I am an undergraduate engineering student in Azerbaijan, and my major is process automation; however, I intend to change it and study mathematics in one of the grad schools in the US. I received only A's in mathematics classes, which are Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Differential Equations, and Linear Algebra. Currently, I have been self-studying more advanced mathematics branches such as Real Analysis and Abstract Algebra, also have written a research paper on Differential Equations. Nevertheless, I have mediocre and low grades in the engineering classes such as "Electrical Materials and Devices", "Electrical Machines", "Process Control", etc. My current GPA is approximately 3.55, and I am planning to take GRE and GRE mathematics subject tests. Does my plan seem plausible? Am I eligible to study in PhD program for mathematics under such circumstances?
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2Your main problem is not GPA but lack of graded coursework in some standard upper division undergraduate classes. As it stands, you will not be competitive in the top 50 graduate programs in math in the US, unless you have done something spectacular in your differential equations paper. – Moishe Kohan May 09 '23 at 22:15
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Thanks for your answer. Is GRE math subject test effective considering the gap in my coursework? I will try to write a few more papers on Abstract Algebra though. – Fazil Safarov May 09 '23 at 22:55
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Could be but you would be competing with other international applicants who would have stellar GRE subject.... – Moishe Kohan May 09 '23 at 23:10
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What do you mean "have written a research paper on Differential Equations"? Is this a research paper that got published in a peer-reviewed journal? Or? – cag51 May 09 '23 at 23:38
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Yes, do take the GRE mathematics subject test. You will probably also need to show English abilities, say TOEFL exam. – GEdgar May 09 '23 at 23:51
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Yes, I have taken IELTS and got 8.0 out of 9.0 overall – Fazil Safarov May 10 '23 at 00:20
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The paper is published on the journal of an international conference. – Fazil Safarov May 10 '23 at 00:20
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You can be considered, but note that doctoral admissions in US is broad based with letters of recommendation especially important. You are also missing some essential advanced courses that US undergrads usually take: Abstract Algebra and Topology for example. There are other common ones like Finite Math and Symbolic Logic.
There are some places that will let you make this up. But...
See this answer to our canonical question: How does the admissions process work for Ph.D. programs in Country X?

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