Funding Graduate Studies

The types of financial support for graduate students usually include fellowships, research assistantships, or teaching assistantships.  Expectations and eligibility requirements vary significantly, so pay close attention to these details as you look into these possibilities at each institution. Some graduate programs strongly encourage their students to seek external or internal (within your institution) funding. This will involve more time and effort on your part, but receiving one of these awards will be an honor that you can highlight in your CV.

Here are some resources and suggestions that may help as you consider funding your time in graduate school. 

• Start looking early at funding sources and opportunities. For example, these websites from Stanford, UCLA, and Columbia provide lists and search engines. You’ll also want to look specifically at each institution to which you’re considering applying. Additionally, federal agencies, private foundations, corporations, and professional organizations may also offer fellowships for graduate study.
• Financial support for master’s programs is usually limited compared to doctoral programs.  
• Note that some funding sources have eligibility requirements related to citizenship or residency.

Because funding situations vary significantly at each institution and graduate program, search closely and keep track of these details. As was recommended earlier, creating a spreadsheet with all the details for each program and funding source is essential. Some sample spreadsheets are offered here and here.