grant money for phd students

Find Education Scholarships for PhD Students

Every little bit helps, get a head start funding your doctoral degree using the U.S. News scholarship database. Apply for money now.

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Elevar Scholars Program

California State University, Fullerton

What You'll Need

• Application Form
• Recommendation
• Demonstrated Financial Need
• Merit-based Aid

Description

Funded by the CSU and Giles T. Brown Endowment for Graduate Studies through the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation, this program seeks to increase the diversity of students completing graduate degree programs, encourage further study in doctoral programs and promote consideration of university faculty careers. If provides fellowships to economically disadvantaged CSUF students who have overcome educational disadvantages or hardships. The fellowships are intended to minimize students’ debt burden, allowing them to complete their program more quickly and commence doctoral study.

Fletcher Jones Fellowship

University of California, Irvine

• Need-based Aid

The Fletcher Jones Fellowship is a highly prestigious award, made available through funding from the Fletcher Jones Foundation. It is competitively awarded to an outstanding doctoral student who has advanced to candidacy and demonstrates financial need. The award of a one-year fellowship of approximately $22,290, to be used as a stipend, is intended to assist with doctoral degree completion.

Chancellor's Club Fellowship

Chancellor’s Club Fellowships recognize our most academically superior doctoral and MFA students — those who exhibit outstanding promise as scholars, researchers, and public leaders. Nominated students must be first-generation college students, with neither parent having received a four-year degree. Nominations are made by Associate Deans for scholars in their respective schools.

Miguel Velez Scholarship

The Miguel Velez Scholarship provides financial support to graduate students who demonstrate outstanding past academic achievement as well as future promise, have financial need, and are citizens and residents of a Latin American country. Preference is given to citizens of Colombia.

James Harvey Scholar

The James Harvey Scholar award provides financial support to graduate students who demonstrate outstanding past academic achievement as well as future promise, have financial need, and are completing a publishable thesis or dissertation on homosexuality or the life or works of James Harvey.

Otto W. Shaler Scholarship

The Otto W. Shaler Scholarship provides financial support to international graduate students who have financial need, and who demonstrate outstanding past academic achievement as well as future promise. Each school may submit no more than two applications for this award.

Brython Davis Fellowship

Overview: The Brython Davis Fellowship provides financial support to students who demonstrate outstanding past academic achievement as well as future promise, have financial need, are U.S. citizens, and are the child of a service member or veteran of the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps.

La Verne Noyes Fellowship

The La Verne Noyes Fellowship provides financial support to graduate students who demonstrate outstanding past academic achievement as well as future promise, have financial need, are U.S. citizens, and are descendants of World War I U.S. Army or Navy veterans.

Barbara Bell Blake Nursing Scholarship

Purdue University, Northwest

Need Based: Please note: This specialty scholarship requires a separate application. Even if you've already applied for a PNW admissions scholarship, you need to submit a separate application to be eligible.

Intel SWE Scholarship (Graduate)

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

SWE Scholarships support those who identify as a female/woman and are pursuing an ABET-accredited bachelor or graduate student program in preparation for careers in engineering, engineering technology and computer science in the United States. US Citizenship required. Minimum GPA: 3.0. Class: Graduate (Masters, Doctoral) Major: CprE, CS, EE.

PhD Student Funding Overview

At Yale, you can earn your doctorate at our expense. 

Our funding packages for Yale PhD students are among the most generous in the world. Every PhD student receives a fellowship for the full cost of tuition, a stipend for living expenses, and paid health coverage, though the details of your funding package will differ depending on your academic program. On average, doctoral students receive more than $500,000 in tuition fellowships, stipends, and health premium benefits over the course of their enrollment. Full PhD funding normally extends for a minimum of five years, unless your doctoral program is of shorter duration, e.g., Investigative Medicine, Law, Nursing, and Public Health. 

The main categories of funding available to PhD students are detailed below. Our Programs & Policies handbook contains additional information about funding and fellowship opportunities available at the Graduate School, along with applicable policies. 

If you have questions about your funding, you can ask your program registrar or DGS, Graduate Financial Aid, or Associate Dean Robert Harper-Mangels.

Types of Funding for PhD Students

University Fellowships (UFs) are provided through the Graduate School and do not require teaching in Yale's Teaching Fellow Program. UFs are often used during the initial year(s) of your doctoral program to cover your stipend and tuition, when you are engaged in coursework and identifying an adviser.

For official policies governing University Fellowships, including information on deferring a UF, please see our Programs & Policies Bulletin .

In subsequent years and in most programs, your stipend will be funded by a teaching fellowship or a research assistantship.

Teaching Fellowships (TFs) are contingent on teaching Yale's Teaching Fellow Program (TFP). While you are on a TF, a portion of your stipend is compensation for teaching. The rest of your stipend will come from other sources, depending on your department or program. See the Teaching Fellow Funding page for more information.

The teaching portion of your stipend is subject to federal tax withholding, so you will notice a difference in your paycheck in teaching versus non-teaching semesters.

In lieu of teaching in the Teaching Fellow Program, PhD students in the humanities and social sciences may choose to undertake one of the available Professional Development Opportunities . These positions allow you to gain professional experience at a library, museum, or other office on campus relevant to your studies. 

If you are in the natural sciences, your funding will likely come from training grants and faculty research grants at some point during your enrollment. In most programs, you may only join a research group that has active grant funding. Please consult with your DGS, if you have questions about this aspect of your funding package.

We strongly encourage you to compete for external fellowships. Winning an external award in a national competition, whether sponsored by a public or private agency, is a significant honor. External fellowships may be subject to our Combined Award policy. Please be sure to review our External Fellowships & Awards page to understand how external awards interact with university funding.

An external fellowship may also offer you added flexibility in your program. 

• If you are a student in the natural sciences, an external fellowship may allow you to pursue a project or idea that is otherwise not eligible for financial support through your adviser’s research funding. 
• If you are a student in the humanities or social sciences, an external fellowship might allow you to defer a University Fellowship (UF) to a subsequent term or year. 

You can search for external fellowships through the Yale Student Grants Database , other university search engines (e.g., UCLA ), and commercial sites .

You must notify the Graduate School of any external awards you receive. 

• Send a copy of your award letter to the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] .
• If your award is subject to the Combined Award policy, then you will receive a combined award letter via email when your award has been processed, outlining your updated funding package. 

For any questions and concerns regarding your combined award letter, please contact the Graduate School Financial Aid Office via email at [email protected]. Associate Dean Robert Harper-Mangels can also advise regarding our Combined Award policy.

Additional GSAS Financial Support

Phd stipends.

An overview of information relevant to the PhD stipend.

Health Award

The Graduate School provides Yale Health Basic Coverage at no cost to all students (Master's and PhD) who are enrolled at least half-time in degree-seeking programs. In addition, all PhD students registered at least half-time receive a Health Fellowship Award that covers the cost of Yale Health Hospitalization/Specialty Care Coverage.

Featured Resource

Family Support Subsidy for Parenting PhD Students

PhD students who are registered full-time in any year of study are eligible for the family support subsidy to assist with child-related expenses.

Dean's Emergency Fund

The Dean’s Emergency Fund enables terminal master’s and PhD students in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences to continue making academic progress despite unanticipated, extreme financial hardships that cannot be resolved through fellowships, loans, or personal resources. The maximum award for eligible requests is $2,000.

Conference Travel Fellowship (CTF)

https://gsa.yale.edu/ctf

By partnering with the MacMillan Center and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, graduate students with representatives in the Graduate Student Assembly are eligible for annual conference travel funding of up to $800.

PhD Student Travel Health Fellowship

If you are a PhD student traveling for dissertation research, the Graduate School provides a Travel Health Fellowship to cover the cost of required immunizations and prescription drugs at Yale Health.

Graduate Financial Aid Office

Office Address

• [email protected]
• 203-432-2739
• 246 Church Street, 2nd Floor

• Home > College Grants > By Degree Level > Doctoral

Grants for Doctoral Students

Reach a higher level with free money for school.

Grants and scholarships support college students on their way to undergraduate degrees, but there are also significant financial hurdles for those who continue into graduate school programs.  Doctoral students especially, face a long-haul of tuition and expenses associated with research and dissertations.  Thankfully, a large number of organizations are vested in supporting student research efforts that benefit them.

Qualified students conduct original research that requires dedication and long hours.  As a result, paid work is often impossible for graduate students.  To bridge the financial gap for doctoral students, a wide cross-section of funding sources put-forth fellowships and grants that keep PhD candidates moving forward.

Some doctoral student aid is driven by altruistic philanthropic philosophies, but when the benefactors have some skin in the game, giving is particularly generous.  Professional associations, alumni organizations, charitable foundations, corporations and a host of other interested parties are in the business of disbursing doctoral grants.

Student aid initiatives for graduate students can be general in their eligibility requirements, or specifically targeted to individual student groups.  Diversity grants and scholarships, for example, create educational access for certain groups.  Minorities, women and students studying narrowly defined subject-matter are awarded graduate school grants based on unique individual characteristics and pursuits.

On your way to finding graduate school financial aid, consider these grants and the entities that fund them:

Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities offer grants for doctoral students. Competition to win a doctoral grant from a university can be stiff; most schools only accept a limited number of PhD candidates per year.

