How to tell a school that you are not going there?

[LittleDarlings]

How would I tell a school that I accepted, and paid my non-refundable deposit to that I am not going there anymore? I want to do it in a nice way, I am not sure who to contact.  I feel kind of mean doing it. Will they get mad at me? 

[CardTricks]

Depends on why you're changing your mind I think. Going to a different program?

[LittleDarlings]

Depends on why you're changing your mind I think. Going to a different program?

Yes, a better financial offer

[seeingeyeduck]

Well, to be blunt, there's no "nice" way to do it since you are breaking an agreement.

But they can't force you to go. Just give your reasons and apologies. Say that finances are important to you and that not worrying about them as much would enable you to focus entirely on your studies. On the other hand, would you go to the school if they matched the higher offer?

[GeoDUDE!]

Did they offer you a GA/TA/RA/Fellowship? If so, they have to release you.

 

if there is no financial compensation in your agreement, you can just change your mind.

[LittleDarlings]

Did they offer you a GA/TA/RA/Fellowship? If so, they have to release you.

 

if there is no financial compensation in your agreement, you can just change your mind.

I was offered a fellowship for a different school than where I accepted

[nugget]

I have no experience with this sort of situation, but what about saying that that you were pleased to have been accepted to such a great program and it was your first pick. But you have recently been offered generous funding at another school and due to your financial circumstances you will need to take the least expensive option and attend the other school.

 

If you're writing an email I'd tweak up the wording, of course, and make it sound more professional.

[LittleDarlings]

Thank you!