I'm in a somewhat similar situation, although it's just for the first year and concerning a living stipend. UCLA didn't say I was on the waitlist for funding in my letter, but rather said I was guaranteed a funding package that didn't include a first year living stipend. I was guaranteed tuition and fees for first year. Additionally, I was given a guarantee of a TAship 2nd to 5th year for tuition, fees, and a living stipend. Compared to other departments I've been in touch with, I think UCLA usually has larger cohorts, especially in recent years. This may explain these funding decisions. I'm holding out hope that they have more funding, but are being strategic about how to allocate it. I've reached out to them, but haven't heard back yet.
