Before the March 15 deadline for binding decisions, yes.
After the March 15 deadline for binding decisions, no.
If
you are considering multiple campus programs, it is courteous to inform an
institution that makes an early offer that you are awaiting an offer from other
schools. We encourage you not to hold onto multiple offers while waiting
to hear from every institution. For example, let’s say you applied to A, B, C,
and D universities. You received an offer from B and C. You know that A is your
first choice. Given a choice between B and C, you definitely prefer B. We
encourage you to decline the offer from C so that another student can receive
an offer for the space that you declined.
To
continue the example, let’s say that you received an offer from D. You are
still holding out for A, but you know that B is still your preference over D.
Decline your offer from D while you wait to see if A will accept you.
This
courtesy will enable more students to receive offers for a great research
opportunity, and your program staff and mentors will be impressed with your
professional and polished communication.