Assistantships/Work Study
There are a number of ways graduate students can earn money to pay for college. In addition to finding a job, graduate students can take advantage of Federal Work-Study , teaching assistantships (TA) and research assistant opportunities (RA).
Federal Work Study
The Federal Work-Study Program offers part-time employment for eligible students demonstrating financial need. Federal Work-Study jobs may be on campus or off campus, and are guaranteed to pay at least the current federal minimum wage. You may be eligible to earn more, however, total earnings are limited to the amount awarded through the Office of Financial Aid.
To be considered for Federal Work-Study, complete the FAFSA. Funding for work-study positions is limited and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Research Assistant (RA)
RA positions offer graduate students an opportunity to earn money while contributing to his or her field of expertise. The premise is simple-RAs assist faculty members on research projects, and get paid for it. Usually funded through research grants, RA positions are based on the student's expertise and faculty need. These positions may include funds to pay for tuition, as well as a stipend to cover living expenses. RA positions offer academic benefits, too, particularly if the research complements your own graduate research.
To be a research assistant, ask your professors directly about opportunities in their departments or your school's Graduate Financial Aid department.
Teaching Assistantships (TA)
Similar to an RA, a TA gives you the chance to earn money in exchange for supporting a faculty member. In this case, though, the work will be focused on teaching-leading class discussions, grading tests and papers, or providing classroom instruction in the professor's absence.
To be considered for a TA, ask your professors directly about opportunities in their departments or your school's Graduate Financial Aid department.
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