Grant eligibility requirements are as diverse as the graduate students who apply, so seek offers that are appropriate to your areas of research. Some awards come with limitations on how your grant money can be used.  If your grant is a tuition-only affair, you might need alternative financing to pay for expenses that go beyond the cost of tuition, like books, equipment and living expenses.

University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign maintains a list of campus-specific financial aid that is only available to students in the school’s Graduate College.  The Fellowship Opportunity Database  can be searched for general aid, or tuned-in to include specific search parameters like gender, dissertation support and international studies.

American College of Sports Medicine  started offering research dollars to doctoral candidates in 1989.  What started as a single grant, has grown to assist 25 students each year, with hundreds of thousands of reasons for doctoral research students to participate.

Specialty-based

Grants for doctoral students are often distributed based on each student’s area of study.  Your academic specialty might be what opens the most graduate school grant doors.  Schools, associations and industry-related foundations are responsible for furthering research in areas relative to their continued success.

Doctoral research is especially valuable within health-related fields. The Department of Veteran’s Affairs provides doctoral grants in areas of: Health Rehabilitation, Psychology, Social Work, Women’s Health, Research and Development, and Health Informatics.

Alfred P. Sloan Foundation is committed to science, technology and economics.  The Foundation supports original research in these areas, if it has the potential to benefit society.  Mr. Sloan was president of General Motors, but the grants are not associated with the company.  Instead, they reflect Mr. Sloan’s persona belief that STEM subjects and their relationships with economics have the greatest transformative impacts on human life.  Some areas currently receiving attention from the Sloan Foundation include:

• Sloan Digital Sky Survey
• The Census of Marine Life
• The Encyclopedia of Life
• Public Understanding of Science and Technology
• Workplace, Work Force and Working Families
• Economic Institutions, Behavior and Performance

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) provides fellowships for advanced studies in accounting disciplines.  The AICPA Fellowship for Minority Doctoral Students promotes diversity within the accounting field, specifically fostering greater representation among minority educators.  Minority students with the potential to act as educational role models for future minority accountants are encouraged to compete for $12,000 awards annually.  Applicants must be enrolled in doctoral programs full-time, in pursuit of advanced degrees.

AICPA also administers the John L. Carey Accounting Scholarship for students who are engaged in advanced accounting studies and in pursuit of CPA licensure.  $5000 goes to each qualified student, with as many as 10 individual awards disbursed each academic year.

Southern Regional Education Board ( SREB ) recognizes the role of minorities in the classroom.  The simple stated mission of the organization is to create more minority PhDs and encourage them to take faculty positions.  The SREB-State Doctoral Scholars Program promotes educational diversity by empowering under-represented groups to move into advanced degree programs.  The program is part of a national effort called Compact for Faculty Diversity , which emulates the same philosophies.  Founded in 1993, the SREB doctoral program has aided more than one-thousand students to-date, including over 600 graduates.  In addition to post-graduate funding, the program provides employment support for grant recipients.

The Coca-Cola Doctoral Student Grant on Behavior Research is worth $5000 to each winner.  The mission of the fund is specifically related to doctoral research involving individual physical activity, and maintaining exercise habits.  Cutting-edge doctoral students get paid by Coke to devise innovative strategies for getting people to exercise.

Organizations and Associations

Doris Duke Charitable Foundation (DDCF) is a far-reaching philanthropic effort that supports specific educational ares like arts and humanities, environmental research, medical research and African American studies.  Grants from the organization find their way into graduate student hands through re-granting agencies that administer the Foundation’s funds.  Some Doris Duke partners include:

MAP fund  is dedicated to diversity in education.  Research work that explores the roles and interactions of minority groups in society, especially related to class, gender, cultural background, religion and sexual orientation, is funded by MAP grants made possible by Doris Duke support.

New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) uses DDCF money to support touring dance troops.  Choreographers and companies studying fine arts are empowered to bring their new works to diverse audiences, with the help of DDCF Touring Awards.

The Wenner-Gren Fondation is an anthropological organization that furthers international anthropology studies through doctoral grants.  PhD candidates are eligible for dissertation research funding from several scholarship and grant programs put forth by the Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research.

The Foundation supports innovative research that employs an international approach to worldwide anthropological understanding.  The private, New York based organization provides future leaders with tuition help, through these student aid programs:

• Engaged Anthropology Grant – This unique grant is a post-PhD funding opportunity that helps researchers return to the locales where their work was completed.  Once final dissertation field work has been completed, students are invited to apply for up to $5000 toward expenses associated with reporting research results in the regions in which work was undertaken.
• Wadsworth African Fellowships are designed for doctoral students who wish to study at University of Cape Town and other South African schools.  Up to $17,500 is available to each student annually, and the fellowships may be renewed for up to 4 years.  International studies represent a lynch-pin of the Wenner-Gren philosophy of anthropological understanding.
• Dissertation Fieldwork Grants support research initiatives for doctoral students whose work contributes to the field of anthropology.  Applicants are welcomed from all over the world.  Awards are capped at $20,000 per student, but there is an additional aid avenue attached, called the Osmundsen Initiative.  Osmundsen winners gain an additional $5000 worth of dissertation research funding.

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•       Financial Aid       PhD Scholarships and Financial Aid

PAYING FOR YOUR PHD Expert Tips, Scholarships Opportunities and Resources for Financing an Advanced Degree

The average yearly tuition for a PhD program is slightly above $16,000, which means students will invest about $80,000 in tuition fees alone for a five-year program. Add in fees, cost-of-living, travel expenses and the figure can easily surpass six figures. Yet, it is possible to fund a PhD program without breaking the bank and going into debt.

Featured Online Schools

• PhD Cost Breakdown
• PhD Financial Aid Options
• Expert Spotlight: Lawrence Burns, PhD
• Earning Outlook for Phd Students
• Most Lucrative PhD Careers
• Expert Spotlight: Darren Pierre, PhD
• PhD: By The Numbers
• Additional Financial Aid Resources

PHD COST BREAKDOWN

The value of a college education should not be understated, but neither should its actual cost. Earning a doctoral degree can be an expensive proposition. According to the latest data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition and fees for a graduate program of study was $16,435 in 2012-2013. The table below outlines the 2012-2013 graduate tuition and fees by academic institution.

• All Institutions $16,435
• Public $10,408
• Private Non-Profit $23,698
• Private For-Profit $14,418

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

A rough calculation of the number of years it takes to complete a doctoral program, multiplied by the average 2012-2013 tuition and fees from the NCES, reveals the following total cost figures by academic field of study.

A five- to six-figure education is something to take seriously as there are debt implications after leaving finishing a PhD program. Graduating doctoral students in 2013 left school with an average debt of just over $15,000, according to the National Science Foundation. By field, students in the Social Sciences, Education and Humanities graduate with the highest levels of student debt:

• Education: $26,566
• Social Sciences: $26,222
• Humanities: $21,485

Conversely, the science and technology fields graduate students with the lowest debt figures:

• Physical Sciences: $6,342
• Engineering: $7,031
• Life Sciences: $11,905
• Physical Sciences 78.2%
• Engineering 75.1%
• Life Sciences 67.2%
• Humanities 48.4%
• Social Sciences 46.5%
• Education 44.1%

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates, 2013

While these figures may seem alarming, a deeper dive into survey data from the National Science Foundation actually paints a more positive picture. Overall, more than 62 percent of all doctoral recipients graduate from school without a single dollar of debt.

Prospective students can use the table below to get a better sense of the percentage of students who take on debt at incremental levels in each field of academic study. A majority of students graduate with $10,000 or less in debt after finishing their doctoral degree.

PhD Cost Factors

The total cost of earning a doctoral degree is variable because of the sheer number of different factors involved. Tuition is not the only cost to consider when thinking about applying to a PhD program.

Typically, students pay full tuition rates during their first three years of doctoral study and receive reduced tuition rates for the remainder of the program. However, the actual cost of tuition does vary and may be dependent on the student’s actual degree program.

Graduate students pay a range of fees, with the most common including:

• Health Services (access to health facilities on campus)
• Health Insurance (personal health insurance)
• Student Activity (subsidizes athletics and other clubs)
• Student Recreation (access to recreational facilities on campus)

Some programs estimate students should be prepared to pay between $3,000 and $4,500 per academic year in student fees and health insurance costs.

Students with a master’s degree or coursework in a similar graduate program may be able to transfer credits into their doctoral program. That can lower the total number of credits required to graduate, which can lower the total cost of the degree. However, some institutions do limit the amount of tuition credits that can be applied for graduate work done in a related field at other institutions.

Whether or not the student has an assistantship does not affect the cost of textbooks and other academic materials. Books are a revolving charge, one a student should plan upon each semester or quarter.

Housing, utilities and food are considered indirect expenses students incur during their education. PhD students should plan on anywhere from $12,000 to $25,000 and up for living expenses each year. Again, this figure is highly variable based on the location of the university and the cost-of-living in that area.

Owning a car means additional budgeting for insurance, car payments and gas. Additionally, students may need to travel for conferences and research. Without funding from a graduate student association or grant program, the student will have to cover these costs individually.

PhD students with children may have to account for childcare costs. Purchasing a new computer and other supplies may also be required. This type of budgeting will vary from individual to individual, program to program.

