Have been offered a 2 day trip interview chance?

[panthers9876]

I have a question for anyone out there, what are my chances at a particular grad school if I have been offered to come meet the faculty and check out the research facilities for 2 days(with all my expenses being paid for by the grad school). Hopefully someone can answer my question because I dont want to make a rash decision about a job offer, only to go to the grad school and not get in, and then not have the job. Thanks

[rising_star]

It really depends on the program. Some use those weekends to weed out candidates from their shortlist while at others its merely a formality. It's difficult to say for sure.

[Minnesotan]

It seems like often, if they pay for the trip, you're in pretty good shape. Nothing in life is guaranteed, of course, but you've likely got a good shot.

You're obviously on the short list.

[crustaceangirl]

I think your odds are good. Some programs invite twice as many applicants as they can accept... but I get the feeling that for most of them, the paid-for interview weekend thing is mostly to make sure you're as good in person as you are on paper, and to sell you on coming to their school.

Are you still waiting to hear from any other programs?

[panthers9876]

Hi, I haven't heard back from 2 other schools yet. This is the first school I have heard back from, and I mean I am very happy with my opportunity. My other option was to go into the military as an officer. But I am sure glad I waited it out, and I am going ot go to the interview and if I get accepted, I will be a very happy guy. I keep on hearing this short list, what exactly is the short list, and what does it mean? Thanks for your replies.

[Minnesotan]

"Short list" means that when they've eliminated most of the candidates, they have only a short list of names left from whom to select. If you're on the short list, it means you're in the final round(s) of the selection process.