How to withdraw after accepting admission?

As someone who works in university admissions, I see this situation regularly. Here's the proper way to withdraw after accepting an admission offer:Step 1: Check the deadline and policy- Look for the withdrawal deadline in your acceptance materials- Review the deposit refund policy (if you paid one)- Check if it affects future applications to that institutionStep 2: Formal written notification- Send an email to the admissions office (get a confirmation reply)- Include your full name, student ID, and program details- Be polite and professional - you may want to reapply someday- State your reason briefly (optional but appreciated)Step 3: Follow any specific procedures- Some schools require formal withdrawal forms- Others may need phone confirmation followed by written notice- International students may have additional visa-related stepsStep 4: Confirm completion- Request written confirmation of your withdrawal- Verify that your student portal status updates- Keep records of all communicationsImportant considerations:- Timing matters - earlier is better for everyone- Financial obligations - you may lose your deposit- Housing contracts - if you secured campus housing, cancel separately- Financial aid - notify the financial aid office separately if applicableSample email template:"Dear Admissions Committee, I am writing to formally withdraw my acceptance to the [Program Name] for [Semester/Year]. Thank you for the opportunity. Please confirm receipt of this withdrawal. Sincerely, [Your Name]"Remember that admissions offices understand that plans change - being prompt and professional makes the process smoother for everyone involved.

I went through this last year when I got off a waitlist at my dream school after already accepting another offer. Here's what I learned from the experience:My personal timeline and process:1. Immediately emailed both admissions offices the same day I decided2. Called the next morning to ensure they received my email3. Completed withdrawal forms for the first school within 48 hours4. Followed up a week later to confirm everything was processedWhat I wish I knew:- The guilt is unnecessary - schools plan for some percentage of accepted students not attending- Be honest but brief about your reasons - I simply said "I've decided to pursue another opportunity that better aligns with my goals"- Save all documentation - I kept PDFs of everything including the final confirmationFinancial aspects:- My deposit was non-refundable but that was clearly stated upfront- I had to cancel housing separately - that had its own deadline and small fee- Textbook orders I'd placed automatically cancelled since I never registered for classesThe emotional side:It felt really awkward at first, but both admissions counselors were actually very understanding. One even wished me luck at my new school. These decisions happen every year, and they have processes in place to offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.The key is communication - don't just ghost them. That creates problems for them and potentially burns bridges for you if you ever want to apply to that school again in the future.