Most PhD programs allow students to progress at their own pace, requiring them to complete and defend their dissertation within a certain time period (e.g. six years). However, the time it takes to complete a dissertation depends on the student, area of study, research, etc. This can impact cost of attending a doctoral program.

Example Cost of Attendance

A student’s budget should include the total cost of attendance—that is both direct (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (e.g. housing). This budget is the starting point for determining the student’s financial need, how much financial aid they require, and if they can afford to attend a doctoral program. Below is a sample five-year total cost of attendance chart based on an in-state tuition program, with a budget that assumes fixed costs for fees and indirect costs, such as housing. It also does not take into account assistantships and tuition waivers for assistants.

Based on a figure that’s slightly below the 2012-2013 average graduate tuition cost, the total cost of attendance can still produce sticker shock. An average student in a program that charges $12,000 per year in tuition could have to pay between $30,000 and $45,000 year in total costs.

PhD FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS

Prospective PhD candidates have an abundance of financial aid options to help fund their graduate studies. Typically, students are fully funded by a combination of sources, including scholarships, fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or student loans.

It is important for students to note that most sources of aid are awarded by individual academic programs, so they should follow-up with their department for up-to-date information.

Below is a high-level overview of the common types of graduate financial aid.

Prospective PhD candidates can turn to a variety of funding sources, including scholarships, grants, and fellowships to support their education financially. As discussed, most students use a combination of one or more of these funding sources to finance their degree program and research.

PhD students can apply for a variety of scholarships that award students with funds that can be used to help cover the cost of tuition, books and other fees.

Grants are similar to scholarships and are academic-based awards that can be used to augment other sources of financial aid.

Fellowships are a different type of funding that may encompass a scholarship or grant and can be used to fund research, study and teaching in the US and internationally. Many fellowships provide full tuition and a yearly stipend to students.

A PhD should never be an end in itself but rather a means to an end. The path to a PhD is an arduous one and should never be undertaken without serious thought to what it will bring the student. That said, there is money available for graduate study in most fields, and a student in the humanities should be very careful to apply to appropriate programs which fund their grad students.

• Engineering
• Physical Sciences

The SMART program is designed to support graduate students studying in STEM disciplines and offers a range of other benefits, including supplies and health insurance allowances and employment placement services with the DoD after graduation.

The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship is a three-year graduate fellowship that is designed to support doctoral students across fifteen engineering disciplines.

This three-year fellowship program supports the research efforts of doctoral students in STEM-related fields of study and allows them to pursue their work at any accredited graduate program in the country.

Renewable award for graduate students enrolled in a full-time APA-accredited doctoral program of study in psychology. Underrepresented, minority students are encouraged to apply.

This fellowship is open to female scholars and is designed to help offset the doctoral student’s living expenses during her final year of working on a dissertation.

This fellowship is a single-year of funding that is designed to support the doctoral research of a student working in child psychology.

The Javits Fellowship is provided on a needs- and competitive-basis to graduate students pursing graduate degrees in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

Two fellowships are awarded to support doctoral students who plan to study at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens, Greece for a year.

The Richard M. Weaver Scholarship is open to graduate student members of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and supports the academic work of scholars pursuing teaching careers at the college level.

The AICPA fellowship is designed for minority students pursuing or planning to pursue a doctorate in accounting.

Five scholarships are available to provide financial assistance to graduate students pursuing studies in accounting and plan on earning CPA licensure.

This fellowship provides financial support to female scholars conducting research and economic analysis into natural resource, food, or agricultural issues.

This renewable, four-year fellowship is designed to support a scholar’s work in the field of stewardship science: nuclear science, high density physics, and materials under extreme conditions and hydrodynamics.

This multi-year fellowship supports doctoral research in several fields, ranging from chemistry to geology, materials science to physics and connects fellows with NPSC employer partners.

The NWRI fellowship program is open to full-time doctoral students conducting water-based research in areas such as water quality, water treatment and technologies, water supplies and water resources.

Really think about your reasons for getting a PhD. Critically exam the support systems you have in place to get you through the journey: 50 percent of doctoral students suffer from depression. Utilize services like the counseling center on your college/university campuses to help you respond to the stressors that may occur with the transition.

ASSISTANTSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS AND LOANS

Graduate assistantships.

Graduate assistantships are a form of academic appointment and are provided by individual departments. Competitive in nature, they are typically awarded on the basis of the student’s academic accomplishments and potential in the graduate program of study. Most programs provide appointments for one year at time and students receive a tuition credit or waiver and monthly stipend. There are three types of assistantships: Teaching Assistantships, Assistant Lecturers, and Research Assistants.

Teaching assistants perform a range of support duties for faculty members at a university, including grading papers and teaching classes.

Lecturers may serve as instructors in the academic department where they are studying.

Research assistants conduct and assist faculty members with research projects in the student’s area of interest.

Fellowships

Fellowships are short-term funding opportunities (typically 9- to 12 months) provided to students in the form of tuition credits and/or stipends. They support a student’s graduate study in their field of choice, may assist them in their research, or gain professional training in an area of interest. Fellowships are competitive and are available in two types: University-based and External.

Individual schools, colleges, and departments at a university (e.g. College of Science, Department of English) may have endowed fellowships. Students are either nominated for an award by their department or may be open to an application process.

External fellowships are funded by foundations, government agencies and other groups and provide opportunities to study both in the US and abroad. For example, the Department of Defense offers the National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship to engineering students studying in one of sixteen engineering specialties.

Corporations

Many companies and businesses have created scholarship, fellowship, and tuition reimbursement programs for their employees. Depending on the company, there may be a possibility it supports the graduate school efforts of its employees. Speak to the Human Resources department to learn more about the potential funding avenues available.

Graduate students may borrow funds from the federal government under two loan programs: William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Perkins Loan Program.

Private financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, offer unsecured educational loans to graduate students. These loans must be repaid with interest. The interest rates, loan amount, and repayment terms are based on the credit worthiness of the borrower.

Federal work study provides students with demonstrated financial need part-time job opportunities that allow them to earn income while they are in graduate school. The program focuses on placing students in community service situations related to the student’s academic course of study. A majority of jobs are on-campus, but some schools may have some off-campus jobs with nonprofit agencies and other groups. It is important to note that some universities may not allow students to use their federal work study for tuition, but other related expenses (e.g. books, fees).

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Lawrence Burns, PhD

What should a future phd student consider when selecting a program of   study .

Speaking in the humanities, a student is best advised, I think, to select the faculty member with whom he or she wishes to study rather than simply a program. This faculty member becomes the student’s mentor, a relationship that lasts well beyond graduate school years. Because the mentor becomes the student’s primary reference, his or her standing in the field can and does have an impact on pre- and post-doctoral grants a student might win as well as on the student’s success on the academic job market.

It is a delicate balance though, because one must also look at programs that have standing in a particular field and at institutions that can afford to fund their PhD students throughout their graduate years.

Much is made about the saturation of PhD graduates and not enough   positions — both in academic and the private sector. Should that dissuade   a student from pursuing a PhD?

Yes, of course. Again, a PhD is not something that comes easily, and it should not be pursued without a reason for it. On the other hand, for students who are committed to their fields, and for whom that field is a career choice, the PhD is still the only way into the university job market. 

There is a catch-22 in the world of post-graduate education. Research universities need to turn out research, and researchers often depend on their grad students to assist them–in all fields–and departments on their PhD candidates to teach many undergraduate courses. PhD students are thus recruited regardless of the job market for the PhD holders.

The challenges in funding the PhD for me were less about how am I going to pay for this degree, but making the adjustment from being a full-time salaried employee to now, taking a significant pay cut to serve as a graduate assistant.

EARNING OUTLOOK FOR PHD STUDENTS

Potential career earnings should be a significant part of the discussion when considering whether or not to pursue a doctoral degree. Completing an advanced program of study could increase an individual’s earning potential with their current or future employers.

Research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals a direct correlation between educational attainment and career success—both in employment opportunities and annual salaries. Doctoral degree holders are some of the highest paid professionals in the country. The table below outlines the difference in earnings by degree level in 2014.

source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Earnings and Unemployment by Educational Attainment

• Industry or Business $97,700
• Government $82,000
• Nonprofit Organizations $72,500
• Other $70,000
• Academia $60,000

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates

In turn, prospective students should consider how their sacrifice of time and money will pay off when they embark in their careers. Some professional fields have a higher return on investment than others. A majority of PhD candidates endeavor to become tenured-track faculty members, but they should realize that academia is one of the lowest paying sectors for individuals with a doctoral degree.

A review of National Science Foundation survey information shows that the best paying professional areas for PhD graduates include Industry and Business—with an average salary of $97,700. At the bottom of the list? Academia.

MOST LUCRATIVE PHD CAREERS

So, which PhD degrees pay the best?

According to the NSF, business, economics, and engineering are consistently among the best earning academic fields regardless of industry. The following tables outline the highest paying academic fields by professional area of work after graduation.

