What is the Graduate Assistantship program?
A graduate assistantship is an on-campus, part-time job for which the compensation is tuition and fees remission and a small stipend. The award is renewable annually for one year, terminating at the end of the Spring semester. There are teaching, research, and administrative/office jobs available throughout the University.
Who is eligible to work as a graduate assistant?
Students who have been accepted into a graduate degree program are eligible for assistantships. Assistantships are not available to non-matriculated students or students in certificate programs.
How do I apply for a Graduate Assistantship?
Apply for an assistantship by downloading the application here. Your complete application consists of the application form, your resume, and two letters of recommendation.
How do I get a Graduate Assistantship? How does it work?
Applications are reviewed by program directors, managers and or supervisors based on available positions. You will be contacted if they wish to interview you for an open position. There is no guarantee of an award at any time until you are appointed.
Will a Graduate Assistantship award affect my eligibility for financial aid?
If you are applying or have applied for financial aid, the assistantship award may have an impact on your financial aid eligibility. Regardless, it is strongly recommended that candidates seek out alternate financial aid, as Graduate Assistantship awards are very limited and not guaranteed.
Is there a deadline for applications?
There is no official deadline for applications, but most departments conduct hiring interviews in the Spring semester for the following Fall; there are very few mid-year appointments. However, Graduate Assistantships are filled on a first come, first served basis by candidates whose skills most closely match the needs of the University offices and departments.
Can I apply for an assistantship at the same time as I apply to a graduate degree program?
Yes, it is recommended that you apply for an assistantship while applying to a graduate degree program so that we may obtain copies of your recommendation letters that are part of your graduate application.
Is my Graduate Assistantship renewable?
Graduate Assistantships typically begin in the Fall and continue through the end of the Spring semester, at which point all assistantships are terminated. Any graduate assistant eligible for renewal will be assigned to the current position or to a new assignment, based upon availability.
Where can I learn more about graduate assistantships?
For more information, please consult the Graduate Assistant Handbook. Please click here for a PDF version of the GA Handbook.