Decisions, decisions

[Borderline PD]

Got a (very) late admit to a mid ranking PhD program. I had it written off as too lazy to send a reject. It was actually my first choice because its a respectable program that is near family/friends, and top tier schools are out of reach because I didn't take any math beyond Calc2. Applied to 3 other schools, got a consolation admit and 2 rejects.

No funding, website states that those who enter without funding may receive it with good academic performance, but should not count on it. States that there are a limited number of TA/RA positions available, but I would assume that they typically assign TAs/RAs to 1st year students when admitted and that this is out of the question now.

Letter states that all incoming applicants should strongly consider taking a prepartory math course prior to the start of the program. I've been out of school for 3 years and candidly I could use the refresher. Except, um, the course started last monday and I got admitted on friday. There's still the math camp in late August, but self-financing and being behind on math has me nervous.

Anyone know what's up with the very late admit? Anyone know if "should not count on departmental funding" means "no chance" or if its just more of a CYOA on their part? Anyone know if its still possible to wrangle a TA/RA from them for this year?

The job market for econ PhDs is good, and a year of self-financing would not really hurt. However, my guess is that this admit is "We don't really take you seriously but we'll take your 20k". Any thoughts? I'm meeting with the advisor next tuesday and would like to be as informed as possible prior to going in.

[asianeconomist]

It would be a lot easier for everybody to answer if you mentioned the name of the University. I do not think that doing that will seriously hurt your anonymity.