#42 Overall

University of Rochester Simon Business School

Rochester, NY · 2 years · Official Site

Acceptance Rate40%
Avg. GMAT680
Avg. GPA3.3
Class Size100
Avg. Salary$135,000
Employment90%
Annual Tuition
$55,260
Program Length
2 years

Data reflects 2026 admissions cycle

“Finance and analytics in upstate New York. Small class, serious quant chops, and an overlooked value play.”

Program Overview

Rochester Simon benefits from the University of Rochester's strong quantitative tradition. The school's economics department has produced Nobel Prize winners, and that analytical rigor infuses the MBA program. Finance and analytics are the school's core strengths, with a curriculum that's more quantitatively demanding than most programs at this ranking.

The 100-person class is small and heavily international (50%+ from outside the US), which creates a globally diverse environment. Brand management is another specialty, with Wegmans and other consumer companies recruiting from Simon's marketing program. Rochester itself is affordable and walkable, though it's a smaller city that lacks the career density of New York City or Boston.

Culture & Community

Simon's culture is intellectual and quantitative. The high international student percentage creates a globally diverse classroom experience. The 100-person class is small enough for deep relationships, and Rochester's cost of living means student budgets go further than at most private programs.

Academics & Curriculum

Simon's finance curriculum draws on the University of Rochester's economics heritage. Courses in asset pricing, corporate finance, and financial modeling are rigorous. The analytics program covers data science, machine learning, and business intelligence. Brand management courses connect to Rochester's consumer products industry. The teaching approach is analytical and evidence-based.

Career Outcomes

Simon's employment report shows 30% of graduates entering finance, 25% consulting, 20% tech, and 10% brand management. JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, and consumer goods companies recruit from Simon. Median base salary is $135,000 with total first-year compensation around $158,000. New York City is accessible by flight or a long drive, which gives finance-oriented students access to Wall Street recruiting.

Who Should Apply

Quantitatively minded candidates targeting finance or analytics careers will find Simon's curriculum well-suited. International students seeking a rigorous US MBA with strong quant preparation and a welcoming community should consider Simon. Brand management aspirants benefit from the school's consumer goods connections.

What to Watch Out For

Rochester is not a major business hub. Wall Street recruiting requires travel and proactive networking. The school's high international student percentage is a strength for diversity but can affect domestic recruiting dynamics. Brand recognition outside finance and analytics circles is limited.

Known For

FinanceAnalyticsBrand Management

Best For

FinanceAnalyticsBrand Management

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Rochester Simon?

Rochester Simon's acceptance rate is approximately 40% for the class of 2026. The school enrolls about 100 full-time MBA students.

Is Rochester Simon good for finance?

Simon's finance program is rigorous and benefits from the University of Rochester's economics heritage (multiple Nobel Prize winners). Courses in asset pricing, corporate finance, and financial modeling are among the strongest at this ranking level.

What is the average salary after Rochester Simon?

Simon graduates earn a median base salary of $135,000 with total first-year compensation averaging about $158,000. Finance, consulting, and tech drive the strongest placement.

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