Admissions FAQs | Simon Business School

Spring Semester 2021 FAQs:

Full-Time MS Admissions FAQs Admissions FAQS

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We take the time to get to know each applicant personally.

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Find answers to the most commonly asked questions. If you still have questions after reviewing our FAQs, please contact our Admissions Office at admissions@simon.rochester.edu or (585) 275-3533.

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Important Note: As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve around the world, please know the Simon Admissions Team has care and concern for you, your families and friends, and all those affected. If you have specific questions or concerns about the application process, please reach out to us. We are committed to supporting you and your graduate business goals during this challenging time.

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Applying to Simon

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Do you have any tips for completing a quality application?

Yes. Below are a few tips for submitting a competitive application:

Read all application instructions and refer to the FAQs often
Review application deadlines and allow yourself ample time to prepare your application
Familiarize yourself with our standardized testing policies, and schedule any required tests in advance of your desired deadline
Use your full legal name (as it appears on your passport) when filling out your application and registering for standardized tests
Check your online application shortly after submission to confirm the status is "complete"

Check out our webinar archive for additional application tips from members of our Admissions Committee.

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Can I apply to more than one program?

No. Applications may be submitted to only one program in an academic year.

Are there any prerequisites?

It depends on the program you’re applying to.

Simon’s MS in Accountancy program is highly focused and specialized, so it is helpful to have a background in business, economics, accounting, or another related area. Simon’s MSA is a CPA licensure qualifying program, which means that there are several prerequisites that applicants must meet in order to be considered for the program. While we do not provide transcript reviews prior to receiving an application, you may find it helpful to review our list of MSA prerequisites to determine whether or not you have completed the necessary coursework. Our program faculty advisor will review an applicant’s transcripts prior to rendering an admission decision.

For the MS in Business Analytics, MS in Finance, and MS in Marketing Analytics programs, there are no official prerequisites, though we know that students enrolling in all four MS programs benefit from obtaining experience with programming languages before classes start. If you’re admitted to one of our MS programs and the Admissions Committee feels that additional programming knowledge will aid your success at Simon, you will receive further direction—such as taking a class at a local community college or leveraging online resources like Coursera—in your letter of admission. If you'd like to get started with some additional training, the programming language you’ll want to focus on depends on the MS program you’re pursuing:

MSF: Python
MSA, MSBA, MSMA: R Language

If you have further questions about this, please reach out to the Admissions Office.

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I have a three-year degree, can I still apply?

If you participated in a three-year bachelor’s program (e.g., BCOM), this will satisfy the education requirement for our program.

What is the application fee and how can I pay it?

The non-refundable application fee is $90 US dollars and can be paid by credit card within the online application. Applications are incomplete until payment is received. Some applicants may qualify for an application fee waiver—review our fee waiver requirements to determine if you are eligible.

How do I select the MS internship track?

Admitted students who have paid their enrollment deposit will receive instructions on how to make their track selection. Domestic students will receive an email in April, while international students will receive instructions as part of the I-20/DS2019 process.

Do I need to send my official test scores, transcripts, and bank documents to your office before I submit my application?

No, please do not send us any official documents at the time you apply. We do not have the capacity to store paper items and therefore will not open, process, or review any hard copy materials sent to us.

Should an offer of admission be extended and then accepted, we will request official documents identified as part of your application at that time.

Please note: If any of your exam results will expire before the start date of the program to which you are applying, you should provide your official scores to us at the time you submit your MBA application and notify our office, or you will need to retake the exam.

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What should I include on my résumé?

We suggest limiting your current résumé to two pages. Please include your employment, academic, and extracurricular history. For those without full-time work experience, internships should be included.

What is the letter of recommendation process?

We do not accept letters of recommendation. As part of the online application process, you will be asked to supply contact information for two references. If the Admissions Committee decides to contact either of your references during the application review process, you will be notified. We strongly suggest listing references who are familiar with you in a professional capacity.

Am I required to submit a video essay?

No, the video essay is optional. The video essay can add a unique dimension to your application that otherwise is not available, as it allows the Admissions Committee to watch you respond to an interview question.

If you do opt to include a video essay, your video essay link will appear in your checklist on your applicant portal. You have 24 hours to complete your video essay after submitting your application and paying your application fee. If you do not complete your video essay within 24 hours, it will no longer be considered as part of your application. Even if you indicated you would complete the video essay in your application, you will not be penalized if you do not submit one.

I'm having trouble getting my video essay to work. What advice do you have?

First, be sure you have a secure internet connection, computer with a webcam and microphone, and an updated version of Adobe Flash—all are necessary to complete the video essay. In addition, you will need to use either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as your browser.

