Steven_Walls_1991

How likely is it to receive an offer from the waitlist after April 15th? Does anyone know of a case like this?

I would exactly do what you said: "ask them what your chances are". Indeed, suppose you already have an acceptance. In that case, I suggest stating something like: "I would appreciate knowing what my chances are in Princeton since I have to make a decision this week. Princeton is my top choice, yet I will be able to wait just until this week. Hoping your understanding about this difficult situation. Best wishes".

This website could be useful! https://martindevaux.com/2020/11/political-science-phd-admission-decisions/

Did NYU already do the visiting day? No answer at the end of March seems unbelievable

If you have funding to support the other 50% of tuition and the life in NYC, it could be a great opportunity. But I do think that a MA, for instance, in eco or data science, would be a better background to apply to phd programs with high quant approach. I would suggest to speak with current and former MA students and faculty members to assess whether this option would work given your interests. PS: For the extent that I know, the MA students do not have the 50% discount.

NYU in my case...but just the rejection letter...

If you want to improve your competitiveness for the next application cycle, I would suggest applying for a quant MA. Econ or maybe an MPP with strong quant courses. If you want to do it anyway, be aware of faculty interest in MA students and RA opportunities. Also, please, assess whether the department staff cares about the MA students. A must is to talk with current grad students. But I agree with the former observation about thinking twice about doing a MA in pol sci without funding. An MA in pol sci at a fancy university does not imply better application outcomes in the future. Talk with grad student (ideally those from the MA) and faculty members.

Given that we are in March, it seems unlikely to hear good news. I guess few spots were opened (last year's cohort is higher than previous years). This would be consistent with the only two posts in the grad cafe. Let's hope I am wrong.