Post-Acceptance Contract Norm Questions

[thestry4]

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Hello!

I was fortunate enough to receive two acceptances at this point in the cycle, but I have become worried about the details and contracts as the two institutions had very different approaches to their post-acceptance paperwork.

One school called me, mailed me an official acceptance letter, and then sent a Docusign just for me to acknowledge my acceptance.

The other school only sent me an email requesting a deposit, scrub/white coat sizing, copies of some official documents, AND sent an enrollment contract. My parents and I have read and understood this contract to be actually enrolling me in the school, though I can withdraw prior to the start of classes.

I am worried that if I sign this second enrollment contract, it will impact my ability to consider other schools and acceptances. Has anyone heard of this, or know why these processes are so different? Will signing the second school's contract cause issues with other schools I am accepted to?

 

[LizzyM]

We need more information:

Is either a DO school?
Does the contract have a signing deadline?

 

[thestry4]

We need more information:

Is either a DO school?
Does the contract have a signing deadline?

Yes! Both are MD schools, and the contract deadline is today.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

I don't want to give any further advice without looking at the contract and talking to a lawyer.

Are you required to give a deposit that is non refundable?

 

[LizzyM]

This is rather wild. Does this school go through AAMC or another application route? Is it LCME accredited? When is the start date for classes (you can give just the month).

The school might be trying to grandfather this class and start in June before the student loan caps hit.... Or it is not a US school operating under the AAMC traffic rules....

 

[thestry4]

I don't want to give any further advice without looking at the contract and talking to a lawyer.

Are you required to give a deposit that is non refundable?

There is a deposit. The email that was sent states that it is nonrefundable after April 30, but the contract itself states that it is not refundable at all.

 

[thestry4]

This is rather wild. Does this school go through AAMC or another application route? Is it LCME accredited? When is the start date for classes (you can give just the month).

The school might be trying to grandfather this class and start in June before the student loan caps hit.... Or it is not a US school operating under the AAMC traffic rules....

It is a US school through AAMC and LCME accredited. Start date is late July.

 

[thestry4]

Additionally, I reached out the second school for more detail last week but I have yet to hear back. I believe this is due to the holiday.

Is it unreasonable to not sign the contract and withdraw my application/acceptance? The other institution I was accepted to is my preferred school.

 

[LizzyM]

If you prefer the other school, drop this one like a hot potato. In your shoes, I would not even have to think about it. They wanted prompt action and you are delivering. Maybe that is the method to their madness.

 

[thestry4]

If you prefer the other school, drop this one like a hot potato. In your shoes, I would not even have to think about it. They wanted prompt action and you are delivering. Maybe that is the method to their madness.

Thank you for your advice! I feel more assured in my decision making now.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Application and Acceptance Protocols for Applicants

The AAMC recommendations to help ensure that all M.D. and M.D.-Ph.D. applicants receive timely notification about the outcome of their AMCAS application.

students-residents.aamc.org

Professionalism as an Engaged Applicant and Incoming Student: More than the “Traffic Rules” | Student Doctor Network | SDN

Abstract: Professionalism matters during the application process. This article presents situations where applicants can reaffirm their understanding of

www.studentdoctor.net

There may be other strings attached to the early commitment including eligibility for financial aid/scholarships. Unless there is a guarantee, I would be wary, knowing what the Traffic Rules have established.

 

[LelouchLamperouge]

You should let us know what this program is, if others are in the same position as you. It is wild that they would make you do this.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Looking at the (presumed) school's site, I surmise enforcement of the agreement will be difficult (you aren't going to jail). The deposit fee is the standard, refundable fee set across AMCAS programs with the same deadline. I suspect you can break the agreement as soon as another, more preferable school extends an offer.

By doing this, the admissions team can follow up with you about scheduled second-look opportunities or financial aid sessions (among other things).