Should I give the Physics GRE in 2023?

[NishV]

I am a graduate of a decently reputed Indian university with a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and Master's in Physics (5-year dual-degree program). My final CGPA was 7.94/10. I applied to more than 25 programs for either a Master's or a PhD in Physics starting Fall 2023, including more than 15 US Grad schools. Unfortunately, I have been rejected by almost all of them so far. I do have previous research experience in high-energy physics (including my thesis), but no publications or presentations. I spent a lot of time preparing my SOP and getting it reviewed and edited, as it was the only thing in my control. I am not sure why I did not get any acceptances or waitlists at all. I intend to try again this year for Fall 2024 admissions. Is giving the physics GRE recommended for me? I have been reading more and more about why its importance has decreased in grad school applications, but should I still give it? If I get a good score, will it help compensate for the cgpa or any other lackings in my application? Any advice is highly appreciated. Cheers.

[centarsirius]

Same thing happened to me, but i didn't give GRE or pGRE either time. Take this year to constantly improve your sop and start/continue a research project up until application time. Try to get a pub or presentation out of it, and try remote research with professors abroad. GRE and pGRE aren't required by a lot of schools, some even tell your outright to not send them as they won't consider it. So, you can control 3 things now - your SOP, research and LoRs directly influenced by your results and research process

[veil]

Same thing happened to me, but i didn't give GRE or pGRE either time. Take this year to constantly improve your sop and start/continue a research project up until application time. Try to get a pub or presentation out of it, and try remote research with professors abroad. GRE and pGRE aren't required by a lot of schools, some even tell your outright to not send them as they won't consider it. So, you can control 3 things now - your SOP, research and LoRs directly influenced by your results and research process

Hi Centarsirius,
Since you mentioned remote research I have few questions on that. How to get a remote research opportunity with professors abroad? Is there a specific website/portal/forums/communities available for that? I am not from physics or research background. So it would be helpful if you advise me.