How adverse is a gap for MS application?

Question

Plan - Fall 2023
I have just graduated with a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering in June 2022
GPA - 9.32 (Distinction)
Internships - 2  ( one at IIT , another at a DRDO lab)
Publications- none (but planning to write a review paper)
IELTS - taking coaching
GRE - will take if necessary

As you can see I need 3 things to do (IELTS, GRE, Publication),
What would you suggest?
Should I take up a job?
If I don't, how bad would it be for my application and my chances of getting an admit at good school?

A D · Answer

Hi,
A few months of work experience won't add that much of an impact on admission but will have an impact on the visa. Definitely give GRE. Not all universities have waived off GRE. Not having a GRE will limit your ability to apply to a number of universities. Give priority to GRE and IELTS 1st. A good score in GRE and IELTS is enough for you to get a good university admit since you have a 9+ cgpa. After exams, balance publication and search for a job. In my opinion, give the research papers as the last priority. You have a good CGPA. That should be enough. 
https://yocket.com/courses/masters-in-mechanical-engineering-abroad

Smoky zz · Answer

Hi Simranjeet
You have a really good Profile and I would suggest you to Find a Job for the meantime till your Visa Interview and since You'll be Applying from September of this year, Months of work experience won't matter unless you are switching branches and Also keep in Mind, Top Uni's give a lot of Importance to SOP's and a Friend of mine Got in USC without work exp for 2 Years for Computer engineering all because of his SOP. Since you aren't applying to Business course, Work exp is not Mandatory , So apply before Priority Deadline and Write GRE if Possible as in most Colleges , You Are eligible for Scholarship only if you have written GRE.

Simranjeet Singh · Answer

Okay,
Thank you so much for your inputs!
I will write GRE and then look for a job.