At a glance
60 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 5-6 yearsTypical Program Duration
- Ph.D. onlyDegree Offered
- Broad faculty interestsResearch Strengths
- Interdisciplinary linksCollaborative Programs
- Dissertation-focusedKey Requirement
- Teaching preparationSkill Development
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Mathematics at Cornell University is designed for students who aim to become professional mathematicians. The program typically takes five to six years to complete, and students are admitted directly to the Ph.D. program, not for a Master of Science (M.S.) degree. The faculty's broad range of research interests, spanning areas like algebra, analysis, geometry, number theory, and topology, makes the program particularly attractive. Cornell also maintains strong collaborative ties with graduate programs in applied mathematics, computer science, operations research, and statistics and data science. The curriculum emphasizes creating and communicating mathematics, culminating in a dissertation that represents an original and substantial contribution to the field. Students are encouraged to explore various mathematical areas before selecting a research focus and advisor. The program also includes a mandatory teaching assistant training component, preparing students for careers in academia, business, and government.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires students to complete core courses in fundamental mathematical subjects. This is followed by advanced courses and seminars that allow students to delve deeper into specific areas and develop their research skills. The ultimate goal is the completion of a dissertation that makes an original contribution to mathematics.
- Years 1-2 (typical)
- Required Core Courses
- Advanced Courses and Seminars
- Years 3-6 (typical)
- Dissertation Research
- Journal Article Preparation
- Conference Presentations
Careers
The Ph.D. program prepares graduates for diverse career paths as professional mathematicians in various sectors.
- Academia (Professor, Researcher)
- Business (Analyst, Data Scientist)
- Government (Researcher, Analyst)
Frequently asked questions
- How long does the Mathematics Ph.D. program typically take to complete?
- The Ph.D. program in Mathematics at Cornell University typically takes five to six years to complete. This timeframe includes coursework, research, and dissertation writing.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as professional mathematicians in academia, business, and government. Common roles include professors, researchers, analysts, and data scientists.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must meet the Graduate School's English language proficiency requirements. Accepted tests include TOEFL with a minimum score of 100 (prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0-5.5 (Jan 2026 onwards), IELTS with a minimum of 7.5, or Duolingo with a minimum of 130.
- What is the application deadline for the Mathematics Ph.D. program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15. Supplemental materials are typically due mid-November, and the Common Application opens in August.
- Are there specific subject tests required for admission?
- Yes, the GRE Subject Test in Mathematics is required for admission, with a minimum score of 600. You must also ensure your official scores are sent to Cornell.
- Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
- Tuition and fees are set by the Graduate School. Please refer to the Graduate School's official website for the most current tuition rates.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeDemonstrated mastery of material required for an undergraduate major in mathematics. Applicants with diverse mathematical backgrounds are welcome.
TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026)minimum 100
TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards)minimum 5.0, recommended 5.5
IELTSminimum 7.5
Duolingominimum 130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiencyminimum 191
Applicants are required to submit three letters of recommendation (up to five are accepted). The GRE Subject Test in Mathematics is also required with a minimum score of 600. All Graduate School requirements, including English language proficiency, must be met.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current information.
LivingNot specified.
Tuition and fees are set by the Graduate School and can be found on their official website.
How to apply
1. Create an Account and Start ApplicationBegin by completing the Common Application, which opens in August. You will also need to complete the Cornell Writing Supplement.
2. Submit Application Fee or WaiverPay the $85 application fee or submit a fee waiver request by the deadline.
3. Provide Letters of RecommendationArrange for three to five letters of recommendation from academic recommenders to be submitted.
4. Submit GRE Subject Test ScoresEnsure your GRE Subject Test scores (minimum 600) are sent to Cornell.
5. Meet English Language Proficiency RequirementsSubmit official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) by the deadline. Self-reported scores are accepted initially.
6. Submit Financial Aid Application (if applicable)If you require financial aid, complete and submit the CSS Profile by the specified deadline. International applicants must apply for aid at the time of their admission application.
7. Submit Supplemental MaterialsEnsure all other required supplemental materials are submitted by the stated deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Mathematics Ph.D. program typically take to complete?
+
The Ph.D. program in Mathematics at Cornell University typically takes five to six years to complete. This timeframe includes coursework, research, and dissertation writing.
What are the career prospects for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as professional mathematicians in academia, business, and government. Common roles include professors, researchers, analysts, and data scientists.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must meet the Graduate School's English language proficiency requirements. Accepted tests include TOEFL with a minimum score of 100 (prior to Jan 2026) or 5.0-5.5 (Jan 2026 onwards), IELTS with a minimum of 7.5, or Duolingo with a minimum of 130.
What is the application deadline for the Mathematics Ph.D. program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 15. Supplemental materials are typically due mid-November, and the Common Application opens in August.
Are there specific subject tests required for admission?
+
Yes, the GRE Subject Test in Mathematics is required for admission, with a minimum score of 600. You must also ensure your official scores are sent to Cornell.
Where can I find information about tuition and fees?
+
Tuition and fees are set by the Graduate School. Please refer to the Graduate School's official website for the most current tuition rates.