After doing a large amount of studying and reaching a point where I felt prepared enough to do well in even a Google interview, I wasn't able to get any response from any of the FAANGs I applied to. I have BSc from a top university, 2.5 years of experience at a startup, and there are no noticible red flags in my resume. I also even got a referral from a friend at Google, but didn't hear back from anyone. I did an OA from Amazon and a recruiter asked me about my availability for an onsite but then ghosted me for a month and later said the team wanted someone more senior.

Was wondering if anyone else is having trouble getting a shot at an initial interview for entry SWE roles, and if this is because of COVID, or if I really do need more experience, a master's. Thanks.