So, the story is that like many people here, I am applying for Direct Entry programs for 2010. I got an acceptance letter for program A, which is an excellent program, but for a few reasons not my top choice. They gave me 2 weeks to reply. I would very much like to go to program B, but I spoke to them and they probably won't be mailing letters out until the deadline for program A has passed. There's no guarantee, of course, that I will get into program B. How should I handle this? Is it OK to send in an acceptance and deposit to program A and then withdraw that if I get into program B? (This is provided I'm willing to lose the money.) I don't want to do something unethical, but I don't want to hold out for program B if I'm not getting in, especially when I already have a sure thing now. I know a lot of people get into this situation, and I'm not sure how they handle it.
Congrats on being offered acceptance to all three programs. You are in a very fortunately position to make a choice.
I would tell School A that you need to give up your space in the program. Give them feedback about the program, and also tell them the truth (you received a very good scholarship at School C, and that their schedule fit your family life better.
Schools do keep track of the reasons that people decline offers of admissions. I would encourage you to be honest to School A.
Good advice--I especially appreciate it from someone who is in the administration side of the house! The letter was written as you said, and I think I left the "door" for program A open in case I later come across people affiliated with that program (as inevitably happens). I really did like them, but I also liked the other program. It's a little scary to have made a final decision!!
UVA Grad Nursing
1,068 Posts
Busy:
Congrats on being offered acceptance to all three programs. You are in a very fortunately position to make a choice.
I would tell School A that you need to give up your space in the program. Give them feedback about the program, and also tell them the truth (you received a very good scholarship at School C, and that their schedule fit your family life better.
Schools do keep track of the reasons that people decline offers of admissions. I would encourage you to be honest to School A.