Instructions for recording your video essay:

To begin press the red [Start Test] button. You will start by testing your equipment (video and sound) with a 10 second practice session.
Once you have thoroughly tested your equipment and acknowledge that it is working, you will be prompted to record your video essay.
The system will display a question for you to answer. This is a random question assigned specifically to each candidate. You will have 30 seconds to collect your thoughts and prepare your answer. A visual timer countdown will appear on the screen.
You will have up to 90 seconds to respond with your answer to the video essay. You may use the entire 90 seconds or stop the recording when you have sufficiently answered the question. A visual timer countdown will appear on the screen.
When your recording is stopped you may review your recording. If you are satisfied with your video essay recording, you may submit it. If you would like to record the video essay again, you will have the opportunity to do so.
The system will allow you three chances to record your video essay. Each time you redo the video essay, you will be given a different question.
After three attempts at recording you will not be given the opportunity to record again—it will automatically submit the third attempt and you will not be able to retract the submission.
You will see a message that reads “We have successfully received your video submission” after you have recorded your video essay.

Reminders:

You have three attempts to record your video essay—each attempt will present a different question.
You have 30 seconds to prepare your answer.
You have up to 90 seconds to respond.
After three attempts, your final video will automatically submit and you will not have the option to retract it.

Additional information:

Download a step-by-step guide with visual aids »

I am reapplying, what do I need to do?

All applicants are required to submit a new application.

If you applied for 2021 entry: Please login to your existing account (with the email address you used for your previous application) and begin a new application. Your transcripts and test scores (if still valid) will carry over, however you may need to reupload your test taker score report again. You will be prompted to submit new essays and several other areas of your application before submitting.

If you applied before 2021: Simon recently launched a new application system and does not have access to previously submitted materials, so you will need to create a new account to apply.

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What is InitialView?

InitialView is a video interview platform that allows international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency through a live, unscripted interview and a writing sample. You can sign up for an interview on the InitialView website, and if you have any questions about the interview process, you can contact InitialView directly. Note that although InitialView is based in China, it is open to all applicants around the world.

How will my InitialView interview be used?

The Simon Admissions Committee will use your InitialView interview as part of the holistic review of your application. While this is not a required component, it is an excellent way to add another dimension to your candidacy.

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Should I complete both the InitialView interview and the writing sample?

Not necessarily. The writing sample portion is an optional component—we will review your InitialView interview without an accompanying writing sample.

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Should I submit my application if my InitialView interview is scheduled past the application deadline?

We will continue to look for new InitialView submissions after the application deadline, but note that if you submit a completed application before your InitialView link is available, we will proceed with reviewing your application to avoid any delays. We will add the InitialView link to your application once available, but we cannot guarantee that it will be reviewed alongside your other application materials. As such, it is strongly advised that you schedule your InitialView interview well before you submit your application to ensure we receive the link in a timely manner.

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Application Support

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I forgot my username and/or password, who should I contact for assistance?

If you forgot your password, please follow the instructions located on the Application Login Page to reset.

If you forgot the email associated with your application and/or are still having trouble logging in, please contact Simon Admissions at admissions@simon.rochester.edu.

I don’t believe I am receiving emails regarding the status of my application. What should I do?

Emailed updates will be sent to the email account associated with your application and will originate from admissions@simon.rochester.edu. Check your email settings to allow emails from our address.

I need to revise my essay, résumé, or supplemental materials, but I have already submitted my application. What should I do?

Unfortunately, updates are not allowed after an application is completed and sent to the Admissions Committee for review.

Can I check the status of my application?

Yes. Once your application is processed, you will be able to see whether or not we have received your materials and if they are under review on your status page. To access your status page, please log in to your application and you will be redirected to your Applicant Status Page. Please wait at least 15 business days after submitting your application to allow for sufficient processing time. If you have questions or suspect an error in the processing of your materials, email us at admissions@simon.rochester.edu.

Keep in mind that the timing for you to hear a decision from us varies depending on which deadline you choose—those who apply for an early deadline with a completed application are guaranteed to receive their decision sooner.

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Deadlines and Decisions

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What are the application deadlines?

Application and decision notification deadlines for our full-time MS programs are available here.

Which application deadline should I apply for? Do I have a greater chance of being admitted if I apply in the first deadline?

First and foremost, do not rush to submit your application just to hit the earlier deadlines. We would rather see your most competitive application—including retaking the GMAT for a more competitive score or waiting until an anticipated promotion goes into effect to strengthen your résumé—even if this means that you wait to submit your application for a later deadline. Simon uses a waitlist to ensure that we can make admission offers across every application deadline. We do not have a specific number of available offers for any given application deadline; each year our offers vary depending on the quality and size of the applicant pool.

