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  • Mathematics Comprehensive Exam FAQ

When are the exams given?

The Exams will be given in two stages: The "Choose 2" exam is on the Friday of Week 12 in the semester, and the "Core" exam is on the Friday of the last week of classes.  Information will appear on the department web site around the 3rd week of the semester regarding exact days/times. Students need to fill out a Special Registration Form to sign up for Math 692. 

How is the exam graded? What is passing?

For the "Choose 2" Exam, there are three problems from each of two subject areas for a total of six problems. Students select three questions to answer during the 2-hour exam period, with at least one question from each subject area. The Graduate Committee looks at the exam and decides whether or not you show a reasonable amount of understanding of the subject. To help the decision, we initially grade each problem on a scale of 0-20, resulting in a maximum score of 60 points. 

For the "Core" Exam, there are three problems from each of the three core subject areas (Math 620, Math 630, and Math 670).  Students select one question from each area, and a fourth question to answer during the 2-hour-30-minute exam period.   Each problem is graded on a scale of 0-20 resulting in a maximum score of 80 points. 

A passing score is at least 84 out of a possible 140 points (60%).  Anyone who scores near the borderline will be reviewed by multiple graders to ensure fairness. 

Can the exams be taken again?

Yes, students may retake the Math Comprehensive Exams.  A student in need of retaking the exam should meet with the Graduate Coordinator to work out a plan for preparing for the exam.  If a third attempt is required, the Graduate Committee may require that the student retake one or more courses with grades of B or better before taking the Exam again. Eventually, the Committee may choose not to permit an additional attempt due to repeatedly inadequate results.

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