes Class of 2025 internship outcomes, via Simon’s official website.
Career Management Programming
Simon’s career development programming is continuous and comprehensive. Many graduates credit the Benet CMC with helping them successfully navigate job searches, refine interview techniques, and negotiate competitive employment offers.
Workshops, alumni networking sessions, and recruiter events are seamlessly integrated into the MBA experience, ensuring students gain early and ongoing exposure to decision-makers in their target fields.
Top Hiring Industries and Career Destinations
One of the standout features of the Simon Business School Full-Time MBA program is its strong employment outcomes across a wide spectrum of industries and functions. Thanks to its data-driven, STEM-designated curriculum and personalized career coaching model, Simon consistently places graduates in high-demand sectors where analytical decision-making and quantitative skills are at a premium.
Leading Industries for Simon MBA Graduates
Based on recent employment outcomes and career highlights, Simon MBAs are highly sought after in the following industries:
Financial Services: Simon’s reputation in finance remains strong, with graduates moving into roles in corporate finance, investment banking, asset management, private equity, and fintech.
Consulting: With its emphasis on analytics, pricing strategy, and decision modeling, Simon is a favored choice for consulting firms seeking candidates who can deliver data-backed recommendations. Graduates enter strategy, management, and business analytics consulting positions.
Technology: Increasing numbers of Simon MBAs are being hired into tech companies and startups, with roles spanning product management, operations, business analytics, and corporate strategy.
Brand Management and Marketing Analytics: Simon’s Marketing track, enhanced by minors in Pricing and Business Analytics, prepares graduates for careers in brand management, digital marketing, and customer insights.
Healthcare and Energy: Leveraging their STEM skills, Simon alumni are breaking into healthcare management, pharma consulting, and energy sector strategy roles, industries that increasingly rely on analytics and operational efficiency.
Career Destinations: Where Simon MBAs Get Hired
Simon’s small, tightly connected alumni network and active recruiter relationships ensure placement in both major corporations and dynamic startups. While the brochures did not list specific companies, the following types of firms regularly recruit Simon MBAs:
Global consulting firms (strategy, operations, and analytics practices)
Tier-1 investment banks and boutique financial advisory firms
Fortune 500 consumer goods and technology companies
Healthcare and pharmaceutical organizations
Energy sector companies and utilities
High-growth startups in fintech, SaaS, and data analytics
The program’s STEM designation enhances employability in these fields, particularly for roles requiring technical business acumen and quantitative problem-solving.
International Student Career Advantage
The STEM-designated status of the Simon MBA program is a significant advantage for international students. Graduates in eligible roles can extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period by 24 months, offering a total of 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. This makes Simon an attractive option for international candidates seeking career opportunities in the American job market without immediate H1B sponsorship requirements.
Alumni Support and Employer Connections
Simon’s Career Management Center (CMC) fosters robust relationships with employers and maintains an active alumni network. Graduates benefit from:
Exclusive job postings
Alumni mentorship and networking events
Employer information sessions and recruiting days
Career treks to industry hubs like New York City, Boston, and Chicago
This infrastructure consistently supports high placement rates and strong post-MBA salary outcomes.
Why Choose Simon MBA: Unique Value Proposition
When evaluating top MBA programs, discerning candidates seek a balance between academic rigor, career outcomes, global exposure, and long-term return on investment. The Simon Business School Full-Time MBA program offers a compelling proposition on all fronts, standing out for its analytically driven approach, STEM flexibility, and a highly personalized student experience.
Unapologetically Analytical and STEM-Focused
Simon has carved a distinct identity as one of the most analytically rigorous MBA programs in the United States. Its STEM-designated curriculum isn’t limited to select tracks—it’s available across all specializations and minors, positioning graduates as quantitatively skilled, data-driven business leaders in a global job market increasingly reliant on analytics.
This analytical focus resonates especially well with employers in finance, consulting, tech, and healthcare, where evidence-based decision-making is vital. For international students, the extended OPT period of up to 36 months further enhances career prospects in the U.S.
