What Is an Assistantship?
An assistantship is a funded position for a graduate student, in which the student works part-time for the university, as a teaching assistant, research assistant or administrative or program assistant, and receives financial support in exchange. In the US it is the most common form of funding for PhD students and is also available to some master's students. The support typically includes a stipend and often a tuition waiver.
Types
- Teaching assistantship (TA): leading discussion sections, grading, holding office hours or assisting in labs.
- Research assistantship (RA): working on a professor's research project, funded by grants, often related to the student's own thesis or dissertation.
- Graduate assistantship (GA): administrative or program support in offices such as admissions, libraries, student affairs or residence life.
- Hybrid appointments that combine teaching and research duties.
What is typically included
- A stipend, paid monthly or per term.
- A tuition waiver, covering all or part of tuition.
- Health insurance, at some institutions.
- Duties: often 10 to 20 hours a week, set in the offer or appointment letter.
Amounts and benefits vary widely by institution, field and funding source.
Benefits and challenges
Assistantships fund study and provide experience in teaching and research, and help build relationships with faculty. Challenges include balancing duties with coursework and research, stipends that may be low relative to living costs and, for some, limited job protections. Graduate workers at many institutions have organized unions to negotiate pay and conditions.
How to get one
Many programs consider applicants for assistantships automatically when they apply, and others require a separate form. Applicants can also approach professors who have grants, and departments or offices that hire assistants. Strong academic records, relevant experience, clear statements and good references help.
What to ask in an offer
- Length of funding and whether it is guaranteed.
- Hours and duties.
- Coverage of tuition, fees and insurance.
- Stipend amount and pay schedule.
- Renewal criteria.
- Other work rules, such as restrictions on outside jobs.
Related terms
See teaching assistant, research assistant, stipend, tuition waiver and fellowship.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours does an assistantship require?
Commonly about 10 to 20 hours per week, depending on the institution and appointment. The offer letter states the expected hours and duties.
Does an assistantship cover tuition?
Often yes, in whole or in part, plus a stipend, though not always. Check whether fees and health insurance are included.
How do I apply for an assistantship?
Usually with your graduate application, or by contacting the department, professors with research funding or administrative offices that hire graduate assistants.