Programs Second master degree in Physics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a candidate with a master's degree in physics from Stockholm University, who has a low GPA of approximately 2.62 and has faced rejection from several U.S. PhD programs. It highlights the challenges of GPA conversions across different educational systems and suggests that applying to PhD programs in Europe may be a more viable option. Recommendations include focusing on achieving a high GRE score and applying to a broader range of universities. The candidate is advised to consider various European institutions while avoiding the UK due to residency requirements. Overall, expanding the application pool and improving standardized test scores are emphasized as key strategies for success.
mahondi
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Hi all,

I just would like to ask that I took my master degree in physics at Stockholm Uni. Although my research was great (first author of a paper in top ranked journal ),my gpa was terrible. I am not sure but It is something like 2.62(When I convert it via website wes.org). I applied Phd in US but I did not get any acceptance. What should I do? Should I apply for a second master degree in Physics in US?

Thanks in advance..
 
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WES grade conversions in general aren't very "accurate". By it's metrics, a very top student at my university in Spain (who has grades good enough to receive several scholarships throughout the degree) has a 3.1 GPA, which is dismal in the US. Comparing grades from widely different education systems is very tricky.

If you already have a MS degree, why not try applying to phd positions in the EU. You are qualified for many of them and it makes more sense in your situation. If you're bent on applying to the US, I would probably concentrate on getting a very high score on the GRE's and applying to a variety middle tier schools with specific research foci in mind.
 
Thank you for the reply. I took my bachelor in some university at Turkey. Do you know that which university do you suggest in EU for the Phd? And I applied Carnegie Mellon,Purdue,Rochester in US but I did not get any acceptance. I think they are also middle tier, right?

I also need to say that I forgot Canadian Universities already since they want an 3.5 gpa for the master to get into Phd.

Thank you.
 
There are many, look around. Try any country except the UK, as you will require 3 years of residency in order to qualify for a phd studentship.

Applying to only 3 schools is not enough, especially as an international student. Aim for high scores on the GRE's (900+) and try applying to a dozen universities next time.
 
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
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