Hello there again: I started the tread but dissappeared............. you all might be thinking that way. But not, of course not! I was just going through all of the responses about the programs that i mentioned. Most of the people really did expressed their experience and feelings abt the phd or masters program. Honestly, i am an undergrad student majoring in accounting and finance. But i found myself strong and interested in finance than accounting. so, i am planning to go for finance in master or phd (whater i can get into). i will be done with in 2 semesters (maybe less). Reasons for PHD the first target: The first thing is--- as we know (most of us international students) we always have financial problem in paying tuition. Working 60hrs a week and going to school is not easy ( i have an experience of 3 yrs). so, if i get in phd program ( assuming that phd candidate will get the TA or GA or whatever funding) i can concentrate on studies and do good. secondly, once i (anybody) get admitted for phd there wont be anything (status, visas , financial situations) worry abt but studies. however, masters will be my other option (again the same assumption of GA or TA ). third option will be apply for H1 ( which i am not really interested in ). the place where i work (been working for more than 3 yrs) will help me on getting H1 visa. Besides, i don't have the best GPA in the world. ( if i make 4.0 every remaining semesters the overall will be about 3.40). i used be A1 student back home but we enjoyed first semester pretty good which is the main cause of my wonderful GPA. but right now i am on track, i always regret my early days in USA. anyway, past is past and we can't recover and present is the most important time. so, i am working hard these days. JUST MY FEELINGS & EXPERIENCE guys. i am preparing for GMAT. (please suggest me for preparation of GMAT) so, i am really looking for some suggestions from those people who are doing masters or phd in any university. or anybody who can recommand me a decent university where i don't have to pay for my further studies. informations will always be appreciated. johny