Applying to Graduate School

Start planning early

Graduate school applications consist of some basic information, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and.a resume, Some programs may also ask to interview you, or even invite you to campus to visit. There are a few things to think about before you start your applications.

Identify the graduate programs you want to apply to as early as possible. Our guide to choosing a graduate school path has advice to help you decide on a path and how to choose the programs that are the best fit for you.

Most prospective graduate students apply to more than one program, and some apply to 10 or more. Don't hesitate to apply for some programs that you consider a long shot—you never know how your application might stand out and how you stack up against the other applicants. Also apply to programs where you're more likely to get in, and some in between. Make a list of all programs you'll apply to, and their respective requirements and deadlines so you are sure to submit all information on time.

Take your GREs during your junior year, so that if you aren't satisfied with your scores, you have time to take them again.

If you are eligible, apply to the National Science Foundation's Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP). Applications are generally due in the fall for support the following year. Apply for the GRFP during your last year of college, even if you aren't sure yet where you will apply or where you will go. If you do not succeed then, you can apply again during your first year of graduate school. Students in research-based master's programs can also apply.

Deadlines for other fellowships may also be due earlier than your graduate school applications.

You can call or email the graduate program director to ask questions if there is anything more you need to know. This can also work to your advantage because it helps them get to know you a bit, which can help you stand out from the crowd.

All documents you submit should be presented professionally, with clear formatting that is easy to read and understand. Use complete sentences (except possibly on your resume)—do not use abbreviations common on social media.

Application basics

The application will ask for some general information about you including

• General information about you, like your name and address
• Official transcripts
• An application fee. If you have financial difficulties, some programs offer fee waivers.
• GRE scores if required. There is a fee for each set of scores you send, but you can apply for a fee reduction.

Statement of purpose

Your statement of purpose is a very important part of your application. This is where you can really stand out from other applicants and make yourself shine. Start writing your statement early to give you plenty of time to get feedback and revise the statement—possibly several times.

Talk about research you've done, talks and presentations, conferences you've attended, teaching experience, writing (publications, thesis), and any other relevant experiences you've had. What are your goals and interests? What are your skills outside of mathematics, such as motivation, work ethic, ability to collaborate, or leadership skills? Give examples of how you have developed and used these skills. You don't need to have all or even most of these, but if you do, make sure to describe them.

• Pay careful attention to questions each program asks, and make sure you address them all.
• Don't spend a lot of effort describing grades and other details they can see elsewhere. Use the statement as an opportunity to focus on what makes you stand out.
• Communicate your mathematical background, either in general or in a particular specialty. If you have a direction or a passion, describe it. Show your enthusiasm for what interests you.
• Write a general statement to start, and then personalize it for each program you apply to. The admissions committee will like to see that you have learned about their program and thought about how it is a fit for you.
• Ask for feedback from a variety of people, such as professors, undergraduate and graduate students, and people outside of mathematics who you think are particularly good writers. Revise it based on their feedback, and consider asking them to read it again.
• Keep to page limits.

There is more advice about how writing your statement at The Math Alliance.

Letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation give the admissions committee a more objective view of the type of student you are.