how should I interpret this?

[UnlikelyGrad]

Re-reading my first acceptance letter for the gazillionth time, I notice that it includes this sentence:

"If you would like to visit prior to making a decision, please contact (name) to make your travel arrangements."

Does this mean they're going to pay? Or will the person just have recommendations on where to stay etc.?

Yeah, yeah, I know I should just call her and ask. But I've applied to another school in the area, and I'd like to postpone making travel arrangements until I've heard from that one--would like to visit both in one fell swoop.

[cardnav]

I took that to mean they aren't paying. When I visited a couple of my schools, the adcom people had recommendations of where to stay etc. and wanted to be involved so they could make sure your visit was meaningful by organizing an itinerary in advance.

[socialpsych]

I think it would be worth asking. If they didn't say anything about financial assistance there might not be any, but it is certainly reasonable of you to wonder.

Can you tell from the results board when your other school in that area is likely to notify? If it's soon, you might as well wait until you hear from that one...

[rising_star]

Always ask if they'll help pay for a visit. You never know, they might offer you $200 or more.

[readyforachange]

I'd definitely ask. When I received an e-mail of acceptance, there was wording very similar to yours about visiting. A few days later, I received another one with more details, including funding for a visit ($500 for flight!!).