MS in Mathematics & Statistics

A Bachelor’s degree

Applicants are required to upload to the application system unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.

Include as many of the three letters as possible from instructors in mathematics and statistics courses. Letters from non-mathematical sciences instructors, work supervisors, and internship supervisors carry significantly less weight. Letters should directly address mathematical ability and should include comparisons. Examples of comparisons are percentage rank in courses (such as top 10%) and rank in graduating class (such as top quartile in the cohort).

A detailed Curriculum Vitae is very helpful in conveying a picture of the prospective student. Include undergraduate and graduate majors, US equivalent 4.0-based grade point averages, research and internship experiences, relevant work experiences, and references to research papers and projects. The conversion of grades to a 4.0-based grade point average needs to be provided and displayed in a prominent location on the resume.

The best Statements of Purpose are those which demonstrate that the applicant has researched the Georgetown Math/Stat program, is familiar with its goals and approaches, and understands how it can enable his or her career. Rambling prose conveying ideas such as the beauty and challenge of mathematics will be read and understood but is not ultimately very helpful. It is better to provide reasons for wanting to be part of the program and articulate ways that the degree will be a professional benefit. It is best to avoid the extremes of terseness and verbosity – neither too short nor (especially) too long. The Statement should directly address any potential weaknesses in the application, such as occasional low grades that may have been due to illness or family emergency, as well as any other unusual and relevant aspects of the background of the applicant.