How to say "no"?

Question

I've applied to 12 universities in the UK through several local agents. These agents were really nice, and went through a lot of trouble to help me process my application.

But in the end, I'm only going to choose 1 university. How do I tell the rest of the agents that I'm no longer going to the other 11 unis that I've applied to? They are now contacting me to finalize my application.

How can I tell the rest of these agents that I'm no longer interested in the universities that I've applied to?

I feel bad, like I've wasted all their efforts.

How can I say "Thanks, but I'm no longer interested in going to Uni x*x anymore" in a nicer way that will not offend anyone?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Don't feel bad. They should feel bad. It is their job to pressure and push you into attending a certain school, because then that school makes money. They will not take it personally, they'll be bummed that they couldn't make a sale, which is exactly what they are trying to do.

You have no obligation to be nice to these people. Yes, they helped you, but out of their own interests. You tell them what you decide, nicely, or not nicely, so long as you don't let them talk you out of your decision, you'll be fine.