Second choice school wants a decision before I'll even hear back from my top choice

[nikkimx]

Hi! I'm looking for advice. I've been accepted to my second-choice school, but I'm still waiting to hear from my first-choice school. My #2 school wants a decision by March 1st, but I don't expect to hear back from my #1 school until mid-March... Can I ask my #2 school to extend my decision deadline? Is that even possible?

[fuzzylogician]

Yes, you can and should do that. Are they offering you funding? 

You should also check to see if they agreed to the CSG resolution: https://www.cgsnet.org/ckfinder/userfiles/files/CGS_Resolution.pdf

[nikkimx]

The agreement looks like it only applies to funding, of which they made no mention. I have an outside fellowship that covers my cost of attendance up to $39,800 per year. The estimated COA for the school is $42,000 per year, so I imagine with a few days per month subbing at the local school district, I should be okay.

If I email them asking for an extended deadline, will that reflect poorly on me?

[fuzzylogician]

No, it won't reflect poorly on you. And if a school that hasn't offered you funding is pressuring you to make a decision, in my opinion the only thing you can do is accept, and later rescind if you get a better offer. I don't think anyone can fault you for that. But for starters, see about getting an extension. 

[nikkimx]

 

Thank you! I'll ask for an extension if I don't hear from my first choice before then.