Making my application Spring 2012

[Clay Made]

I had acceptances from USC, Chicago and SAIS but unfortunately I am not able to go due to a death in the family. I didnt think I would be able to face the immediate work in front of me.

I am wondering whether to apply for Spring 2012 or Fall 2012. Ideally, I would like to apply Spring 2012 but none of the schools I was admitted to offer an admission cycle at that time.

So my questions are:

Are there any disadvantages to me applying in Spring 2012 as opposed to Fall 2012?

What schools have Spring 2012 admissions?

Thanks so much!

[cunninlynguist]

Sorry for your loss, it must be a very difficult time.

Ultimately it's your decision, but I'd prefer to wait for the Fall. It's only a few months - you'll only get this degree once, so you should go exactly where you want to. The programs with spring admissions may not be worth it at all, especially relative to the options you'd have for Fall 2012 (and you've done well already, which is encouraging).

[Mal83]

I had acceptances from USC, Chicago and SAIS but unfortunately I am not able to go due to a death in the family. I didnt think I would be able to face the immediate work in front of me.

I am wondering whether to apply for Spring 2012 or Fall 2012. Ideally, I would like to apply Spring 2012 but none of the schools I was admitted to offer an admission cycle at that time.

So my questions are:

Are there any disadvantages to me applying in Spring 2012 as opposed to Fall 2012?

What schools have Spring 2012 admissions?

Thanks so much!

What about deferring for a year? Hopefully you won't have to give up on your acceptances if you can just defer. So sorry for your loss.

[Clay Made]

Thanks for the replies.

I'm considering both options. I think my background compares favourably to some of the students currently in WWS and HKS so both schools are on my list. But I am also conscious that I need to make up time as well. If the right program arrives, and covers my interests, I think I will go for the Spring admissions.

NYU Wagner is one I am definitely considering. Anyone have any experience willing to share thoughts?