In the US you can apply for a PhD path or apply for a masters. The benefit of going straight to PhD path is that it is free (read: zero dollars) if you are in t

In the US you can apply for a PhD path or apply for a masters. The benefit of going straight to PhD path is that it is free (read: zero dollars) if you are in the STEM field. Masters are out of your pocket, unfortunately. I made the mistake of applying for a PhD track and failed to get in, as those are super competitive. Now I feel as if I cannot ask for new letters of recommendation to try to get a masters. Its a shame, as I would love to go to graduate school one day. I was offered the chance to be a non-matriculated student with the option of becoming a regular student after 1 quarter, but that is expensive. Once I pay off my car I think I will try to take that offer.