This examination consists of two parts: a written examination, and an oral examination as described in §8.4.2.3. The purpose of the examination is to determine the candidate's grasp of the major themes in mathematics and their interrelationships, with special emphasis on those topics, which illuminate parts of the standard undergraduate curriculum in mathematics. Attention will also be given to the area chosen for the candidate's dissertation. The Doctoral Committee will meet with the student well before the examination to define coverage. Prior to the examination, the Doctoral Committee will compose the principal questions to be asked. The candidate is expected to take the Preliminary Examination within one year of passing the Qualifying Examination.