• Business Management and Administration $110,000
• Economics $82,000
• Engineering $79,000
• Health Sciences $70,000
• Education $60,000
• Business Management and Administration $135,000
• Economics $115,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $115,000
• Geosciences $110,000
• Engineering $98,000
• Economics $112,500
• Business Management and Administration $96,590
• Engineering $96,500
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $95,300
• Health Sciences $94,000
• Business Management and Administration $105,000
• Economics $100,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $100,000
• Health Sciences $98,000

At the occupational level, 2012 employment research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed the best paying doctoral career was Physicist ($109,600), followed by Astronomers ($105,410), and Engineering Professors ($94,130).

Overall, the top 10 most lucrative PhD careers include the following:

• 1 Physicists $109,600
• 2 Astronomers $105,410
• 3 Engineering Professors $94,130
• 4 Economics Professors $90,870
• 5 Health Specialties Professors: $90,210
• 6 Agricultural Sciences Professors $86,260
• 7 Biochemists and Biophysicists $84,940
• 8 Forestry and Conservation Science Professors $84,090
• 9 Physics Professors $80,720
• 10 Medical Scientists $79,930

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Darren Pierre, PhD

How has earning a phd impacted you personally and professionally.

Personally, the PhD was an incredibly introspective process. I believe for many, they go into the PhD thinking one thing, and come out transformed by the experience. I learned and grew personally in how I harness my self-worth, I grew professionally in my ability to humble myself and authentically listen to the feedback given about my work.

Professionally, I move with a greater level of confidence, I have more insight into my own potential in ways I could have never imagined, and all of that propelled me to write my book, The Invitation to Love.

Through your own experience, what are the biggest mistakes   prospective PhD students make when choosing and/or funding their PhD?

The biggest mistake that perspective students make is doing the degree for the wrong reason. If you are doing the degree for any other reason that self-motivated factors, you will falter. Doing the PhD to cover areas of insecurity, or low self-worth; doing the PhD for the prestige or title sake, those reasons will have you floundering and faltering when the psychological stressors being to weigh heavy.

Did you create a roadmap--financially or academically--to stay on track to   completing your PhD?

Absolutely, you have to have a plan and work that plan. Each Sunday, I would develop the week's action plan, I would carve out everything from when I was doing assignments/research to when I would work out, everything was on a schedule so that even when the fog of the process set in, I had headlights (my schedule) that allowed me to drive consistently when the road ahead was hard to see.

PHD: BY THE NUMBERS

Doctoral education in the U.S. is a varied and broad system, one that has been growing in popularity. In the 2013-2014 academic year, more than 178,000 doctoral degrees were conferred to students nationally, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

• Doctoral Education Continues to Grow
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Dominate
• STEM Fields are the Most Popular
• Only Half of Students Earn a PhD in the Same Academic Field as their Master’s Degree
• Doctoral Degrees are an Investment in Time
• Primary Source of Funding Varies by Program

In its survey of earned doctorates, the National Science Foundation learned the number of doctoral recipients increased by nearly 30 percent between 2003 and 2013.

The most popular academic areas of study were Engineering and the Physical Sciences.

• Engineering 69.80%
• Physical Sciences 59.30%
• Health Sciences 53.60%
• Life Sciences 44.60%
• Other 38.90%
• Social Sciences 19.90%
• Humanities 9.10%
• Education -25.70%

Within the engineering and physical sciences disciplines, multiple sub-fields have been experiencing explosive interest and enrollments, with some programs (e.g. physics, materials science engineering) growing by more than 70 percent between 2003 and 2013.

• Other engineering 127.5%
• Materials science engineering 86.5%
• Aerospace, aeronautical, and astronautical engineering 74.5%
• Mechanical engineering 70.5%
• Electrical, electronics, and communication engineering 53.6%
• Chemical engineering 46.0%
• Computer and information sciences 119.1%
• Mathematics 83.0%
• Physics and astronomy 76.7%
• Geosciences 28.8%
• Chemistry 22.0%

According to NSF, the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields are the most popular doctoral areas of study.

• Life Sciences 23.3%
• Physical Sciences 17.6%
• Engineering 17.0%
• Social Sciences 15.9%
• Humanities 10.7%
• Education 9.4%

Interestingly, slightly more than 56 percent of graduate students continue into a doctoral program in the same field as their master’s degree. Rates are highest in the humanities, engineering, and social sciences fields.

• Humanities 67.6%
• Engineering 65.7%
• Social Sciences 65.6%
• Education 61.5%
• All Fields 56.1%
• Physical Sciences 53.4%
• Life Sciences 35.5%

It requires approximately 7.5 years of study for the average graduate student to complete a doctoral degree after enrolling in graduate school. Education takes the longest — more than 11 years, while the physical sciences and engineering fields only require 6.5 to 6.6 years of study to complete.

• Education 11.7
• Humanities 9.2
• Social Sciences 7.7
• All Fields 7.5
• Life Sciences 6.9
• Engineering 6.6
• Physical Sciences 6.5

According to the NSF, the most common source of funding for doctoral students are teaching and research assistantships. The table below details the primary source of funding for students by academic area of study.

• Life Sciences Fellowships/ Grants
• Physical Sciences Research Assistantships
• Social Sciences Teaching Assistantships
• Engineering Research Assistantships
• Education Own Resources
• Humanities Teaching Assistantships
• All Fields Research Assistantships

The following table includes a breakout of the primary funding source by major field of study, according the National Science Foundation.

Source: http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/sed/2013/data-tables.cfm

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

The ultimate financial goal of any PhD student should be to complete their program successfully and move into a professional career with as little debt as possible. The resources below are available to help students locate scholarships and other funding sources that can help make that goal a reality.

Unigo offers a selection of financial assistance resources for graduate students, including a scholarship directory, a scholarship match tool, educational information on student loans and funding options, and more.

Scholarships.com is a website that provides a selection of financial aid information, including a searchable scholarship directory, insights into funding trends, financial aid calculators, and information about grants and fellowships.

Peterson’s is an educational resource site that includes a searchable scholarship database, articles and advice columns, and a catalog of graduate school profiles.

FinAid.org is an educational resource site that focuses on financial aid and offers information about student loans, federal financial aid, financing a doctoral education, and includes a scholarship search option.

An office of the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid is the country’s largest provider of financial aid. Graduate students can learn about and pally for loans, grants, and work-study funds to pay for their doctoral education.

FastWeb is a financial aid-focused website that offers a searchable scholarship directory that allows students to focus their search to their major area of study, work experience, and personal and professional activities.

Chegg is an online educational portal that not only offers used textbooks, but a scholarship database as well.

Do PhD Students Get Paid? Phd Stipend, Salary, Research Grants

When starting your journey into earning a PhD, one of the biggest questions would be the funding. Will you make enough to support yourself throughout the study period? On top of that, there are also issues such as study fees to think about. 

In this post, we explore if PhD students get paid, and if these income are enough to support you throughout your studying period.

Do PhD Students Get Paid? 

In short, yes. Many PhD students actually receive some form of financial help, although the question of “how much” is more complex. 

The most common forms PhD students get paid are either through a stipend, or some form tuition waivers.

PhD Stipend & Salary

PhD stipends are a form of financial support, not a salary. They are primarily designed to cover living expenses, allowing students to focus on their dissertation without the need for a part-time job. It may not make sense to consider these stipend as a fully salary.

PhD programs often provide stipends through teaching or research assistantships. As a teaching assistant, you usually help in:

• Administering or coursework,
• Running seminars, or
• Assisting faculty members. 

Research assistantships, on the other hand, align more closely with your field of study, offering hands-on experience in paid research.

The amount of these stipends can vary depending on the field of study and institution. These stipends can range from enough to live modestly to higher amounts in top universities or private companies.

For example, STEM fields generally offer higher stipends due to larger research grants.

Tuition Waiver

In some universities or countries, PhD students may not get any stipend, or allowance. Instead, they get tuition waivers as a form of financial help.

Essentially, these waivers mean that PhD students often don’t pay for their coursework. This can come as a relief, especially when tuition costs are not very high, up to thousands of dollars annually. 

Why do universities offer this? It’s to attract the best candidates and make doctoral education more accessible.

For instance, in STEM fields, where research is heavily funded, tuition waivers are almost a given. This also applies to the social sciences, though the extent of waivers might vary depending on funding availability.

In addition to tuition waivers, some generous universities and countries may also top this up with a stipend. This stipend is meant to cover living expenses, allowing students to focus on their dissertation rather than worry about financial strain.

It’s important to note that while stipends help with living costs, tuition waivers remove the burden of tuition fees entirely. There are also funders that will pay for even things such as books, clothing, thesis, or publication costs.

International students particularly benefit from tuition waivers, as they face higher tuition rates. Coupled with a stipend, these waivers make pursuing a PhD in a foreign country more feasible.

Do PhD Students Earn Enough To Live?

This depends on various factors, including the field of study, location, and the university’s funding structure.

However, you may assume while PhD students don’t get rich from their stipends, most find them sufficient to live on, especially when combined with tuition waivers and assistantships.

The key is understanding the financial package offered by your PhD program and planning accordingly.

PhD students typically receive financial support in the form of a stipend. This stipend is meant to cover basic living expenses, allowing you to focus on your dissertation. The amount varies widely.

For instance, stipends in STEM fields can be higher, owing to larger research grants. In contrast, stipends in the social sciences might be lower, reflecting the funding landscape of these areas.

