Master’s Admissions

Upload a list of advanced mathematics and quantitative coursework you have completed beyond calculus and introductory linear algebra. This information is in addition to the information on your transcripts and helps us understand the breadth and depth of your preparation. Depending on your background and intended area of study, relevant coursework may include mathematics, statistics, computer science, physics, engineering, economics, or other quantitative subjects.

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.

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 4.5 (23 for TOEFL taken prior to January 21, 2026).
• 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.

Upload in the “Materials” section of the application.

Required Personal Statement

Your personal statement should give us a sense of your interests, preparation, experiences, and goals as a prospective master's student in mathematics. The prompts below are intended to help you think about what to include. You do not need to address every question.

Why are you interested in graduate study in mathematics, and is there an emphasis you want to pursue? 

• What interests you about mathematics and its applications? 
• Why is a master's degree the right next step for you?
• What are your academic or professional goals? If you are applying to an emphasis area, describe how your goals align with that emphasis
• What interests you about the University of Minnesota?

Describe your preparation and experiences.

• Summarize your mathematical and quantitative preparation.
• Discuss relevant coursework, projects, research, internships, or professional experience.
• If applicable, describe programming, computational, modeling, data analysis, or other technical experience.
• If your preparation comes from a combination of disciplines, explain how these experiences have prepared you for the graduate program you are applying for.

Describe a challenge - academic or personal - that you have faced, and how you responded to it.

• What did you learn from this experience
• How does it shape your approach to learning, problem solving or working through difficult problems?

Diversity of Views (DOVE) Statement 

(Optional)

Diversity of views and experiences is fundamental to the University’s mission, and the University’s faculty, staff, and students share responsibility for the collective achievement of this goal. Please describe the distinctive perspectives or life experiences, such as successfully overcoming obstacles or hardships, that you would bring to your graduate program. Describe how these perspectives or life experiences could contribute to the education and enhanced perspective of fellow students at the University of Minnesota.

Statement Guidelines

• 1–2 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 learn and work through challenges.
• Your statement may also help us understand how your academic, computational, or professional experiences have shaped your interests and goals.
  

Upload your CV in the “Materials” section of the application

A CV is a document that highlights your academic, professional, and relevant technical experience. Please include, as applicable:

• Work and professional experience
• Education and relevant coursework
• Leadership experience
• Achievements and awards, scholarships or grants
• Research projects, publications and presentations
• Other relevant technical or quantitative experience, such as programming and modeling. 

Add three recommenders to the “Recommendations” section of the application. Choose individuals who can speak meaningfully about your preparation, abilities, and potential for graduate study. Recommenders may include:

• Instructors who have taught you in mathematics or other quantitatively oriented courses
• Research or project supervisors
• Professional supervisors or colleagues who can speak to your technical, analytical, or problem-solving abilities

Applicants coming from a traditional mathematics background may choose faculty members from advanced mathematics courses. Applicants with interdisciplinary or professional backgrounds may choose to reach out to individuals familiar with their quantitative or technical work, who can provide valuable perspectives.

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.

Additional materials may be submitted if they provide useful evidence of your preparation, interests, or experience. Examples include publications, research papers, substantial technical or programming projects, GitHub portfolios, or other relevant work. These materials may be uploaded under the “Writing Sample” section of the “Materials” tab of the application.