How long do programs give you to let them know you're going?

[kep308]

I hope to have this problem! Let me say that first. I have two interviews this month but have yet to even hear anything back from 3 other schools. If you're lucky enough to be accepted to a program how long do they typically give you to let them know if you're going? What if they say you have to let us know in 2 weeks but you have yet to hear back from other programs? Is this a typical issue?

Thanks!

[PaulK]

This does happen. Usually they will give you the date when they need a yay or nay. But you appear to understand that this is a good problem to have.

What most people do (and PA schools are prepared for this) is to accept a program and continue interviewing. If you end up choosing a different program, you call the first school and let them know. If you want to be really above-board, you can tell them, "I would like to accept the seat in your class. In fairness to you, I should let you know that I have yet to hear from one (or more) schools. There a slight risk there, but I think it's marginal - you're tell them, in effect, yes, but I'm not so desperate that I might prefer to take another offer.

I would highly discourage you from saying yes to two different programs at once; that's just unnecessary. If you have two offers, take the one that interests you the most and let the other know that you have done so.