how to turn down an offer

[hajjibaba]

I have to turn down a really generous offer. I feel bad about it. Have never done this before. Any tips? Thankyou

[DRMF]

Well technically the only thing you need to do is log in to your admissions portal, find the question "are you attending" and click "no". That form may also ask you which school you ended up choosing and why etc.

Now typically you would also email the program director, as well as other faculty / admin people who you've been in contact with, to let them know that you've decided to go somewhere else. It doesn't have to be long, just say you are grateful for their offer, but after serious considerations you've found school X to be the best fit for your graduate career. If it applies, say that you'll keep them in mind when thinking of a postdoc (or any sort of next stop in your academic career).