2021 Fall Statistics PhD Application Evaluation

[failedphysicist]

Hi everyone, 

I'm a college graduate planning on applying to statistics PhD programs next winter. I'm interested in mathematical statistics or probability. Basically, I want to do something as close as possible to math, without having to apply to a math PhD program because I know I probably wouldn't get in. 

Undergrad institution: Think Harvard/Princeton/Stanford/MIT

Major: Physics

GPA: 3.6/4.0 

Relevant courses: 

Math: 

• Real Analysis (Rudin): A-
• Linear Algebra: B
• Complex analysis: B+
• Functional/complex analysis (it was a weird course lol) : A
• Abstract Algebra (mostly group theory): A
• Probability: B+

Physics: 

• Advanced classical mechanics: A
• Quantum mechanics 1 and 2: A, A
• Advanced electrodynamics: A+
• Statistical mechanics: A
• Experimental physics: A

Computer science / electrical engineering:

• Algorithms and data structures: A
• Signals and systems: A-

GRE general: 170, 170, 5. 

GRE math: yet to take

Research experience: 

• Theoretical physics, 1 first-author publication. 

LOR: 

• Could prob get a decent one from the professor i worked with for my publication. 
• No idea what I'll do for the other two. 

As you can see, I didn't take many math classes, nor did I do well in them for the most part. Do I have any chance of getting into a stats PhD program? If so, what schools should I aim for? Thank you!

Edited February 20, 2020 by failedphysicist
mispelling

[HoWei]

I suggest that you can contact some professors whose research interests are fit to yours and ask them if you are qualified. You can start with top50 schools in Stat major. That would cost your some time though. 

Please point out any non-native English usage in my reply. Thank you.

Edited February 21, 2020 by HoWei
supplement

[bayessays]

I do not recommend emailing professors.

Your math grades aren't that bad coming from a good school. If your letters are decent, I imagine people will be impressed by your test scores and physics major with As from a top school.  This isn't going to get you into Stanford, but I could see some top 20 programs accepting you. Go to US News rankings and start looking at programs in the 20-55 range which is more of a "match" range with lots of good programs.