Personalized Career Support and Strong Employment Outcomes
Few business schools offer career services as customized and integrated as Simon’s. The Jay S. and Jeanne Benet Career Management Center (CMC) ensures that each student receives:
Individualized career coaching from industry specialists
Access to a Career Action Team (CAT) focused on target job functions and sectors
Mock interviews, résumé optimization, and job search strategy workshops
Alumni networking opportunities and corporate recruiting events
This personalized career ecosystem consistently yields strong placement rates across industries and a reputation for graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared to tackle modern business challenges.
Intimate, Diverse Community and Global Reach
Simon’s intentionally small cohort size fosters a collaborative, high-engagement learning environment where students build lifelong professional connections. The community is notably diverse, welcoming professionals from around the world and across industries, creating an inclusive atmosphere where multiple perspectives inform every classroom discussion and project.
Coupled with international business electives, global consulting projects, and alumni networks across major global cities, Simon’s MBA ensures students develop both the local insights and international awareness essential for modern business leadership.
Flexible Curriculum with Career-Aligned Tracks
The program’s structure offers a strategic blend of core business education, customizable career tracks, and ten elective minors. Whether students are pursuing roles in finance, consulting, technology, or marketing analytics, Simon’s curriculum ensures they graduate with both breadth and depth in their chosen areas.
Highly Competitive ROI
Simon Business School is known for offering one of the most competitively priced MBA programs among top U.S. business schools. The combination of accessible tuition rates, automatic merit-based scholarships, and a high rate of post-MBA employment makes it a financially sound choice for ROI-focused candidates.
Learn about admissions requirements: Understand the criteria and start preparing your application. Connect with Goalisb today and get your specific questions answered and receive personalized guidance.
FAQs
What is the duration of the Simon Business School Full-Time MBA program?
The standard program is two years, but an accelerated option allows completion in as little as 15 months.
Where is the Simon Business School located?
The school is located in Rochester, New York, within the University of Rochester.
What is the language of instruction?
The language of instruction is English.
What is the average class size of the Simon MBA?
The class size typically ranges from 100-120 students per cohort, fostering a collaborative environment.
What is the typical profile of a Simon MBA student?
Simon attracts analytically driven professionals with diverse backgrounds, typically holding a bachelor's degree and several years of work experience.
What is the academic focus of the Simon MBA?
Simon emphasizes an analytical, data-driven approach to business education, with a strong focus on economics and quantitative methods.
What specializations are offered within the Simon MBA program?
Students can specialize in areas such as Finance, Marketing, Operations, Strategy, and Pricing.
Does Simon offer any joint degree programs?
Yes, Simon offers joint degrees with other departments at the University of Rochester, including Medicine, Public Health, and Political Science.
What experiential learning opportunities are available?
Simon offers various experiential learning opportunities, including case competitions, consulting projects, and Simon Vision Fellows.
Are there opportunities for international study or exchange?
Yes, Simon offers study abroad opportunities with partner institutions around the world.
What are the admission requirements for the Simon MBA?
Requirements include a bachelor's degree, GMAT or GRE score, transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, a resume, and an interview.
What is the average GMAT/GRE score of admitted students?
The middle 80% GMAT score range is typically 600-710, and the GRE equivalent is also considered. However, Simon takes a holistic approach to admissions.
What are the application deadlines for the Simon MBA?
Simon has multiple application rounds with deadlines throughout the academic year. It's best to check the official website for specific dates.
Is there an application fee?
Yes, a non-refundable application fee is required.
Does Simon offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes, Simon offers merit-based and need-based scholarships. Information on eligibility and the application process is available on their website.
What career services does Simon provide?
The Career Management Center offers personalized career coaching, workshops, networking events, and on-campus recruiting.
What are some common career paths for Simon MBA graduates?
Graduates pursue roles in finance, consulting, technology, marketing, and general management across various industries.
How strong is the Simon alumni network?
Simon has a global alumni network that provides valuable connections, mentorship, and career support.
What is it like to live in Rochester as an MBA student?
Rochester offers a relatively affordable cost of living, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and access to outdoor activities. The University of Rochester campus provides a strong sense of community.
Is on-campus housing available for MBA students?
While on-campus graduate housing is limited, there are numerous off-campus housing options available near the university.
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