How do you answer the question on your financial resources?

[gradcafe26]

Hi, all

While filling out the online applications, I have encountered this question asking my financial resources I expect to have in the future. If admission and funding decisions are separate, should I just put 0 (or leave it blank) ?

Thanks a lot!

[AlphabetSoup]

They mean two different things. Blank implies you have neglected to fill out that section whereas zero suggests that you are not receiving any external funding (or you have no savings) in the future. Which message do you want to convey?

[gradcafe26]

I see, thanks!

So I guess the best way is to put zero then, because I am wondering if I tell them I have, say, $10,000 in my savings account for grad school, that amount will be deducted from the funding package, right?

[AlphabetSoup]

Not really... funding decisions for graduate school are rarely "needs based" though they will occasionally compensate for people in enormous undergraduate debt. $10,000 is a good chunk of money but not enough to detract from a funding package (you are not telling them you have a cool million stashed away -- or even a warm one).

Note: this really depends on the school and your status. If you are an international student, you will need to prove to immigration that you have sufficient funds to enter graduate school and the financial information form may be the first part of a visa package that they help you assemble.

[gradcafe26]

Thanks sindikumva, it really helps