Umm not to be a wet blanket, but you're EXCEPTIONALLY well qualified.<p>I'm not downplaying your achievement, it's incredible that you've done everything that you have including getting the grant.<p>The only caveat being that you didn't have a network. I think that's what doing a masters programme is for... developing a network, that will lead you to an advisor and hence a "formal" PhD programme.<p>I don't have a PhD, but I would love to go back to school and get one. Been rejected 4 times now so I guess my time is running out or already has.<p>I love that options like this exist, in your searches have you found something for Canadian citizens/PR holders (I'm not a US citizen so this method won't work)?