In an unexpected move, the Harvard Business School instituted a classroom seating policy for students in its MBA program.

Beginning this fall, the school's administration will decide all seating assignments, replacing the traditional "first come, first serve" method of previous years.

Business School students said yesterday that perceived competition for better grades and for the professors' attention had caused seating conflicts in the past.

Under the traditional system, many students sought more attention or a better grade by sitting in the first three or four rows, said a second-year MBA student, who asked to remain anonymous.

"By having a better seat, you become more visible to the instructor, get called on more, and perhaps get a better grade," he said.

The old system often led to unnecessary competition and stress for students on the first day of class, the student continued.

According to a Business School News Office spokesperson, many students used to compete for classroom seats by arriving and waiting--at times four to five hours--outside until the doors opened.

Under the new policy, seating arrangements will remain the same throughout the school year.

A number of students indicated they were pleased with the new seating regulation.

"The change would eliminate a lot of unnecessary competition," said another second-year student who requested anonymity.