In addition to stipends, many PhD students receive tuition waivers. This means you’re not paying out of pocket for your coursework, significantly reducing your financial burden. This is especially helpful for international students who often face higher tuition rates.

PhD students often supplement their income with teaching or research assistantships. These positions not only offer financial aid but also provide valuable academic experience. Assistantships typically cover a portion of tuition or provide a stipend, further easing financial stress.

The cost of living in the university’s location plays a crucial role. In cities with a high cost of living, stipends might not stretch as far, whereas in more affordable areas, you might find it easier to cover your expenses.

For a more concrete example, a PhD student in a European country or Middle East might receive a tax-free stipend, which is generally enough to live modestly but comfortably. Contrast this with a student in a high-cost city in the U.S., who might need to find additional income sources.

Can International Students In A PhD Program Earn Money?

If you are an International PhD student, you may wonder if you can earn money while pursuing your studies. The answer largely depends on the regulations of the host country and the specific terms of their visa.

In many countries, international PhD students are allowed to work, but there are restrictions on the number of hours they can work per week.

In the United States, international students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.

In the UK, the rules are similar for students on a Tier 4 visa. These regulations are designed to ensure that work doesn’t interfere with the primary purpose of their stay, which is education.

Apart from part-time jobs, many international PhD students earn money through teaching or research assistantships offered by their universities. These positions not only provide financial support but also valuable experience in their field of study.

Assistantships typically involve assisting professors with teaching undergraduate courses or participating in research projects.

Additionally, some international students receive stipends as part of their PhD program. These stipends are intended to cover living expenses and are a common form of financial aid in graduate studies. However, it’s important to note that the availability and amount of stipends can vary widely between programs and institutions.

For those who need additional financial support, applying for scholarships, fellowships, or grants specific to international students can be a viable option. These forms of financial aid can provide substantial support, though they often come with their own set of requirements and limitations.

How To Earn More Money As A PhD Student?

Earning more money as a PhD student can be challenging, but there are several ways to supplement your income:

• Teaching Assistantships : Many universities offer teaching assistant roles to PhD students. These positions typically involve assisting professors with undergraduate classes, leading discussion sections, or grading assignments.
• Research Assistantships : If your field of study aligns with funded research projects at your university, applying for a research assistant position can be a lucrative option. These roles involve assisting with research, which can also contribute to your dissertation.
• Fellowships and Grants : Applying for fellowships and grants can provide additional funding. They can be sourced from university departments, private foundations, or government agencies.
• Part-Time Work or Consulting : Depending on your visa status and university regulations, you might be able to take up part-time work or consulting gigs in your field. This can be especially profitable in STEM fields, where technical expertise is in high demand.
• Freelancing or Online Tutoring : Utilise your academic skills by freelancing or online tutoring. Platforms that cater to academic writing, data analysis, or subject-specific tutoring can be excellent sources of additional income.

PhD Students Do Earn Money, But Just Enough

While PhD students don’t receive traditional salaries, they often get financial support through stipends, assistantships, and fellowships.

These funds are designed to cover living expenses and tuition, making it feasible to pursue doctoral studies without significant financial strain. The amount varies by field and location, but generally, it’s enough to live modestly.

Ultimately, while PhD students aren’t earning hefty salaries, the support provided is a critical investment in their academic and professional development.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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Provost Grants for PhD Students with Families

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The Office of the Provost has created two grant programs for PhD students to help offset the cost of childcare and family expenses, and health insurance for dependents. 

The grants are funded by the Office of the Provost and administered by the Family Resource Center and the Office of Student Registration and Financial Services. For the academic year, the grant program will have two application cycles to support students with qualifying life events to access grant funds after the Fall grant deadline. Funding for this grant is limited and grants will be disbursed as funding allows. Students who received Fall PhD Grants should not apply for the Spring grant unless they have had a life event--new baby, marriage, change in funding/employment, or change in dependent insurance coverage. 

2023-24 Academic Year and Fall 2023 Family Grant And Dependent Insurance Grant application: August 21- September 22, 2023.

Spring 2024 Application cycle: January 22-February 23, 2024  No extensions or exceptions can be made for those who miss the deadline or do not meet eligibility criteria. 

*Please read the program details carefully as some changes have been made.*

• Family Grant
• Dependent Health Insurance Grant
• For information on grants to subsidize health insurance and dental insurance for PhD students, please visit the Graduate Student Center's website

The Family Grant helps to offset the cost of childcare and other expenses for PhD students with children.

Fall/Academic Year Grant Cycle:

During the Fall Grant application period , eligible PhD students may receive up to $5,000 for one child, $2,500 for each additional child, with a $10,000 maximum per family. The Fall Grant application period is intended to fund the entire academic year and those graduating in December. Students graduating in December will be eligible for partial grants. 

During the Spring Grant application period, eligible PhD students may receive up to $2,500 for one child, $1,250 for each additional child with a $5,000 maximum per family. The Spring Grant application period is for those who did not qualify for Fall grants or had a qualifying life change after the Fall application deadline. If you received a Fall Grant and did not have a qualifying life change, do not apply for the Spring Grant. 

Fall Application Opens: August 21- September 22, 2023 

Spring 2024 Application cycle: January 22 - February 23, 2024 by 5:00 PM

Direct all questions to [email protected]. 

Eligibility

Eligible doctoral students must:

• Have a dependent child or children under the age of 18 or disabled living with them. In order to be considered, fall applicants must have their baby/child by December 15, 2023 and spring applicants must have their baby/child by April 21, 2024. Those expecting babies/children after the application deadline, should still apply by the deadline then submit the proof of child documentation after the baby is born or adopted. Please indicate this late document on the application.  
• Be currently registered in a Penn PhD program and in  good academic standing . Students on leave (except family and medical leave) during either semester are not eligible.
• Only PhD doctoral students can apply.
• Be enrolled in years 1-8. Students in year nine or beyond are not eligible.
• Students who received PhD grants during the fall term are not eligible to reapply during the spring cycle unless they had/adopted a baby after December 15, 2023 or had a qualifying life event  like marriage, divorce, employment change, insurance eligibility change. 

Documentation

Below are the required documentation* items that must be submitted via the  online document submission form , select "PhD Grant Application" in the drop-down menu when you upload documents.  Have all of your documents ready when you begin the application.  If you are unable to provide a required document you must provide a written explanation of its absence. 

• Copies of the 2022 U.S. tax returns for student and spouse (if filing separately).
• 2022 W2s for student and spouse/partner. (Penn W2s for 2022  can be accessed here .)
• Copies of the most recent two pay stubs for all working adults in the household. (Stipend and campus employment pay stubs can be found in Workday. ) 
• If applicable, proof of tuition or childcare expenses for dependents, in the form of daycare/childcare invoices, cancelled checks, and/or money transfer receipts to caregivers.  Documentation is required only if a childcare related expense is listed on the application.
• your tax returns if you've claimed the child(ren) as dependents;
• a copy of the child(ren)'s birth certificate(s) or U.S. passport(s);
• copy of the Dependent I-20 or DS2019 forms;
• health insurance documents.
• Documentation of any other major costs or expenses reported in your application, as relevant. 

*All documentation will be handled in accordance with the University's  privacy policies.

Grant Considerations

Before you apply, you should know:

• Grants are not guaranteed. Grants are disbursed as funding allows, with priority given to the students who demonstrate the highest financial need. ( Do note, due to the economic impact of COVID-19, we are anticipating a larger pool of high-need applicants, as a result, families with higher household incomes may not receive awards as they have in previous grant cycles.) 
• Fall Grant/Academic year: $5,000 for one child, $2,500 for each additional child with a $10,000 maximum per family.
• Spring Grant: $2,500 for one child, $1,250 for each additional child with a $5,000 maximum per family.
• Married and/or partnered PhD students should submit only one application.
• Grants are awarded annually, and you must reapply each year.  
• Fall 2023 and 23-24 AY grant recipients will be notified by late October, with funds disbursed in November 2023. Spring 2024 grant recipients will be notified by early March and funds will be disbursed in March 2024.   
• Funds will be processed through your student account.  This is a separate system from Workday.  You must you must  set up direct deposit in in PennPay  via a U.S. bank, FlyWire, or PayMyTuition or a paper check will be mailed to the permanent address listed in your Penn Profile.   
• If you have an outstanding balance on your student account, the grant will be applied to your bill. Any remaining funds will be disbursed to you as a student account refund, leaving a zero balance on your student account. If you have outstanding charges in excess of the grant amount, the grant will apply to those charges and no refund will be processed.   
• All University grants to individuals may be considered taxable income by the government. You are responsible for reporting the grant income and paying any applicable taxes.  Depending on your tax status, taxes may be withheld prior to the grant disbursement. Such taxes may be refunded when students file annual taxes with the IRS. The SFS website provides additional information regarding  withholding taxes on grants and aid for non-U.S. citizens .    
• If you are receiving student loans or other forms of aid, this grant could reduce your loan amount or exceed your semester budget maximum. Students who are receiving funding up to or beyond their approved aid budget are responsible for contacting Student Financial Services to understand how receiving this grant may affect their aid package. There may be options available to you for a budget adjustment or other steps in order to receive all awarded funds, depending on your individual circumstances. Contact  [email protected]  or schedule an appointment with a  Graduate Financial Aid Counselor  to discuss your account status.  
• If you do not remain in good academic standing during the period covered by the grant, some or all of the grant funds may be rescinded.  
• Applicant funding status and fellowship stipend amounts will be verified with graduate groups and school finance administrators. You are responsible for notifying us if your funding status changes during the period covered by the grant. Failure to do so will result in grant funds being rescinded.  
• If you provide false or misleading information or documentation in your grant application, the grant funds will be rescinded, and  you will be referred to the  Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CSA)  for disciplinary action. 

