Will you be rejected if you cannot attend interview weekend?

[doyleowl]

A good/horrible problem to have - I was just invited to interview at one of my top choice programs (program A). Unfortunately, it is during the same weekend as another top choice program (program B ), and I have already accepted the invitation and booked tickets for program B. These two programs are tied for my top choice, so I'm wondering if turning down the interview at program A will mean I will not be accepted later down the line. Has anyone experienced this issue? What were your outcomes? Thanks!

Edited January 16, 2015 by doyleowl

[Gvh]

Your best option is to let program A know that you have a scheduling conflict and (courteously) ask them if there is a possibility of rescheduling. If they only have 1 interview/visit day, they will probably want to do a skype interview. They won't outright reject you because you have a scheduling conflict.

Edited January 16, 2015 by Gvh

[TakeruK]

I agree with Gvh -- when a conflict arises, always let them know and they will most likely reschedule you or set up a phone/Skype interview. For big programs, conflicts are almost always bound to happen!

[Chubberubber]

I faced a somewhat similar situation and found that as long as your honest, genuine and humble (don't assume you're owed anything)- people are willing to go some length for you. Explain the situation to university A (to the person you've been in touch with the most so far), and ask if they would be willing to let you come another time or do a Skype interview.

In my case, I let them know that I'd be happy to visit the campus and the department on a later date (on my own dime) either way, but that was only because I'm scheduled to be in the area anyway... However, I do think it showed them that I'm serious about the program. By keeping your interview with university B, you are also showing University A that you are a trustworthy person who doesn't go back on his/ her word (an important quality in an applicant in my mind).

[FinallyAccepted]

By keeping your interview with university B, you are also showing University A that you are a trustworthy person who doesn't go back on his/ her word (an important quality in an applicant in my mind).

I think that's a good point. It shows that when something amazing comes along, you don't immediately abandon ship for what MIGHT be greener pastures (maybe a mix of metaphors, there).

[doyleowl]

Thanks for all of the input, there's some solid advice in this thread. I'm going to contact program A and let them know about the conflict, and request an alternate date / skype interview. Fingers crossed!