Taking a break between master’s and PhD in Physics To any PhD holders or candidates out there, how common is it to take a break after your master’s before applying for a PhD course? I currently have my master’s and due to bond fulfillment have a research attachment for a few years.

Would my PhD candidacy be any more difficult/less viable because I’m both older and have been away from academia longer than those who have gone directly from an MSc to a PhD course?
Many people find it more difficult to pass their PhD exams if they take a significant break.  It can often be helpful to have things fresh in one's mind for the exams.  However, this, of course, can vary by the individual.