How to Apply 

• Complete the  online application.
• Submit required documents using this  online document submission form , include the text "PhD Grant Documentation" in the message field. 

Failure to provide all necessary documentation will result in delays reviewing your application or rejection of application. You may be asked to provide additional documentation or information needed to evaluate your application. 

*We are committed to ensuring the security of your information. We have put in place reasonable physical, technical, and administrative safeguards designed to prevent unauthorized access to, or use of, the information collected online. 

Read how Penn respects and protects your data.  

This grant helps to offset the cost of dependent health insurance for PhD students with children and/or spouses.

During the Fall/academic year application cycle, eligible students may receive grant funds up to $1,000 per dependent. 

During the Spring application cycle, eligible students may receive up to $500 per dependent.

Fall Application Opens: August 21- September 22, 2023

Spring 2024 Application cycle: January 22-February 23, 2024

• Have a dependent child or children under the age of 26 or disabled living with them at least part of the time and/or have a spouse. Children must be born by December 15, 2023 for Fall applications. Children must be born/adopted by April 21, 2024 for Spring applications. Those expecting babies/children after the application deadline, should still apply by the deadline then submit the proof of child documentation after the baby/child is born/adopted. Please indicate this late document on the application.  
• Have purchased a qualifying health insurance policy for their dependents/spouse for the current year. The policy does not have to be PSIP, but the policy must meet the criteria listed below.
• Be currently registered in a Penn PhD program and in  good academic standing  during period covered by the grant cycle. Students on leave (except family and medical leave) during either semester are not eligible.  Only PhD doctoral students can apply.
• $61,000 or less for household of 3 or more
• $40,000 or less for household of 2
• Students who received PhD grants during the fall term are not eligible to reapply during the spring cycle unless they had/adopted a baby after December 15, 2023, or have another qualifying life event like marriage, divorce, employment change, insurance eligibility change. 

Below are the required documentation* items that must be submitted via the  online document submission form . Select "PhD Grant Application" in the drop-down menu when you upload documents.   Have all of your documents ready when you begin the application.  If you are unable to provide a required document you must provide a written explanation of its absence. 

• Copies of the 2022 (or 2022) U.S. tax returns for student and spouse (if filing separately)
• Copies of the most recent two pay stubs for all working adults in the household. (Stipend and campus employment pay stubs can be found in Workday.)
• Proof that you have personally purchased health insurance for your dependents/spouse. Document must include the amount paid for the insurance, this can be an invoice and must list the names of the family members enrolled in the plan. Dental and Vision insurance not included in this program. 
• A benefits summary for the health insurance plan, unless it is PSIP. Benefit summary must outline what the insurance plan covers so we can verify it meets our insurance requirements. Dental and vision insurance plans are not included in this grant program.

*Our office is committed to ensuring the security of your information. We have put in place reasonable physical, technical, and administrative safeguards designed to prevent unauthorized access to, or use of, the information collected online.

• Grants are not guaranteed. Grants are disbursed as funding allows, with priority given to the students who demonstrate the highest financial need.
• Grants are awarded in the range of $250-$1000 for the fall cycle and $250-500 for the spring cycle.  (F amilies with higher household income and assets may receive grants less than the maximum award amount.)
• If you are applying for an insurance grant for a spouse who is also a Penn PhD student, they should apply directly for the  health insurance program for PhD students .
• Grants are awarded annually, and you must reapply each year.

Criteria for insurance plans for dependents/spouse:

• The insurance plan must be provided by a company licensed to do business in the United States, with a U.S. claims payment office and a U.S. telephone number. The company must have a process to remit payments to providers within the U.S. However, if you and/or your family will be living outside of the United States the insurance plan must cover your dependents in the area where you/they reside.
• The insurance plan must provide coverage for pre-existing conditions, or have been in effect long enough that any waiting period has passed.
• Your insurance plan must provide coverage for both in-patient and out-patient medical care in the area of your residence, including routine office visits, specialist office visits, diagnostic testing, imaging and physical therapy. A policy that provides only emergency or urgent medical care in this area does not meet this requirement.

You will be asked to provide a benefits summary for the insurance plan when you apply unless it is PSIP, and we will audit the plans. In addition, you will be required to sign an attestation that your plan meets these criteria. If during the audit, we find that your plan does not meet these criteria, any grant funds will be rescinded.

• Submit required documents using this  online document submission form , include the text "PhD Grant Documentation" in the message field. 

Grants for Students with Financial Need Penn offers a number of funding sources to support individual students with financial need. These include:

• Insurance Grants for PhD Students The University offers two grant programs for PhD students to help offset the cost of health insurance and dental insurance. These grants are funded by the Office of the Provost and administered by the Graduate Student Center and the Office of Student Registration and Financial Services.
• Trustees’ Council of Penn Women Emergency Grant The Trustees' Council of Penn Women will offer grants to students who have special financial needs. Special consideration will be given to women students. Grants will be for sudden, compelling, and unanticipated need due to changed financial circumstances. Examples include the death or unemployment of a parent or illness. These students would be unable to continue their studies without special financial assistance. Students should demonstrate resourcefulness and self-reliance in their quest for a Penn education, and their qualities should identify them as role models for other University students.  
• Graduate Emergency Fund and   Undergraduate Emergency & Opportunity Funding Unexpected financial circumstances can cause undergraduate, graduate, and professional students stress and impact their ability to achieve and thrive. The Division of the Vice Provost for University Life's Access and Retention Fund provides one-time Emergency Funds or Opportunity Grants to help low-income and/or first-generation undergraduate students participate in experiences they otherwise cannot afford.
• Career Services summer funding for internships Many summer internships, particularly in certain fields, provide only a small stipend or do not pay at all. Frequently the internships are located in cities with a high cost of living. This means that many students are unable to take advantage of excellent positions, which are sometimes the first step on a career in a given field. Other students wish to participate in not for profit or NGO work abroad, or to do a research project, but the travel costs to get there are prohibitive.
• Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Support Award  ​​​​​ The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation will offer five Education Support Awards of up to $5000 each to assist low-income women with children who are pursuing education or training. Awardees will be selected based on: Financial need, personal circumstance, educational path, vocational or occupational goals, and service or activist or civic goals.

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The U.S. National Science Foundation offers hundreds of funding opportunities — including grants, cooperative agreements and fellowships — that support research and education across science and engineering.

Learn how to apply for NSF funding by visiting the links below.

Finding the right funding opportunity

Learn about NSF's funding priorities and how to find a funding opportunity that's right for you.

Preparing your proposal

Learn about the pieces that make up a proposal and how to prepare a proposal for NSF.

Submitting your proposal

Learn how to submit a proposal to NSF using one of our online systems.

How we make funding decisions

Learn about NSF's merit review process, which ensures the proposals NSF receives are reviewed in a fair, competitive, transparent and in-depth manner.

NSF 101 answers common questions asked by those interested in applying for NSF funding. 

Research approaches we encourage

Learn about interdisciplinary research, convergence research and transdisciplinary research.

Newest funding opportunities

Mathematical modeling of policy options for evolving public health challenges (mpophc), non-academic research internships for graduate students in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies (hydrogen intern) supplemental funding opportunity, nsf-nih pathfinder supplements on quantum sensors for biomedical science, research training groups in the mathematical sciences (rtg).

Graduate Research Fellowship Program

What is GRFP?

Fellowship benefits.

• Five year fellowship period with three years of financial support
• Annual stipend of $37,000
• Cost-of-education allowance of $16,000 to the institution
• No post-graduate study service requirement
• Access to supplemental funding to sustain research while on medical deferral (e.g. family leave)

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Am I Eligible ?

To be eligible for the NSF GRFP, you must:

• be a US citizen, US national, or permanent resident
• intend to pursue a research-based Master’s or Ph.D. program in a GRFP-supported field
• be enrolled in an eligible program at an accredited United States graduate institution, with a US campus, by fall following selection
• be at an early stage in your graduate career
• have completed no more than one academic year of full-time graduate study (or the equivalent)
• Graduate students are limited to only one application to the GRFP, submitted either in the first year or in the second year of graduate school

Click here for more information

What's My Level?

Application level selection.

The GRFP Application requires you to select the academic level that best describes the stage of your academic career. Use the GRFP Academic Level Questionnaire to help you select the appropriate academic level in your application. Levels are determined as follows:

Level 1. You have not previously enrolled in a graduate degree-granting program, but plan to start graduate study next fall. Includes undergraduates in the final year of a bachelor’s degree program and individuals who previously earned a bachelor’s degree.

Level 2. First year graduate student currently enrolled in a graduate degree-granting program, who has never applied to GRFP before as a graduate student or returning graduate student, or a student currently enrolled in a joint bachelor’s-master’s degree program (must have completed three academic years in program).

