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Should I apply if I am not sure that I will attend?

Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2013 12:49 pm
by sabq
OK, I have a job at the time (though not stable) and I would like to go to graduate school in mathematics. My dilemma is this: should I apply although I am not 100% sure that I want to leave my job (because I feel that I need to work one more year for the money)? On the other hand, I am not sure I will still have my job next year and so applying/admission will give me a chance to be in graduate school somewhere.

Is it possible that one receives admission and then asks the department to withhold it for the next year? I appreciate feedback from personal experience or from someone who was in a situation like this before.

Re: Should I apply if I am not sure that I will attend?

Posted: Sat Dec 14, 2013 8:21 pm
by Sam_NYC
It's not uncommon for students to get admitted, but then are unable to accept an admission offer due to financial reasons. It can be the case that you get admitted with partial or no funding. Pursuing a doctoral degree is a long process and can be costly. Honestly, you have to seriously consider your financial situation prior to applying. If you do get admitted and obtain full funding, which can range anywhere from 15k-30k on average, will this be enough financial support? Also, you must take living expenses into consideration as well.

Re: Should I apply if I am not sure that I will attend?

Posted: Wed Dec 18, 2013 9:13 pm
by lowdt
You could apply and defer for a year...but not ALL places will let you do this, and there must be a compelling reason.