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Graduate applications instructions

Graduate applications instructions

We accept applications from prospective graduate students from national and international undergraduate and master's programs, with degrees mostly (but not exclusively) in mathematical sciences.

Minimum academic requirements

A four-year baccalaureate degree with a cumulative B average GPA on the most recent baccalaureate or any subsequent graduate degree, plus all academic work completed after the most recent graduation.

Deadlines and dates

We only accept students for Fall term. Applications for Fall 2025 open mid-September 2024 and the deadline for first consideration is December 15, 2024. The deadline for full consideration is January 5, 2025. To be considered for University-wide fellowships and/or for an assistantship, you are encouraged to have all requested application materials sent by this date.

Review of complete applications begins in January. Only complete applications are evaluated.

First assistantship offers can be made as early as February, and fellowship offers can be made as early as January.

We abide by the Council of Graduate Schools resolution regarding the April 15th commitment deadline for offers of financial support.

Application review and assistantship offers continue until all Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) positions are filled. Opportunities do sometimes arise after the normal period.

Applying

The following documents are required to complete your application:

1. Online application

Please completely fill out the Graduate School's online application. Answers to questions on funding requested, academic tracks, and potential mentors are particularly helpful and may be requested if the application does not list these responses.


2. Transcripts of all graded undergraduate and graduate academic work

Official transcripts are preferred; but during the application process, unofficial or official transcripts are accepted. See this FAQ response for specific transcript requirements. As noted in the online application system, all uploaded documents are unofficial.


3. Statement of purpose

In your statement of purpose, explain why you want to study mathematics at OSU and what fields of mathematics interest you. This can be submitted in the provided text box or uploaded as a separate document.


4. CV or resume

Upload this in the Document Upload section of the online application.


5. A list of upper-division mathematics courses taken

This should include brief course descriptions and textbooks used for all upper-division (junior, senior, or graduate) classes.


6. Three letters of recommendation

Letters should be solicited from individuals who have firsthand knowledge of your mathematical ability and background. The online application system automatically sends an emailed request for recommendation. Mailed recommendations should be sent only in the event that a recommender does not have access to email. Mailed letters should be accompanied with the following signed form.


7. GRE scores (optional)

Applicants may submit GRE general and subject exam scores. GRE test scores are reported directly to the university (institution code 004586, use department code 0000) if you list us as a recipient with the ETS. Scores should be sent so that they will arrive before the January 1st deadline. We can accept photocopies or PDF copies of GRE reports; but if there is any concern about score validity, we reserve the right to request official scores.


8. International Students only

Provide to the Graduate School a score report on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Note: The Graduate School's English proficiency requirements for admission are listed here: English proficiency requirements, with particular requirements concerning GTAs.

After you apply

If you have questions on any part of the application process, see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Also feel free to email us at gradinfo@math.oregonstate.edu, or contact us by phone at (541) 737-5133.