Level 3. Second year graduate student who has completed no more than one academic year of graduate study while enrolled in any graduate degree-granting program, does not have a graduate degree, and has never applied to GRFP before as a graduate student or returning graduate student.

Level 4. Returning graduate student who is not currently enrolled in a degree-granting program, and may have more than one academic year in a graduate-degree granting program and/or a master’s or professional degree, followed by an interruption of at least two years just prior to the GRFP application deadline. Note: address the reasons for the interruption and why you should be considered to be in the early stages of your graduate education in the Personal, Relevant Background and Future Goals Statement.

GRFP recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who have demonstrated the potential to be high achieving scientists and engineers, early in their careers. Applicants must be pursuing full-time research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) or in STEM education at accredited US institutions.

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NSF welcomes scientists and engineers to serve as reviewers of GRFP applications. Serving as a GRFP Reviewer is an excellent opportunity to apply your research and career expertise to help identify future science and engineering leaders.

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Reference Writers

Reference letters are a key component of a strong GRFP application package. The most effective reference letters provide detailed and specific information about how an applicant meets the NSF Merit Review Criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.

• Oct. 5, 2022 - 11:15 AM to 1:15 PM ET Info for Reference Writers & Research Mentors
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Fellowships & Grants

Since 1888, AAUW has been one of the largest funders of women’s graduate education, investing in women who go on to change the world.

Apply for AAUW’s Fellowships and Grants Today!

Follow in the footsteps of award-winning authors, scientists, scholars, changemakers, and community leaders. AAUW is providing more than $6 million in funding to 285 fellows and grantees in the 2023-24 award year. These exceptional recipients will pursue academic work and lead innovative community projects to empower women and girls. Will you be next?

Current Opportunities

Pursuing academic work or leading community projects? See if there is an AAUW fellowship or grant that matches your academic or professional goals! To confirm your eligibility for a program, review the application instructions carefully.

Welcome, Class of 2022-23!

Dr. Nabiha Saklayen, 2013-14 International Fellow and CEO and Co-Founder of Cellino, welcomes the incoming class of AAUW fellows and grantees.

Meet a Grantee

As an advocate for social justice, Chasity J. Deal is currently researching the correlation between inadequate housing and inequitable health care within our underrepresented and underserved populations. Her work also focuses on poverty and health, and how this correlation affects entire populations. She intends to pursue her doctoral degree upon earning her master’s. Her goal is to start a nonprofit research organization devoted to eradicating food and water insecurity in the United States.

3 Questions for Rachael Rollins

"We need to realize that we are just as qualified to do things as men are."

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GradPro offers a limited number of small grants (up to $1,000) each year to departments to run career preparation and exploration opportunities for graduate students. A preference is given to funding the development and implementation of new programs and events, and programs and events that foster faculty participation. Applications for these grants are accepted on a rolling basis and should be submitted no later than one month prior to the event or program. However it is strongly recommended that applications for events or programs be submitted the semester prior to the event or program date.

Grant Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted by a faculty member, although graduate students are encouraged to work with faculty to develop a grant proposal. The program, event, or resource funded must be available to all students in the department.

The use of grant funds should be informed by the professional development needs and experiences of students in the department. The purpose of this requirement is to make sure current student experiences and needs inform professional development efforts undertaken by your department. If your department does not have a formalized way to collect input from students, GradPro recommends that departments take part in a needs assessment facilitated by GradPro. Learn more about GradPro facilitated needs-assessments here.

Departments that receive grant funds will be asked to provide a brief summary report after the funded project has been completed.

Eligible Grant Expenses

Events, programs, and resources that grant funding can be used for include, but are not limited to :

• Alumni career panel (for nonacademic careers or both non-academic and academic careers)
• Workshop or panel on other professional development topics (e.g., job negotiations, converting CV to resume, transferable skills)
• Creation or updating of alumni career list (including academic and non-academic careers) that is accessible to students and faculty
• Creation or updating of section of department handbook or wiki pertaining to non-academic and academic job search
• Development of unit devoted to professional or career development topics in a required seminar for students (often called a “proseminar”)
• Development of mock-interview program for academic and non-academic jobs, including feedback from faculty

The grant funds can go towards expenses such as speakers fees or honoraria, refreshments and food, costs for event materials, or payment for student organizers.

GradPro will respond to all applications within one month of the application submission date. If you have any questions, please contact GradPro at [email protected] .

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Grants for Doctoral Students

Doctoral students are at an advanced stage in their studies and they come from various different backgrounds. Doctoral degrees are highly academic and research based. The researches are very intensive and in depth and the time to complete a doctoral degree will be several years.

These degrees, however, are very expensive and the expenses last for a prolonged period of time. Most students may find it almost impossible to bear the costs for completing the degree and have to look out for other sources to fund them. Very few students can really afford to self-fund their entire doctoral degree.

They need not be repaid. Many of the grants, however, have certain qualifying factors which a student has to fulfill in order to be able to get the grant. Grants, therefore, are the most popular and desired methods of acquiring funds by the students.

Agencies That Offer Grants

The common agencies that offer grants are:

• Federal and State Governments
• Colleges and Universities
• Public and Private Organizations

The grants may also be separated into different categories such as:

• Student-specific
• Subject-specific
• Degree Level

Federal Grants

The federal grants are provided to the really economically disadvantaged students to pursue higher studies at different levels. There are several federal grants available. The most popular one is:

The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (SMART Grant):

This grant is for seniors studying computer science, engineering, mathematics, or sciences. Applicants should be eligible for and receiving Pell grant to be able to apply for this grant and receive it.

State Grants

Like the federal grants, the state grants are also plenty and they grant funding to resident students based on merit, need and area of study. Some of them are:

• Oklahoma state grant which offers need-based and specialized grant programs.
• Michigan state grant which offers grants to general undergraduates, academically gifted, low-income, and non-traditional adult students.
• Florida state grant which offers grants for disadvantaged, disabled, loan repayment, Hispanics, and academically talented.

Some other state grants include California’s Cal Grant program and New York’s Tuition Assistance Program where the student will have to attend a stste-funded institution only.

Common and Relevant Grants for the Doctoral Students are

All types of colleges and universities, offering a Ph.D program, will generally offer grants to doctoral students. They will do this with the expectation that the student will, in turn, contribute to the college or university in the form of teaching or assisting.

Many times, the grant will be enough to cover just a part of the entire expenses, like tuition, and for the rest of the expenses such as the books, accomodation, and transportation, the student has to apply to other sources of funding like a loan or other grants. The seats available for a Ph.D program are, usually, very limited and there is very tough competition to get into the program. The brightest get filtered to take on the program.

Organizations and Associations

Different organizations and associations offer grants to students to pursue doctoral degrees in the area of research that is relevant to them. For example, Housing and Urban Development offers grants to Ph.D students who are carrying out research on a topic that is related to their organization. The grant may cover the tuition costs.

The Fullbright Grants for Israeli Doctoral Students is an other example. The other example is the National Center for Environmental Research which offers:

• STAR Fellowships for students to pursue both master’s and doctoral degrees in environmental studies. They can also pursue studies in social anthropology, urban and regional planning, and decision sciences
• American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science and Engineering Fellows Program
• Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) Fellows Program
• The EPA Marshall Scholarship Program

All these grants are for pursuing studies in the environment and related fields.

Speciality Based

Many specialities are regarded as important and valuable. Students pursuing a doctoral degree in these fields are offered grants by specific institutions that are offering these speciality programs.

Areas that are considered as speciality fields are basically health-related such as, health rehabilitation, psychology, social work, women’s health issues, research and development, and health informatics. For example, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs provides doctoral grants for these areas of study.

The Wenner- Gren Foundation is another such example. This foundation offers funding to doctoral students who wish to pursue their studies in anthropology.

Certain professional corporate sectors also provide grants to doctoral candidates who are interested in researching in the sciences and technology. They also provide grants for overseas study. Many times the organizations provide these grants with the expectation that the beneficiaries will eventually join their organizations and contribute there.

Available Grants

Considering the fact that there are so many different types and sources of grants available, it makes great sense to divide them into different categories to make it further easier for a student to understand which grant they can opt for. The different categories that the grants may be divided into are:

Student-Specific Grants

The students may come from various different backgrounds. They may be adult students, ‘at risk’ students, disabled students, high school students, international students, low income students, students who are married, military students, non-traditional students, returning students, or travelling students.

The types have been broadly classified as under and all these students are eligible for grants from one or the other sources. In fact, many of them may be eligible for grants under more than one category.

Grant Classifications

Non-traditional student grants.

Here, adults who are beyond the college going age and who would like to return to school are eligible for grants. Many businesses and industries, state and local governments, colleges and universities are all eager to encourage them. Even on-line education has attracted grants as they recognise the need for adults to juggle between their family responsibilities, work, and studies.

Student survivors and disadvantaged grants

These grants are for categories such as, at-risk students, low-income household students, and students challenged with physical and learning disabilities. Grants such as the federal Pell Grant are perfectly suited for these students.

Grants for minorities and women

The ethnic minority and women who are battered, single, or women pursuing typically male fields of study are all encouraged with this grant for minorities and women.

