Doctoral Admissions

Upload a list of the advanced mathematics coursework you have completed. These are courses beyond calculus, and introductory linear algebra, etc. If you are in the process of completing your current degree, please include the courses you are taking and plan to take as you finish your degree. The information in this list is in addition to the information on your transcripts. You may format this as a bulleted list or as a table. Please include the course name, term taken, course grade (when available), textbook(s) used with author(s), course contents or topics/chapters of textbook(s) covered. It is expected that applicants will be prepared to enter our 8000 level coursework. Typically this includes year-long courses in abstract algebra and rigorous analysis.                 

Table format

Upload unofficial transcripts or academic records in the “Academic History” section of the application. 

• We are looking for transcripts from institutions where degree-seeking coursework has been completed.
• Official transcripts are not required. If you are admitted and choose to matriculate you will be asked to submit official records before enrolling at the University of Minnesota.

International applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency unless coursework has been completed in a designated country. Domestic applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency.

Unofficial test scores are to be uploaded in the “Test Scores” section of the application. Your application will be reviewed as complete with your self reported, unofficial, test scores. Official Scores will be processed by the Graduate Admissions Office throughout the admissions process. The School of Mathematics has the same access as you to see if these scores have been received.

• The TOEFL iBT is the preferred examination for assessing English Language Proficiency.
• We expect scores to be in line with the minimum scores for admission found on the Graduate School's website with a preference for a speaking score of at least 23.
• Official English language proficiency must be submitted to the Graduate School following the instructions on the Admissions Website.

Statements

Upload in the “Materials” section of the application.

Required Personal Statement

Your personal statement that gives us the best sense of you as a Mathematician. The prompts below were developed by our admissions committee to give applicants a sense of what they are looking for this this statement. Using the prompts is not required.

• What is your mathematical background? Talk about the following:
• How you came to the field of mathematics.
• What course's subject matter piqued your interest.
• Any mathematical research you have done.
• An experience showcasing your motivation and/or persistence.
• If you know the area of math you want to specialize in, discuss how you arrived at that (Note: We do not expect applicants to our graduate programs to have specific research interests upon admission. Our students typically develop their research interests as they complete their introductory coursework).
• Why are you applying to the University of Minnesota?
• Why do you want to continue your Education in Mathematics?

If you would like to be considered for our Master’s program if not admitted to our Doctoral program, and have indicated this in the Mathematics section of this application, please address the following:

• Why a Master’s at the University of Minnesota?
• If you are applying for one of our emphasis areas, Data Science, Industrial and Applied Mathematics or Math Education, specify how your goals for furthering your education align with the emphasis you are applying to.

Recommended Service Statement

Reflect on your approach to working with others and contributing to communities. How have you taken initiatives or leadership roles in serving or engaging with your mathematical, college, or local community? Describe an experience where you worked as part of a team or group. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them? What did you contribute, and what did you learn from others? For all of these, how do you see yourself continuing this work in graduate school?

Statement Guidelines

• Approximately 2 pages
• Be specific, reflective, and authentic; this is your opportunity to provide context beyond transcripts and CV
• Use the prompts to guide your statement, but do not feel bound to them. We value clarity of purpose, evidence of preparation, and your ability to persist through challenges.

A CV is a detailed document that highlights your professional and academic history. Please include: 

• Work experience
• Achievements and awards
• Scholarships or grants you’ve earned
• Coursework
• Research projects and publications of your work 

Upload in the “Materials” section of the application.

• Add three recommenders to the “Recommendations” section of the Application. Typically these recommenders are mathematicians you've been involved with in advanced coursework or research projects.
• Only letters from those listed by the applicant on the application will be accepted. 

Letter writers will receive an email from the application system ([email protected]) with instructions on uploading their letters. If recommenders have difficulty with the application system, they should reach out to the Graduate Program Coordinator ([email protected]) for assistance.

Publications and articles may be uploaded under the “Writing Sample” section of the “Materials” tab of the application.