Ill Family Member, Accepting offer?

[canlamade]

Hi all, could use some advice for my situation.

I have applied to graduate school and narrowed down the choices, and found a program that suits me very well. However, I have ill parents and there is a small chance I may have to move to their area if things get worse. However, I do not want to put my life completely on hold on the chance that I would have to move.

Would accepting the offer and then backing out later be looked down upon? I would be able to reapply for admissions for the next year, however this university doesn't allow one to defer admissions. I wouldn't be going to another Ph.D. program, perhaps taking some online graduate non-degree courses, but mostly working during this year to support my family.

[ktel]

I think an ill family member would certainly be a suitable reason for backing out. You went in with the best intentions, and circumstances got in the way. I would proceed as if you would be able to go there no problem, and if that doesn't work out, I doubt anyone would hold it against you.

[anonyouknow]

I agree with ktel- there really aren't any better reasons for backing out of an acceptance than that. That sounds like a very tough position for you, I hope all goes well!

[Ancient CS Grad]

I also agree with ktel, however, I would take it one step further. Do you really want to be part of a program or University that would not deal with an ill family member in a reasonable fashion? You might even find that there are exceptions to every rule, including no deferred admissions. Over the years I have been hired during hiring freezes and accepted for programs that I applied to after application deadlines. That said, I hope that all goes well for your parents so this discussion is moot.