should i ask for more money?

[eucalyptus]

I've finally decided where I want to go next year! I am super happy and excited about my decision.

I've been given a great financial package at this school. I am thrilled with this package but the pragmatic side of me is saying "at least ask for more, this is your only chance!". However, neither of my other two acceptances come with higher stipends, so I don't feel like I can really use them as leverage. Would it be totally terrible of me to just ask if my chosen school provides money for things like relocation, a new computer, etc. in hopes that they'll offer some? Or is there a way to be more direct?

I'm pretty sure one of my other schools wants me enough that I could get them to up their offer, which I could then use to up my chosen school's offer, but I'm not willing to go that far... I don't want to string the prof along when I know I'm not going to go there.

[Jae B.]

Would it be totally terrible of me to just ask if my chosen school provides money for things like relocation, a new computer, etc.

Hmm. I think it would be fine to ask just like that. You can be enthusiastic but say you're concerned about settling in at their school, rather than making a comparison to other schools' funding offers. Tell them you'd like more assistance. Not terrible at all.

I'm still waiting for one of my financial aid packages, but if I were to consider going there I would definitely need some relocation assistance!