Master’s Admissions
MS applicants are expected to be prepared to enter our 5000 level Mathematics courses. Typically this includes undergraduate coursework beyond calculus and introductory linear algebra in areas such as abstract algebra, real analysis, probability, graph theory, or topology.
We are in the process of reviewing Master's applications for Fall 2023 and expect to notify all applicants of the status of their applications by mid-April, 2023.
We have changed the way that we are reviewing and accepting Master's applicants and will be publishing updated requirements and instructions by mid-August 2023.
Tuition and funding
The MS programs are unfunded with the exception of the MS with an emphasis in Math Education. We recommend that applicants interested in a funded program apply to the MS program at University of Minnesota Duluth.
GRE scores
We neither require nor use the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score as part of the admissions process.
How to apply
Apply online using the Graduate School admissions system to create and complete the application. All application materials must be submitted through the electronic system.
We do not directly offer application fee waivers.
Required application materials
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List of advanced Mathematics courses
List of advanced Mathematics courses
In the “Mathematics” section of the application, upload a table listing the advanced mathematics courses you have taken. Include any study you have completed outside of the classroom.
- These are courses beyond calculus, and introductory linear algebra.
- It is expected that applicants will be prepared to enter our 5&8000 level coursework. Typically this means year-long courses in both abstract algebra and rigorous analysis.
Table format
Course |
When taken |
Grade |
Textbook |
Author |
Topics/chapters covered |
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Transcripts
Transcripts
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.
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Proof of English language proficiency
Proof of English language proficiency
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 TOEFL scores must be sent electronically from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to the University of Minnesota. The ETS institution code for the Twin Cities and Rochester campuses is 6874.
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Statements
Statements
Upload in the “Materials” section of the application.
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 in this statement. Using the prompts is not required.
If you are applying for one of our emphasis areas, Industrial and Applied Mathematics or Math Education, specify how your goals for furthering your education align with the emphasis you are applying to.
Prompts
- 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.
- 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; 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?
Recommended Diversity Statement
The School of Mathematics is committed to furthering the diversity in the larger field of mathematics. It is recommended that you include a statement about your experiences with diversity in the field including;
- Have you done any outreach work in Mathematics?
- Have you done any justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work in Mathematics? OR Have you done any work in Mathematics for/with disadvantaged or underrepresented people/communities?
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Curriculum vitae (CV)
Curriculum vitae (CV)
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 these in the “Materials” section of the application.
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Three letters of recommendation
Three letters of recommendation
- 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 (gradappinfo@umn.edu) with instructions on uploading their letters. If recommenders have difficulty with the application system, they should reach out to the Graduate Program Coordinator (mathgrad@umn.edu) for assistance.
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Optional application materials
Optional application materials
Publications and articles may be uploaded under the “Other Materials” section of the application’s “Materials” tab.
Contact
Graduate Program Coordinator
mathgrad@umn.edu