Mathematics Graduate School Question

[bilbo271]

I have a small dilemma about my applications to Mathematics Ph.D. programs. I would greatly appreciate any advice.

My dilemma relates to the Math Subject GRE. I took the test in early November, and was not feeling especially well so my scores suffered. I scored a 630 (48th percentile). A number of schools I am applying to require the subject score. However, there are other schools who either "Recommend" or "Do Not Require" the subject score.

My dilemma is this: I obviously have to send the subject score into schools that require it, but would sending in my score to schools that "Recommend" or "Do Not Require" the subject score help or hurt my application?

Here is the rest of my application, for reference:

GRE General Scores: 800Q 710V 4.5AW

Research Experience: 2 Semester research project in linear algebra at my school, presented at a number of conferences (MathFest, JMM, etc). REU at an institution that is not my home institution (project dealt with modeling traffic flow).

Letters of Recommendation: One from each of my research supervisors, and one from a teacher who taught me 2 semesters of abstract algebra (I got an A in both semesters).

Coursework:

Physics - Kinematics (B)
Physics - E & M (A-)
Intro to Computer Science (A)
BC Calculus (5)
Multivariable Calc (B)
Transition to Abstract Math (A)
Linear Algebra (A)
Differential Equations (A)
Abstract Algebra I (A)
Numerical Analysis (A)
Abstract Algebra II - Galois Theory (A)
Real Analysis (A)
Probabilty (Calc-Based) - (A)
Complex Analysis - Spring 2009
Statistics - Spring 2009
Introduction to Topology - Spring 2009

This works out to around a 3.8 GPA for my major courses (my grades in my non-major courses are about the same).

I attend a fairly small, liberal arts school (about 3000 undergrads) that has a fairly strong academic reputation.

Again, I would greatly appreciate any advice:

For reference, the schools I am planning on applying to are:

Texas, Northwestern, Georgia, Clemson, NC State, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Duke

 

[R.Mesri]

.In regards to your dilemma, I think you should send your Math Subject GRE scores to all of the schools that you are applying to, regardless of whether they require or recommend it. Your scores show that you have a solid foundation in mathematics, and that could be beneficial for your application. Additionally, it is better to provide too much information than not enough. By sending in your scores, you are showing the admissions committee that you are serious about your application and that you have nothing to hide. Good luck with your applications!

 

[Mene]

As a fellow mathematician, I understand your dilemma about the Math Subject GRE scores. It can be a difficult decision to make whether to send in your scores to schools that only "recommend" or "do not require" them. My advice would be to consider the rest of your application and how strong it is overall. If your grades, research experience, and letters of recommendation are all strong, then sending in your subject scores may not make a significant difference. However, if you feel that your subject scores do not accurately reflect your abilities in mathematics, then it may be better to not send them in and instead focus on highlighting your strengths in other areas of your application. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which option you feel will benefit your application the most. Best of luck in your graduate school applications!