The Department of Mathematical Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University invites applications to our graduate program in Mathematics. To be admitted to this program applicants must document competence equivalent to graduation from a recognized U.S. four-year college, university or institute of technology. Preference for the ACO Program can be indicated in the “Research Interest” portion of the application.

There is a $25 application fee. We regret that this cannot be waived.

All application materials should be received by December 20 to be assured of full consideration. Applications can be submitted after this date. But, we cannot guarantee that they will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee.

The following materials are required or optional (as indicated) as part of your application:

• • Curriculum Vitae
  • Statement of Purpose
    Your statement of purpose should describe your mathematical background and interests, previous research experiences, as well as directions and goals you would like to pursue for your graduate studies. Information about your background or activities that helps identify your potential to grow and achieve will also be considered. Typical statements of purpose are about one or two pages long.
  • Transcripts
    You need to submit transcripts from undergraduate and graduate programs you attended. Transcripts that are not in English should be submitted together with English translations. You may submit an unofficial transcript with your application; in this case official transcripts will be required later should you be accepted into the program.
  • Reference letters
    You must submit contact information for at least three academic references. Your references will be directly asked to submit their letters of recommendation through this website.
  • Subject GRE score (optional)
    We do not collect scores for the GRE General Test. The GRE Mathematics Subject Test is recommended but not required. Your application would receive full consideration without a score. You may submit an unofficial score with your application. If so, the official test report would be required later should you be accepted into the program.
  • Language Proficiency Test Scores (non-native English speakers)
    The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Duolingo English Test is required by the university before your application can be considered. While unofficial or self-reported test scores are accepted at the time of application and consideration of your candidacy, we will not extend an offer of admission without official test scores.
    
    This requirement is required to ensure your success at CMU as well as for university visa processing purposes should you be admitted. Further, all non-native English speakers enrolling in our program must also obtain the ITA Language Certification from CMU. This can be obtained either by achieving a sufficiently high TOEFL Speaking score (26/30) or by passing the ITA test once at CMU.
    
    The minimum acceptable scores for admission are cumulative TOEFL score 86/120, IELTS 6.5, or DET 110/160. However it is recommended that you have the cumulative TOEFL score 100/120, IELTS 7.5, or DET 120/160.
    
    Tests must be dated 2024 or later. If you are a non-native English speaker, you need to provide a score even if you attended a university in the U.S. If you receive an offer of admission, you will need to provide an official, unexpired score.