Second, review our deadlines and take into consideration all that will need to be done to submit your application by your targeted deadline, including receiving your copies of test scores and transcripts. Keep in mind that the timing for you to hear a decision from us varies depending on which deadline you choose—those who apply for an early deadline with a complete application are guaranteed to receive their decision sooner.

Third, merit-based scholarship consideration is available throughout all application rounds. As the application cycle progresses, available scholarship funds diminish; however, there will always be scholarship funds for highly qualified and competitive applicants

What is rolling admission?

We process and review applications the moment they are received by our office. We never hold applications, which means that if you apply earlier in an application window, there’s a strong likelihood you will receive your decision sooner than the “guaranteed by” decision date for that round.

Do you have a spring entry?

No. Fall is the only entry term for our Full-Time MBA and MS programs.

How and when will I receive an official decision notification about my application for admission?

Official notification that a decision has been made is delivered by phone and/or email to the number/email address on file in your application. Decisions are made and communicated by the notification date corresponding to the round in which your application was submitted and are accessible via the status page. It is important to keep both your email address and phone number current. Any changes to either can be made from within your online application.

I was not offered admission and want to speak to someone about this. Who do I contact?

All admission decisions are final. However, we welcome your application for next year. We encourage you to visit our online selection criteria and class profile so that you may compare your candidacy to those who have already enrolled at Simon. To improve your candidacy for next year, we recommend relevant work experience (including internships as well as part-time and full-time experience), a competitive academic profile, strong communication skills, and a demonstrated potential for leadership.

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Standardized Test Scores

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Codes for official score reporting to Simon Business School:

If on the day of your exam you are given the option to provide your results to Simon free of charge, you may use the below codes to do so. We will only access your results if you are a confirmed student for the purpose of marking your scores “received official” in your application.

GMAT Codes

Full-Time Two-Year MBA Program: WX9-8-R-10

Full-Time MS Program: WX9-8-R-13

GRE Code

All Programs: 2972

TOEFL Code

All Programs: 7260

IELTS Code

During the exam, choose from the pull-down menu: University of Rochester - Simon Business School

After you have taken the exam, contact the test center and file a request.

Duolingo English Test

There is no code to submit your Duolingo English Test scores. Please enter your scores on the Test Score screen, and send us your certified test results.

Do I have to take the GMAT or GRE?

Simon Business School encourages submission of a GMAT or GRE to support your application for MS study and to provide an assessment of verbal, quantitative, and analytical skills. If you are unable or prefer not to submit a standardized test score, please note that you may waive this requirement if you meet one of the following criteria:

GPA of 3.2 or higher on a scale of 4.0 or 4.3
GPA of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.5
GPA of 7.5 or higher on a scale of 10
GPA of 82% or higher (out of 100%)
“First Class with Distinction” division
“First Class” division

If you have documentation to verify your institution’s GPA scale or your degree’s classification and your cumulative GPA per the criteria above, you do not need to provide a WES or Josef Silny educational credential evaluation. If you do not have the documentation to prove to the Admissions Committee that you meet the waiver criteria, you will need a credential evaluation from a third party, such as WES or Josef Silny, in order for us to approve your test waiver.

Regardless of your cumulative GPA and eligibility for a test score waiver, if you have limited or weak performance in math or business courses, we recommend either taking non-matriculated courses or submitting a standardized test score to demonstrate your capabilities.

Please contact admissions@simon.rochester.edu with questions.

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What online standardized tests do you accept?

We Accept the following exams:

If you are able to take advantage of any of these options, we suggest you register for and complete your exam as soon as possible.

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Do you have standardized test score minimums?

Each candidate receives a holistic evaluation of all aspects of the application. Simon values diversity in our student body, and the Admissions Committee actively seeks candidates who can make unique contributions during and after their study. While we do not have any test score minimums, admission is competitive. We encourage you to review the selection criteria and class profile for the program you’re interested in to learn more about our currently enrolled students.

What are the requirements for submitting my test scores?

All scores are submitted electronically through the online application

GMAT scores, use the "Official Test Taker Copy" (instructions, view an example)
GRE scores, use the "Test Taker Score Report" (instructions, view an example)
TOEFL scores, use the "Examinee Score Report"
IELTS scores, use the "Test Report Form"
Duolingo English Test scores, enter your scores on the Test Score screen, and send us your certified test results; please note: you will not need to upload a Score Report; however, you will be asked to confirm you have sent your scores to Simon Business School within the application

Official exam results only need to be provided to us if you are offered admission or if your scores will expire prior to the start of your program. If any of your exam results will expire before the start date of the program to which you are applying, you should provide your official scores to us at the time you submit your application and notify our office, or you will need to retake the exam.

