L265

I do not think there is any problem with asking or additional funding, as long as you are respectful in your request. One of my offers did not include health insurance, and the other did. I asked my POI if there was any way for the program to pick up the cost of my premium through the graduate student insurance plan, and she said that there was not, but that she would try to find a mechanism to add extra money to my stipend so that I can buy my own insurance on the healthcare exchange. The program director OKed it, although I am waiting for details on how that money will be dispersed. They have said it is complicated to add funds to standardized stipends, especially at state schools, but when there is a will, sometimes there ca be a way. Good luck! 
 

Hi, I've been informed that I'm #1 on a waitlist for a PhD prorgram, and that if I can wait a few more weeks, I may have more information. The program director told me that they didn't feel they could extend a first round offer because I don't have a master's degree, but acknowledged that I am a very strong research fit and would fit in well with the culture and mission of the school. 
If the program made three offers for three spots, how likely (based on what you've heard or your experience, etc.) is it that one person will decline? All of the applicants seemed very competitive at the interview.