Schools ask - What other programs you're applying to?

[xaniaphl]

I understand why schools ask, but do they have the right to? I have a mixed profile leaving me not knowing where I'll get accepted so I've applied to a wide range of schools. I'm nervous that as I list the other schools I'm applying to in the application fields, the lowest ranked school will assume it is a safety choice and see me as a yield risk. Is there any way to avoid this? If it's not a big deal, then why do they ask?

[fv113]

I was honest when the interviewer asked me. He was actually really open about it and thanked me for being honest, he said he could tell when people were lying. If the school wants you they will do anything to get you, even if they know they might be your safety school, might even make them work harder to entice you to choose their program. Good luck!

[money9111]

fv113 is correct. If the schools wants you, they'll do anything to get you.

Do they have a right to ask? Sure they do... they DON'T need you, per se. You're applying to their school haha. Think of it that way. Now, do you have to tell the truth? Not at all. Can they tell when you're lying? In some cases yes, in others probably not. If they can tell or think you're lying can that potentially hurt you? I'm sure it could because who would want to admit someone who lies during an interview?

[prnd7748]

If possible, mention 1-2 other schools which will be a bit easier to get into, than the current school (but not much easier).
Keep in mind that schools can look at the GMAT score report to see which other schools an applicant sent their scores to.

[gatortomba]

Keep in mind that schools can look at the GMAT score report to see which other schools an applicant sent their scores to.

Is this true?

[SyedSan]

Keep in mind that schools can look at the GMAT score report to see which other schools an applicant sent their scores to.

Is this true?

My strategy is to give two better school names and one lower ranked school. i.e. If you are interviewing at Johnson, tell them that you are applying to Kellogg, Tuck and Ross - In this case even if they look at your gmat score reports, you will be fine because you actually applied to these schools. Btw, is it true that schools can look at your gmat report and know where else you applied?

[olimpic]

Yes, i believe it's true, i've heard it too. One more reason not to lie.