Did you sign a contract ? Does the contract mention how long the probation period is ? Does this company have a HR department ? Have you asked other people you work with how long they spent on probation ? If I were you , I would start looking for a new job and try finding references within your current job now . If possible write up your own written reference and get your boss to sign it . If they question why you even need a written reference , just say that you are interested in applying for a masters or PhD program and that you need a written reference from your current employer . Also there are casual McDonald ' s employees who are working the same hours as you and earning $ 2628 an hour . Including time and a half on public holidays . I would not be happy .