1 year???? nope, i wont trust this. you send in the application, it will be processed and usually you will be called for registration the next intake. unless they have interview. you have to pass the interview. universities are trying to increase the number of masters and phd students.

but the part about the professors blackmail, i will trust. heard it so many times. that is why some uni appoint 2 supervisors for a student. if only one supervisor, u die2 also have to ampu them like hell.

i am luckier i gues. my masters' supervisor offered me phd. in ukm. since she is a very2 nice lady, i am grabbing that chance. starting my phd in september.

** FYI, any problems with your supervisor, you can voice it out or write a formal letter to the dean of postgrad. altough it might worsen your relationship with current supervisor, atleast you dont have to go through the nightmare too long. the uni will appoint new supervisor.