Proper way to decline.

[kniwor]

I finally received the package with formal terms of offer etc from Kellogg. Now the thing is I want to Decline all other other offers I've got so far asap. What is a proper mail to compose. Do I tell them where I will be joining, or just that I've received a better offer and that's it. I'm looking to do this quickly hoping offers will then be extended to others here in my school.

[Thesus]

I'm not sure you need to put too much into it, they're not uncommon. If you tell them where you plan to go or not, it shouldn't make a difference. Just be polite.

[walt526]

Short and sweet. Something along the lines of...


Dear XXX,

I am writing to respectfully decline your offer of admission. While XYZ represents a wonderful opportunity, after careful consideration I have elected to pursue my graduate education at ABC instead. Thank you very much for the offer.

Sincerely,

XXX

[tm_member]

Seriously, they don't care. They just want a decision. Be polite though, as you never know where you will end up after your PhD...

Two sentences.

"Thank you for your generous offer. I will not however be attending xxx."

[kniwor]

It's not the point whether they care or not, it is best to be sensible on one's own part.

Thanks walt526

[shy_student]

walt526, thanks a lot!
Now I know what kind of style and language I should use!

[zurich_econ]

A more trivial question: If you receive an email from a prof signed "Best, John" do you reply with "Dear John" or rather with "Dear professor Jones"? Is this the same for the US and the UK?

And if you receive a mail along the lines "Dear zurich_econ. Come to our department, it's the best, if you have questions please call!" Are you expected to reply in such a case?

[walt526]

Glad it was helpful, Shy!

Zurich, unless you know a professor personally, I'd err on the side of formality and address him/her as Professor Jones. For example, over the past several weeks I've exchanged a few emails with Professor Wooldridge and he always signs it as "Jeff," but until I meet and get to know him, it just seems more appropriate to address him more formally.

[The MAN]

Do a reverse rejection letter:

Dear University,

This year I have received a number of highly qualified admission. I'm sorry to say that I just couldn't accept yours at this time. etc.

[good_tea]

Dear University,

This year I have received a number of highly qualified admission. I'm sorry to say that I just couldn't accept yours at this time. etc.

Unfortunately, I am able to attend only one PhD program...