Should I take the qual if I plan to leave?

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SUMMARY

A second-year physics PhD student in the USA is contemplating whether to retake the qualification exam after previously failing. The student has decided not to pursue the PhD and is eligible for a Master's degree at the end of the spring semester. The discussion centers around the potential consequences of retaking the exam versus communicating with the program advisor about leaving the program after completing the Master's. The consensus suggests that discussing intentions with the advisor may be the best course of action to avoid the risk of a second failure.

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JAstrophys
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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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