I have been admitted to a Ph.D. program at a University of California with a fellowship award and full waiver etc. However, I am slightly concerned about my liability for any funding received from the department if I do not complete the entire course of study.
Obviously I am going into this with the expectation that I will be able to complete the required work, but I have slight concerns about both my ability and desire to complete such a long period of research. I have some pressing family issues which complicate my situation, and will be far across the country from all of my family.
Does anyone know what the general situation is regarding liability for payments received when it comes to withdrawals and fellowship funding? Does it depend on what stage you are at? Is there a clear precedent in these case?
I am aware that in this program I receive an M.A. after the first year, but then there are several years of further instruction and research. This is weighing heavily on me, as I am inclined to pass up the opportunity if there is a chance of liability. To add further pressure, a graduate qualification in my field is only really useful for further academic pursuits.