Is it inappropriate to ask to visit a school?

[kpkpkp]

I've been accepted to Baylor and University of Iowa. Prior to acceptance I went to a visiting students weekend at Baylor, but Iowa accepted me without an interview. Before I make the choice, is it okay to ask to visit Iowa? I'm not sure how to breach the topic, especially travel expense wise- I don't expect them to pay, so how to I ask to visit without asking for handouts? I of course wouldn't complain if they offered to pay, but I also know they are under no obligation. How do I phrase the email? I'm really interested in the program, but money isn't exactly flowing for me. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated. 

[Markerz]

It is absolutely fine to ask as long as you arent demanding. Understand that its possible that Iowa doesnt have as much resources and might not be able to generally provide this or reimburse trael expenses. Explain that this is a big decision, you are very interested and you just want to take all the factors into account and you feel that a visit would help you do just that. If you are really worried about looking like your asking for handouts then you can qualify this in your email that you would be willing to pay, you just need time and arrangements in which case you should be adressing it to those you want to meet. I wouldnt because if you offer, they wont, whereas if you dont adress it and its important, and they say no you can qualify it later.

I have had huge success with this myself. A school I applied to accepted me without a visit and wanted to give me a very short deadline. These things are negotiable. Asking for a visit shows interest, if they want you they might be able to do it even if they normally dont. Funding one visit for an interested student is different from doing it for many potentially interested students.

Edited March 13, 2016 by Markerz

[kpkpkp]

If anyone finds this helpful, I emailed and asked- the department and the professor offered to cover the expenses. Great outcome, really excited to visit. I think the lesson here is that it never hurts to ask. 

[rising_star]

@kpkpkp, I'm glad it worked out for you! In general, it never hurts to ask about the possibility of visiting because few departments will say no to helping coordinate a visit, even those who can't offer any assistance with the cost of visiting.. They know it's a big decision for you and want to help you make the best decision you can.