Need some advice

[serge23]

Hey everyone,

I just got accepted to SUNY Downstate, but in thier letter they said that I have to reply in two weeks with a $100.00 deposit. So am I obliged to pay the $100 and accpet their offer even though I want to wait ande hear from other schools? Im not exactly sure to do...Please help


Thanks....

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[po' boy]

Most schools are strongly encouraged by AMCAS not to require deposits until after May 15. However, you'll still come across a couple of non-compliant ones that do.

Call them on Monday and ask if you can hold off on the deposit until May 15, for two reasons: 1) you still have other applications pending, and 2) because of financial hardship (you're broke from applying/interviewing, they'll understand that).

They may still require the deposit, in which case you should ask if it's refundable up to a certain date. You definitely don't want to give up your only acceptance at this point because of $100, but there's a chance you'll be able to get it back because of a later acceptance. (They'll either send back your check since they never cashed it, or write you a new check.)

 

[racergirl]

Standard procedure for you is to accept the spot and send the $100. It's fine for you to accept and hold multiple acceptances until May 15. If you make a decision on or before May 15th, most schools will refund your $100 deposit if you later decide not to attend. Congrats on your acceptance by the way.

 

[serge23]

Thanks guys for your help....I wil call them on Monday and ask....

I wish you the best!!

 

[omores]

Originally posted by po' boy
Most schools are strongly encouraged by AMCAS not to require deposits until after May 15. However, you'll still come across a couple of non-compliant ones that do.

No, what AMCAS specifies is that deposits be REFUNDABLE until May 15th, which is the date by which you're supposed to have settled on a school. With the possible exception of non-AMCAS and DO schools, you definitely have to shell out $$$ to hold your spot, but you'll get the money back if you withdraw before May 15.

And Serge, congratulations on your acceptance!

 

[Random Access]

From the AAMC site:

It is recommended that the acceptance deposit not exceed $100 and be refundable until May 15. After that date, a school may retain the deposit as a late withdrawal fee. If the applicant matriculates at the school, the school is encouraged to credit the deposit toward tuition.

(this does not really apply for EDP, obviously)

 

[wolferman]

I just thought I'd bump this post since I needed the info today. I received my letter of acceptance from NJMS today and it said I had to give them a $100 deposit within 2 weeks. Just like the OP, I wondered if they were trying to secure my matriculation with $100. So, now I'm relieved to know that I'm not locked into anything and can still accept other offers if they arise.