Hi all,
I have a bit of a dilemma--I have been accepted into the perfect PhD program (funded, great fit, etc) and very much want to enroll, the problem is that due to somewhat severe personal/familial circumstances, I really can't next fall. The program does not have an information about deferrals, and I do not know if they are even allowed at this university.
I've spoken to the department chair informally about the program and have been assured that they are really very interested in me. I have no interest in applying anywhere else or doing anything else, I just really need another year before I can make the move and get started. Is it acceptable to explain to this to the program? I am prepared to re-apply if I am told that deferral is not possible, but I worry that turning down the offer once will cause me to lose my place. Has anyone had experience deferring for personal reasons in the past? How is the best way to go about it?