FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ADMISSIONS

Question:

What can I do to increase my chances of getting into the graduate program in mathematics at Princeton?

Answer:

A solid background in undergraduate mathematics is expected of applicants to Princeton; more important than a specific palette of courses is testimony from your recommenders that you have the potential and preparation to be a research mathematician. The most important thing you can do is to develop a close mathematical relationship with a faculty member at your university who can speak to us knowledgeably about your qualifications and who can advise you correctly about what you need to do to make yourself a good candidate for Princeton. Some things that you may wish to consider doing include: taking some graduate courses, undertaking a senior research project or thesis, and participating in a REU or other summer math research program.

Question:

What are the minimal scores required for the general and subject GREs as well as the TOEFL (or IELTS)?

Answer:

We do not have a minimal score requirement for either; however, we do recognize and encourage you to achieve the highest scores possible. We believe that while these exam scores are very important, they are only one part of the whole application being considered.

Question:

I have not taken the GRE subject test (for whatever reason). Can I still apply without it?

Answer:

Technically, no, considering that both the GRE general and subject test scores are required parts of the application. You may submit your application without the GRE subject score; but, again, any potential offer made is contingent up receiving and approving this score. Your application will be put "on hold", and there is no guarantee that the admissions committee will still consider you for admission.

Question:

Is it acceptable for supporting documents, ie. transcripts and GRE test scores, to arrive after the application deadline?

Answer:

Every effort must be made to meet the posted application deadline; however, it is common for transcripts and GRE test scores to arrive after the deadline. As long as all application materials are available to the Department admissions committee at the time they're making their final decision, minor delays are not a real issue. Extremely long delays, however, will force an application into "hold" status; and, there is no guarantee that the committee will give their full time and consideration to those files in this status.

Question:

How do I know if I need to take the TOEFL (or IELTS)?

Answer:

Generally, if your native language is not English and you did not get your degree from a U.S. university or college then you must submit either TOEFL or IELTS test scores to support your application. Waivers may be requested but must be approved by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. This request is made on your online application.

Question:

My application and letters have been submitted online. Do I still need to submit paper copies?

Answer:

No. The Department will review all application materials online via CollegeNet.

Question:

May I submit more than three (3) letters of recommendation, and how should additional recommenders send in their letters?

Answer:

Yes; however, there is no guarantee that additional letters will be read by the admissions committee. Only three (3) letters can be uploaded into CollegeNet; therefore, any additional letters must be scanned and emailed directly to Graduate Admissions at gradapp@princeton.edu to be uploaded into your application file.


Important: All general admissions related questions should be directed to Graduate Admissions at gsadmit@princeton.edu. Also, all applicant support documentation must be uploaded into CollegeNet (not sent to the Department!). If it is not, the processing of your application may be delayed.

For more information, please go to Graduate Admissions.

Jill LeClair
Graduate Administrator
leclair@princeton.edu