kat99

I think GRE is one of the least important factors, if not the least important. I scored 160/156/4.5 and was admitted to 6/10 schools: 3 in the top 15, and 1 in the top 5. I also lack a strong pedigree. A strong writing sample and good LORs can make up for lack of pedigree and below average GRE scores. I worried so much about GRE and pedigree because it seems the smallest factor can shut you out in this process. In retrospect, my advice would be to focus on your writing sample. It's the most important factor and it's in your control! I spent a good five months on mine (including research), and it paid off.

Oh man it's a really hard decision. I am skyping some advisors this weekend to discuss it, but I think deep down, I am too afraid of not choosing PhD. I mean, no matter what your qualifications, it's a bit of a lottery right? Not sure if I want to risk another lottery in 2 years...

Thanks all, really helpful!

Thank you all for the advice; it is much appreciated. @Abendstern Sorry to be so cryptic about details. I am a very private person and am just looking for general advice without having to share too many specifics. The MA offer is from a Canadian university if that helps anyone who is stressing over MA programs right now.

Hi all, I have been keeping up with the forums and feel that some of you might be able to offer some advice. I have been very fortunate to receive two fully funded PhD acceptances this application season to Leiter ranked institutions. This morning, I was accepted to my top choice for master's programs (a good program with a great track record for moving students to good PhD programs). It is also fully funded with a living stipend on which I would be comfortable. I know that I want to pursue philosophy as a career path but am unsure whether I am ready for a PhD program, (my undergrad program wasn't the best and I am inexperienced in several areas of philosophy). In addition, I have a complicated family situation and attending the master's program would allow me to stay closer to my family for awhile. The master's program sounds so good short term. On the other hand, I don't know if I could forgive myself if I didn't make it into a PhD program the second time around. Also weighing on my mind, is the fact that I am older than most applicants, (I have a non-traditional educational experience where I took many years to complete my undergrad), and I am ready to get serious about a career path. If there is anyone who can relate or offer any advice, I would really appreciate it. The master's program has asked me to let them know asap because they are offering me special funds which could be allocated elsewhere.

I can't believe no one has replied or asked this question since 2009! For anyone still looking for information on this, I have had success using interfolio for LORs for Rutgers, University of Michigan, UC Berkeley, University of Arizona, Cornell, and University of Virginia. Schools that have required separate forms (therefore not allowing interfolio) include MIT (although this might just be for philosophy-not sure) and University of Massachusetts.