Problems of applying to both UK and US schools

[a fragrant plant]

I've already had offers from a few UK schools. They want me to reply them in 6 weeks (that will be late Jan). The problem is, I'm still waiting to hear from the schools in the US, which won't start reviewing applications till mid-Jan. Also, I won't know anything about funding in the UK until May or June. I'm wondering if anyone is in similar situation, and how do they handle the different time line?

[balderdash]

I've already had offers from a few UK schools. They want me to reply them in 6 weeks (that will be late Jan). The problem is, I'm still waiting to hear from the schools in the US, which won't start reviewing applications till mid-Jan. Also, I won't know anything about funding in the UK until May or June. I'm wondering if anyone is in similar situation, and how do they handle the different time line?

Depends on the school - Oxbridge has the FUF, which is a personal guarantee that you'll be able to pay for the course whose offer you're accepting... so you don't want to accept if you can't honestly sign the FUF. If you're not talking Oxbridge, then it's less of a problem.

I would just call them and tell them your situation. They want you to go there, otherwise they wouldn't have accepted you. So they should be willing to give you an extension on your response, provided it's somewhat reasonable. For an example, I was accepted to an MA in the States with a response deadline of March 1 last year, but I wouldn't hear from UK schools until March 15th. I called the US school in late February and got the extension to March 31st. It all worked out.

As a last resort, accept the US offer and tell them straight out that you may change.

[oiseauaudio]

Peanut, Well done! Did you apply to Cambridge by any chance?

I've not heard back from them yet...that's why I ask!

Thank you! Also, I would definitely call the UK schools and explain the situation. If I am admitted to Cambridge, I might be in the same boat as you!

Good luck!

[anxious2011]

I am in exactly the same situation. Have until Feb 28th to decide, but not sure I am going to hear back from other programs by then. Was planning to just call the school and explain.

Peanut, did you have any luck changing the acceptance deadline?

[a fragrant plant]

I am in exactly the same situation. Have until Feb 28th to decide, but not sure I am going to hear back from other programs by then. Was planning to just call the school and explain.

Peanut, did you have any luck changing the acceptance deadline?

Hello, I contacted the institution's admission office and they advised me to 'accept' the offer anyway. If I change my mind later, all I need to do is to inform them as soon as I know. I've spoken to a few UK-based applicants about this apporach too. All of them said it's completely acceptable to retract your acceptance at a later date if you change your mind or there is not enough funding for you to go. My institution confirmed this in a F&Q section on its website. I advise you to check the admission website or call for reassurance.

[anxious2011]

Hello, I contacted the institution's admission office and they advised me to 'accept' the offer anyway. If I change my mind later, all I need to do is to inform them as soon as I know. I've spoken to a few UK-based applicants about this apporach too. All of them said it's completely acceptable to retract your acceptance at a later date if you change your mind or there is not enough funding for you to go. My institution confirmed this in a F&Q section on its website. I advise you to check the admission website or call for reassurance.

Thanks! Will definitely give them a call and see what they say, Cheers!