Testing Should I take the qual if I plan to leave?

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A second-year physics PhD student in the USA is contemplating whether to retake a qualification exam after failing previously. Despite being eligible for a Master's degree by the end of the spring semester, the student has decided not to pursue the PhD further. The student is unsure if they should attempt the exam again, given a lack of preparation due to their decision to leave the program, or if it would be wiser to discuss their intentions with the program advisor to avoid a second failure. The discussion seeks insights on the best course of action regarding the qualification exam and communication with the advisor.
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Hi all, I'm a second year physics PhD student (in the USA) and I'm about to retake the qualification exam (failed my first time last year). I've actually decided a few months ago that I do not wish to continue on with the PhD after I finish the Masters part of the program. I am eligible for the MS at the end of this coming spring semester, but the qual is being administered this month. My question is, do I retake the qual (even though admittedly I have not been preparing as I should have (probably because I know I will not carry on to PhD) ) or would it be best to avoid failing the qual a second time and just talk to the programs advisor and communicate my interest in leaving the program after completion of the MS?
Any insight is appreciated! Thanks in advance!
 
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