Some students are speculating that Haas’ decision to toughen its policy on a mandatory summer session for its acceptees is financially motivated.

“I had heard after talking to a few professors that in comparison to other business schools, Haas sees low rates of alumni contribution,” said Victor Ho, a senior at Haas and a member of business fraternity Delta Sigma Pi. “If they make people feel like Haas is home, they may be more willing to donate after they graduate.”

Tuition costs for the summer courses are approximately $1200.

Erika Walker, the executive director of Haas’ undergraduate program, did not respond directly to this assertion in an e-mail, but wrote that the summer session helps students transition into the school by fostering class unity.

Students accepted into Haas this year argue that while class cohesion is important, the administration is dealing with this issue in the wrong way.

“There are a lot of other ways to bring people out and unite the community without forcing them to decline their summer internships,” said Christopher Lin, a sophomore choosing between Haas and an internship with Merrill Lynch.