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Do I have to take the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test?

An English proficiency exam is required for all international applicants whose native language is not English. Simon Business School accepts the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test. This requirement is waived for applicants who meet the following conditions prior to matriculation at Simon:

Attended 3 or more academic years (at least 6 semesters/9 quarters/9 trimesters, not including summers) of post-secondary education taught solely in English and received a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a college or university where English was the language of instruction.

If you qualify for the waiver, please indicate that in your application. You will be required to upload supporting documentation stating “I meet the English Language Proficiency waiver requirements.”

If I qualify for an English proficiency exam waiver, can I submit an InitialView interview?

Yes. We strongly encourage international applicants to complete the InitialView interview and writing sample. While this is not a required component of the application, it is an excellent way to add another dimension to your candidacy that the Simon Admissions Committee will use as part of the holistic review of your application.

Do you accept Duolingo English Test scores?

Yes! Simon Business School accepts the Duolingo English Test in addition to the TOEFL and IELTS exams. The Duolingo English Test is taken via a computer with a camera and includes a proficiency score, video interview, and writing sample, which are shared with Simon Business School when you send your results. Certified results are available within 48 hours of your test session and can be sent to schools for free.

You may find more information on sharing your Duolingo English Test scores here.

Applicants who choose to submit a Duolingo English Test score will be required to share their score with Simon at the time of submission.

Do you accept TOEFL MyBest scores?

We only accept TOEFL iBT scores from a single test date; however, if you would like to provide us with your MyBest score in addition to your TOEFL iBT score, we will consider it as part of our review process.

May I submit a screenshot of my TOEFL/IELTS score report?

TOEFL: Screenshots of TOEFL scores will be accepted as appropriate supporting documentation. Upload a full screenshot (including name and address in English) or scanned copy of your online TOEFL score report into the application.

IELTS: Screenshots are not accepted. Upload the scanned copy of your score report with the Test Report Form Number visible.

If my TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo English Test score is expiring, do I need to take it again?

TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test scores expire two years from the test date. Your application must be submitted prior to the test score expiration date. If your score will expire before the start date of the program to which you are applying, you should provide your official scores to us at the time you submit your application and notify our office, or you will need to retake the exam. ETS, IELTS, and Duolingo will not send an official score report after expiration.

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Can I submit my application without uploading my test score report?

Standardized test sections of your application must have one of the following to be considered complete:

A required test score report attached (for Duolingo English Test, enter scores on the Test Score screen*), or
Uploaded verification of waiver eligibility

Applications missing this information will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed. Ensure that all proper support documentation has been successfully uploaded to your application before submitting.

The Admissions Committee will only consider documents that are included in your online application. We do not accept official paper test score reports at the time of applying and will not be checking for receipt of your official scores until after an offer of admission has been made.

*Please note: if you took the Duolingo English Test, be sure to send Simon Business School your certified score before submitting your application.

How long is my GRE score valid?

For individuals testing on or after July 1, 2016, GRE test scores are valid for five years after your test administration date. For example, scores for a test taken on July 3, 2016, are reportable through July 2, 2021.

For individuals who tested between August 1, 2011, and June 30, 2016, GRE test scores are valid for five years after the testing year in which you tested (as indicated in the GRE® Information and Registration Bulletin from that testing year). For example, scores for a test taken on May 15, 2016, are reportable through June 30, 2021.

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Transcripts

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Will you accept my transcript if it isn't in English?

Transcripts must be in English or translated to English. The translated version should be certified and notarized or otherwise authenticated. Both the original and translated transcript should be uploaded to your application.

May I submit a screenshot of my transcripts?

No. Screenshots of transcripts are not accepted as supporting documentation. We require a scanned copy of your transcript, issued by the institution attended. We cannot accept a copy of your online academic record.

My degree conferral date is not listed on my official transcript, what should I do?

In addition to uploading a scanned copy of your official transcript to the online application, you should also upload your diploma, making sure it includes your degree and the date of conferral.

May I upload a certificate of achievement or other non-academic record document?

No. It is not necessary and is not required as part of the application process. If you feel these materials positively support your application, we suggest mentioning these accomplishments in your optional essay.

I’m enrolled in undergraduate or graduate study, and my current term grades are now available. How do I report them to you?

You do not need to submit new grades. The Admissions Committee will contact you for an updated transcript if one is needed. If you receive an invitation to interview, you are welcome to share new grades at that time.

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full-time programs.

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We take the time to get to know each applicant personally.