S2 Q&A: I already have a US master's - should I do a second master's or a doctorate?

It's your call, and both paths work with Day 1 CPT - which way are you leaning?

• Second master's: usually cheaper (most partner master's programs total about $15,000-$37,000; doctorates about $44,000-$67,000), you keep using Day 1 CPT, and a doctorate stays open for later - so there are more years in which an employer could register you for the H-1B lottery. It doesn't bring a new OPT, and it shouldn't repeat your first degree.
• Doctorate: the next level up - a good fit if you want to move up, or if another master's would repeat your field. After a doctorate, going back to a master's is hard to justify, so the doctorate years are usually your last student years for the lottery.

Many students hesitate because of the DHS rule that could limit same-level programs. As of USCIS's November 10, 2026 update it is not in effect (a federal court postponed it on September 14, 2026), and what happens next depends on the court case. No one can promise an H-1B selection. Our senior admission consultant can map either path to your dates: book a free call.