Chances for Top 50 CS PhD & How to Improve in Next 2 Years?

[nikolaj]

Hello everyone,
I'm an international student aiming to apply for fully funded PhD programs in Computer Science (T50 in the US), with a focus on Systems Programming, Programming Languages, Databases, or Hardware Architecture. I understand that it's impossible to predict admission chances precisely, but I'm looking for actionable advice on how to significantly strengthen my profile over the next +-2 years before I apply. My Background:

GPA: +- 3.8 - 3.9 (I used conversion tool)
Authored papers in Machine Learning and Databases. I currently have one preprint on arXiv and one paper in WoS-indexed journal. Additional peer-reviewed papers published in leading national journals in my home country (including VAK and RINC listed venues).

Also I have some projects:

1. A compiler with AST and microcode generation for x86_32 and x86_64 (currently working on transitioning from microcode to machine code generation).

2. An i386 operating system with ELF support, threading, and basic graphics.

3. A Machine Learning library in pure C# implementing CNNs, RNNs, and GANs.

4. A DBMS for embedded systems with noise-immune encoding for data.

5. A noise-immune file system for embedded systems.

6. A 3D engine written entirely in pure C#

Also I already have little work experience in internships at several relatively well-known companies in my home country that work on OS development, CPU design, and database systems.

My main goal is to receive feedback on what I can do over the next two years to become a strong candidate for PhD programs in my target areas — whether it's research, internships, open-source contributions, coursework, or something else. Thank you in advance for your insights and guidance!

[Goegraphy Tutors]

Hi! Your profile already looks very strong — with a great GPA, a solid research background, and impressive systems-level projects.

To boost your chances further for the top 50 PhD programs in the US:

Aim to publish in top-tier CS conferences (like PLDI, OSDI, SIGMOD, etc.) — this carries more weight than national journals.

Secure strong letters of recommendation, ideally from well-known researchers in your field.

Tailor your SOP to match specific labs/faculty and emphasize your relevant projects.

Consider open-sourcing your work (like the OS or compiler) to show real-world impact.

Apply to research internships (MPI-SWS, ETH Zurich, GSoC, etc.) — they can lead to collabs and publications.

You’re definitely on the right track. Good luck!