Grants for international students and students studying abroad: Every year plenty of students come from various countries abroad to study in the USA. Likewise, many American students go overseas to study. Grant programs such as the Fulbright, make it possible for these students to pursue their studies. Fulbright funds both international students and USA students to study abroad.

Grants for graduate and doctoral students

As discussed earlier, most of the colleges and universities offering a Ph.D program will fund the doctoral students to carry out a doctoral program, apart from private and public organizations and associations, and corporate companies. These agencies are rich and would have kept aside millions of dollars for research purposes. Any student willing to contribute to these agencies can benefit from their funding.

Grants for high school and undergraduate students

Students who wish to continue college studies or graduate studies are provided with ample opportunities for grants. Specialized grants in science, math, engineering and technology (SMET subjects) are also eligible. Several federal and state grants are made available to all these students to pursue higher studies.

Grants for military students and families

The Army, Air Force, and Navy offer tuition grants to qualified students in the armed forces. The Army’s Spouse Education Assistance Program, or the Navy equivalent program, and the Spouse Tuition Aid Program, are all available to spouses of married active armed forces personnel to continue with their education or pursue higher studies.

Subject-Specific Grants

Though most of the subjects are provided some grant or the other, there are some subjects that draw the most grant funding from all the sources.

These subjects are science, technology, engineering, math, nursing, teaching, and the arts. There is a shortage of people who are qualified in these fields and the country needs them. Therefore, if the student is interested in pursuing any of these subjects, then they can be quite sure of being offered a grant from one source or the other.

Grants for nurses and medical students

There is a shortage of nurses and medical students in various parts of the country. These professions are very critical and much required. There are federal grants available for nursing students as well as state grants.

Grants for teachers

Teachers for the public schools also remain in shortage. To improve education and attract more students to finish school, there are several grant programs for teachers provided by the states and federal sources such as the Department of Education. There are way more number of jobs that have to be filled up than individuals who are opting for these courses.

There is also something called the SMET ( Science, Math, Engineering, and technology) subjects grants. These are grants given to students who are taking up studies in science, math, engineering, and technology. The student has to be academically competitive. The National SMART ( Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent ) Grant is an example of this type of grant.

Other professional organizations also provide grants for the SMET subjects. Some of these grants are the National Science Foundation Math Fellowships and the Morris Udall Foundation grants.

The Bell Labs and Lucent Technologies’ grants are examples of corporate grants sponsored by the corporate sector. Several science, math, and engineering subjects are awarded these grants. Students who accept these grants may be required to work in the respective corporate organizations during their course of study and after.

The SMET fields are open for grants to under represented students such as, the African American, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, and women students.

Grants by Degree Level

This is the other category of grants. There are many types of grants available based on the degree level. For students belonging to either the graduate level, master’s level, or doctoral levels, grants are available to choose from to further their studies.

Many of these grants are funded by the colleges and universities themselves, apart from public, private, and corporate organizations too. There are also several federal and state government grants that are provided in plenty for the different degree levels. You can visit this page may be referred to for further information on these grants.

Minority Grants

The next category of grants is for the minority category. According to the US Census Bureau, the US minority refers to African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, American Indian, and Alaska Native persons.

The Popular Minority Grants<

The minority groups have been getting into the college levels more than ever before, and there are plenty of sources that are very ready to encourage them by providing funds for furthering their studies.

The 39 Historically Black Colleges and Universities offer very good programs, scholarships, and grants like other colleges and universities.

Grants for African American students

The African American women are considered as the most disadvantaged minorities. Several sources of grants are available to them. The Spelman college is the only college in the US which is dedicated to uplifting the needs of the African American women students. There are countless number of grants for these students especially if they choose to take up any of the specialized fields.

Grants for Hispanic students

The Hispanics are considered as the most under-educated. Most of them do not end up studying beyond high school. Various social, cultural and economic reasons from the past have contributed to this. The Hispanic Grants facilitate them to pursue their education beyond high school and college. Need based grants and scholarships are available to Hispanic students through Hispanic serving colleges in Texas, Florida, California, and Arizona.

Grants for Native American students

The smallest minority of all is, ironically, the Native American group. They have been left behind as they have been living in remote and rural areas. Their maximum level of education has usually been high school and they do not have a family background of higher education. The Native American grants provide them with the much required funds to further their studies.

Grants for Asian American students

The Asian American group of students is the fastest growing ethnic group in the US. Various ethnic organizations provide them the grants, or they are provided by the government, colleges, or universities.

Sallie Mae and Coca Cola are examples of companies that provide grants for students who are the first in their families to go to college, and come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Grants for Women

There are grants specifically meant for women and minorities. Women and the minorities are funded by various colleges and private industries for areas of study such as law, business, and journalism.

The types of minority grants include:

• Ethnic minority grants based on the ethnicity of the student, such as African American students, or Hispanic students
• Non Ethnic minority grants include grants for people with disabilities, learning difficulties, ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), or Autism. Women are also provided grants under this category.

The most popular federal grants are:

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
• Academic Competitiveness Grant
• National SMART Grant

The other sources of minority grants are the minority foundations such as the United Negro College Fund, the Hispanic College Fund, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the American Indian College Fund.

The National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science, and the Black Collegian Organization also offer financial funds to students pursuing higher studies.

University of New Orleans

Another source of grant funding is the University of New Orleans. The Ernest G. Chachere Doctoral Diversity Fellowships grant was established by the Graduate School at the University of New Orleans for minority students in the fields of science and engineering.

This grant offers $22,000 as stipend per year, for four years, to the doctoral student towards expenses at the University of New Orleans. It also covers a four year membership in the Southern Regional Education Board Doctoral Scholars Program. Students who are eligible for this fellowship grant are US minority doctoral students who are entering the science or engineering programs at the New Orleans University.

The doctoral students, usually, constitute a very small percentage of the entire population of students. Any type of student, therefore, can try for any of the grants either in the colleges or universities where they are applying for their doctoral degree, or they can try in any of the private or public organizations, corporate companies, or any of the other sources discussed above.

Many times a single grant may not be sufficient to cover all the expenses involved in completing the doctoral degree. A combination of grants has to be applied for to cover the costs, or some loans have to be applied for.

Different Funding Options

The different areas of graduate and doctoral studies for which funding may be provided by one government source or the other are the following areas of agriculture

• business and commerce
• community development
• consumer protection
• disaster prevention and relief
• labor and training
• environment
• food and nutrition
• income security and social service
• information and statistics
• justice and legal services
• natural resources
• recovery act
• regional development
• science and technology
• research and development
• transportation

The entire above information goes to prove that not only the doctoral students, but students at all levels have a wide opportunity for furthering their studies to any level that they desire. There is no shortage of funding opportunities or organizations for all types and categories of students.

It just requires a little bit of research and action. This is not only encouraging to all who are considering further studies, but a very convenient way to acquire exactly the kind of degree one wants to and follow the career of their dreams.

Additional Information

More information on the grants available to doctoral students and other types of students may be found by referring to the links provided below.

Sources and links for further information:

• GradSchools.Com
• Doctoral Grants

36 Comments

I have searched from google website and I am expect that you are going to help me in persuing my postgraduate in appplied mathematics or computer Science.

I am seeking grants to obtain my Doctorate in Music Education. I am an African American Felmale who resides in Charleston, South Carolina.

I would like to obtain grants for my doctorate in business administration. I am an African American female from Maryland.

I was wondering if someone could help me to find information about obtainning GRANTS for my doctorate in business administration. I am an american citizen. I am trying to find an opportunity to go back to College School and get my Doctorate.

I am a senior citizen (African American) who is seeking a grant for my doctorate in leadership education.

I am a senior citizen. I am looking for some money. I would like to get my PhD. You mentioned Sallie Mae. Could you tell me about Sallie Mae. I would greatly appreciate your advise. Thanks.

I am a African American man (Adjunct Business Professor @ LeMoyne Owen College and Finance/Human Resources Manager for Southern Ave. Charter Schools) who is seeking funding or a grant for my doctorate in leadership education or business education.

I am a Master Student from Austria and want to apply for a Ph.D. grant, to perform a 4 year doctorial education in Sweden in the field of cancer research. Is there anyone who has experience within this field and knows about personal and NOT project dependent financing?

Thanks in advance!

Best wishes

I am an education specialist in Instructional leadership, and have exhausted all financial aid to finish my doctorate degree in Educational Research, please help me find a doctorakl education research program in Dallas, TX.

One of my friend is graduated from public healt department, but due to lack of financial support she couldn’t continiou her education, now she is looking for kind of grand or scholarship to improve her capacity in the field of public health.

looking forward for your answer

I would like to obtain grants for my doctorate in cardiac Nursing. I am a Nepalese female nurse from Nepal and doing p.hd in Nepal.

I have been admitted to Central Michigan University as of August 2011 to pursue my PhD in Mathematics but I coudn’t join because of the financial problems. I am from ETHIOPIA/Africa which shows that I am suffering due to financial constraints.

I would like to obtain grant for my Post Doctoral Degree in Library and Information Sciences. I am a female from Nigeria, Africa.

I am a South Sudanese, persevering in taking PhD by research, at Nkumba University in Africa. I have completed my first year of the three, having manged to pay my tuition. