UMD Smith MBA Recommendation Questions

The University of Maryland Robert H Smith School of Business MBA application for the full-time program requires two recommendations. Professional recommendations from someone who has managed the applicant are preferred, typically a current or previous supervisor. If these options are not available, the applicant should choose recommenders who can attest to their professional skills, such as a person who managed the applicant through a volunteer or civic organization or a client.

The UMD MBA recommendation questions for the current admissions season are as follows.

2026-2027 UMD Smith MBA Recommendation Questions

Section 1: Recommender Information

Institution/company information

Section 2: Rate the Applicant

Recommenders are given seven abilities to rate using the following scale:

• Exceptional (Upper 5%)
• Outstanding (Next 15%)
• Very Good (Next 15%)
• Good (Next 15%)
• Next 50%
• No Basis for Judgement

Each ability below has its own drop-down menu:

Knowledge in Chosen Field
Motivation & Perseverance Toward Goals
Ability to Work Independently
Ability to Work Collaboratively
Ability to Express Thoughts in Speech & Writing
Ability/Potential for College Teaching
Ability to Plan & Conduct Research (For professional programs: Ability to plan and complete projects)

Section 3: Overall Endorsement

Please indicate the strength of your overall endorsement:

• Highly recommend
• Recommend
• Recommend with some reservations
• Do not recommend

How long have you known the applicant?

In what capacity have you known the applicant?

Section 4: Statement of Assessment