If someone is an “edge case”, would it ever make a difference that they could cover part of the costs (normally covered by SIAI) with their own funds?
Yes, it might, although covering one’s own costs is no guarantee (since space and our attention is limited), and unusually large expenses (e.g., airfare from Australia, or being really attached to having one’s partner with one) is not a reason not to apply.
If someone’s serious about reducing risks and wishes to cover their own expenses, though, coming for a short visit (1 to 7 days, say) is almost certainly an option. We have a guest room and can help people hash out conceptual confusions (you don’t need to agree with us; just to care about evidence and accuracy) and think through strategy for careers and for reducing existential risks.
Yes, it might, although covering one’s own costs is no guarantee (since space and our attention is limited), and unusually large expenses (e.g., airfare from Australia, or being really attached to having one’s partner with one) is not a reason not to apply.
If someone’s serious about reducing risks and wishes to cover their own expenses, though, coming for a short visit (1 to 7 days, say) is almost certainly an option. We have a guest room and can help people hash out conceptual confusions (you don’t need to agree with us; just to care about evidence and accuracy) and think through strategy for careers and for reducing existential risks.