What's the proper etiquette for status check??

[FionatheFeminist]

I'm driving myself crazy waiting for these decisions and so badly want to email the grad admissions offices but I am unsure of the proper etiquette for that kind of stuff. What should I say in the email? Also, when is it too soon to do this? Would it be too soon to email a school with a Jan 15th deadline?? Any feedback? Thanks!

[Bonkers]

I think it is a bit early... I would give it, at the earliest, a week into February. The first time I applied I would check my status by calling the department. They usually do not mind.

[neshmi]

You don't want to seem overly desperate. The whole application process is a mindgame, you want them to know you want them, but you want them to think you want some others too, just not as much. Anyway, hold back as much as possible, I think even a week into February can be pushing it. As soon as you get an acceptance from one school, that is a great opportunity to contact POI's or departments and push them to move forward with you. They then know they have to get on the ball and get you in (and they also know that University X wants you!). Financial packages from other universities can also be great bargaining tools to help entice your university of choice to step up to the plate, I have heard of some grad students doing that with success, but again, proceed with caution on that one.

[bee kel]

Just be patient! It's still very early and most people won't start hearing anything until sometime in February, if not later. They've got a lot of applicants and it might make you look kinda bad if you're calling them this early.

When they make a decision, you will be informed. We're all in the same boat!

[TMP]

Agreed with the above comments. Wait. Just wait.

However, if you feel the urge to pick up the phone, just dial a friend or relative and vent to them.

[FionatheFeminist]

Would it be too soon to email a school with a Jan 15th deadline??

oops, I meant Dec 15th deadline!!! But perhaps, it's still too early..