How to build a physics PhD school list for theory/cosmology?
Trying to figure out how to narrow down on physics phd programs.
I hear applying to ~10 schools with a few reaches, mostly realistic, and maybe one safety while taking into account potential advisor is common practice but how do people actually determine competitiveness/advisor fit? Especially for the lesser known schools and those outside the US.
For context, here are my stats/background in case anyone has school suggestions or advice on where I should be looking:
- Research interests: theoretical cosmology, quantum gravity, high-energy theory
- BS Physics Major w/ a minor in Math, expected grad: 2027
- Major GPA: 4.0
- Cumulative GPA: 3.7
- Latino CC transfer student into an R2 state school (no research opportunities at cc)
- No REUs
- 2 semesters + Summer 2026 doing research with a theory/computational nuclear physics group on campus (HRG models)
- 2 years of college-level physics/math tutoring
- 1 year of community service tutoring math/science for K–12 students
- Based in CA, United States
-Also, if it matters, I had like a 2.0 upon my high school graduation (2022)
Would appreciate any advice !