How to respond to PhD offer emails politely So it is the season where PhD offers are doled out (for US universities anyway). I am lucky enough to have received a number of offers via email. These typically comprise of a polite email from a member of faculty, normally the director of postgraduate study (or similar), along with an offer letter attached. 

My question is, are replies to these emails expected? I felt compelled to respond with a quick thank you - I wish I could have asked some insightful question about the program but I couldn't reliably find something to ask.

How should one respond to these offers? What about schools that I will not likely attend as I was offered a school I prefer - should I decline at this stage?
If you already know, for sure, which school you are going; simply respond to others by thanking them and telling them that you already chose your school. Something like the following: 

Dear Sir/Madam, 

Thanks for the offer. However, after extensive consideration, I chose the university X for my Ph.D. 

Kind Regards, 

Your Name