<p>I know this is the age old question and it's kind of beating a dead horse; but I'm torn between accepting an offer from the University of Florida with funding or an admissions offer from GA tech without funding, both for a PhD program in Mechanical Engineering. By posting here I'm hopeful that I'll get replies specific to either school because from what I've read on the internet so far there are varying opinions on this kind of situation and it mostly depends on school and program. </p>
<p>My main question - Is the unfunded offer from GA tech basically a polite rejection? Am I basically competing for advisors and research positions with a ton of more qualified students that were offered funding? Or is it common for first year PhD (coming straight from undergrad) to not be offered funding? </p>
<p>This would really affect my decision because if I'm competing mostly amongst a student body that is already funded and had tuition waived then it'll be a longshot for an advisor to opt to take me on over a student that doesn't have to pay tuition. Even though it's really my dream school (not to mention Atlanta vs Gainesville) I don't want to go there if it means a small chance of finding an advisor and funding after the first year. Accumulating the first year's debt is not really a major concern as much as the possibility of not finding an advisor after the first year. Any insight, comments, or answers are greatly appreciated. Thanks!</p>