yellowmint

It generally means the school has money and is less indictive of how much that program wants you (they're interested but it is not necessarily a soft acceptance). Actually, only some schools reimburse - it is getting more common but I wouldn't say it is the norm, yet. Usually, after interview weekend they mail you a check. Some schools will want the ticket stub from your plane ticket as proof you've went.

Did anyone apply to UT Austin?

I tried to make a poll about nonclinical interviews...not sure if it worked. But basically, I want to know: 1) If you are/were a nonclinical applicant, did your program do in-person interviews, phone/Skype interviews, or no interviews? 2) If you had in-person interviews were the costs covered completely, not at all, or partially?

I wouldn't email to update them because 1. you haven't completed these teaching experiences yet 2. teaching isn't that important, especially relative to research, presentations, publications, etc when it comes to admisssions. I would guess that a .05 increase in GPA wouldn't significantly help you, at this point. Plus, 3.86 is already more than solid for most schools.

Yes, it is appropriate to ask POIs questions about the overall program. You could also ask more specific questions about their research and how they like to work with students (I.e., if they like meet individually/with the lab as a whole, etc).

Yup, they're looking for normal.

Don't get trashed.

Don't memorize your answers if you're really (excessively) nervous. - My Adviser

I must hate old Family Guy - I haven't had cable since 2005, so I wasn't aware there was a new one. I like American Dad, though, a little bit.

Finally. Someone else who hates Family Guy.

Many schools invite top candidates in December every year. But interviewees don't always post it. Lots of people accept an invite then back out because it conflicts with a school they are more interested in. Then second choice candidates get a lot of last minute invites in January and February.

For all three of my interviews, the cost was covered and they said so in the emails. Maybe email the grad secretary to be sure? But I would guess the cost isn't covered if they didn't say anything.

It'll be total silence over break. While some schools begin reviewing apps in December, others don't even touch them until after break.