<p>What is a polite way to phrase it, especially if you have been in contact with professors in the graduate program? How truthful are you supposed to be? Should you mention who you decided to work with and what are the factors leading to your decision?</p>
<p>This may seem like a insignificant detail, but I wouldn't want to offend anyone who will be reviewing my papers or who I might collaborate with in the future.</p>
<p>I sent professors with whom I have been contact with an email saying that I appreciated their time and patience in answering my questions, but that I had chosen to go to [school X] after much consideration. I think that is enough to avoid offending people, who (since they go through recruiting every year) will likely not remember the interaction with you in 5 years time.</p>
<p>"While your program is extremely strong and will doubtless produce many fine graduates, you must realize that the number of exellent graduate programs that have admitted me far exceed the number I can attend. This is in no way a reflection upon your program's continuing ability to educate leaders in this field, and I wish you luck with your recruiting this year.</p>
<p>Condolences,</p>
<p>GopherGrad"</p>
<p>Sorry for the repeat joke.</p>
<p>LOL. That reply would get me blacklisted from their universities.</p>
<p>Hahaha I like that GopherGrad :) It's quite similar to a rejection letter to a scohol that's rejected you!</p>
<p>Listen to porkypig. That's all you need to communicate.</p>
<p>If you're feeling generous, then tell the DGS where you are going instead. Unless the reason is a more generous support package, keep your reasons to yourself. If the only reason is support, then feel free to share. But be prepared for a counteroffer.</p>
<p>What if you haven't picked a school yet, but you know you don't want to go to school X?</p>
<p>It is the polite and RIGHT thing to do to decline the offer ASAP. In your case, since you have ruled out school "X," that would mean, decline their offer, politely, now. There are waiting lists and students who would love to be in your shoes.</p>
<p>Exactly, but how do you say it?</p>
<p>
[quote]
porky pig:
I sent professors with whom I have been contact with an email saying that I appreciated their time and patience in answering my questions, but that I had chosen to go to [school X] after much consideration.
[/quote]
</p>
<p>Dear Dr. __</p>
<p>Thank you so much for your time and patience in answering my questions. After careful consideration, I have decided not to accept __'s offer. I wish your program the best of luck.</p>
<p>If they really want to try to change your mind, they'll email you back and ask follow up questions. Most should understand that this is YOUR decision, not theirs.</p>