[GRE: Digital Download...is ETS screwing us over more than we thought?]

My understanding based on conversations with ETS is that each school/program dictates whether a digital copy is acceptable or if a hard copy must be sent. As for the price, I can't comment. But I am curious, as one would expect that a digital download would cost less to send.

[Fall 2014 applicants??]

I saw that you have offers from 2 others schools. So the question, you'll have to ask youself is, how much would you wanna go to this particular school if it were funded? I'm assuming they give everyone the same amount and then it's up to you how to get there, so people who live close by are probably at an advantage.

If you want to take that risk you might write back to tell them, that you can't afford the visit although you want to come, but that you'd have to decline if they can't fund you---but in a nicer way. If you play your cards right, they might be able to fund more of your travels. I still find it weird to offer funding based on that...

 

I think you're absolutely right. Honestly, the other two programs are more compelling to me--it's really more a matter of funding. I guess I'm trying to keep my options open until a clearer picture of funding comes through. But yeah, it does seem a bit weird.

[Rhetoric/Composition 2014 hopefuls]

Thanks, bhr, for asking the question that I've been thinking as I read this thread.

 

Interesting list, ComeBackZinc. Those are some of the programs I expected. Good to know I'm not wholly nuts.

[Fall 2014 applicants??]

I should add that they have extended what amounts to about 50% of the cost it would take to get there. It's a highly ranked and competitive school, but this honestly leaves me feeling a little cold. Actually, they're the only school that hasn't offered to cover the cost of a visit entirely, which is odd. 

[Fall 2014 applicants??]

Speaking of funding, is it typical is it for a school to tell you that they will be making funding decisions based on whether you can fly out and visit them to demonstrate your dedication to the program?

 

I'm not entirely sold on this notion, myself.

 

EDITED to add: That might not be exactly accurate. More like insinuate that if you don't visit, you're endangering your chance to be considered for funding and that they won't know whether you're a good fit until you do so.

[Fall 2014 applicants??]

This is just a general thank you from a lurker and first-time poster. It's kind of wonderful to see a supportive community of people here. One of my big concerns, as something of an introvert, is going to a new school and acclimating to new people and communities, but you all give me some hope that there will be cool people to meet at a great many schools. Also, it's nice to not be the only one who is feeling that creeping sense of anxiety and eagerness about what the next few weeks will bring!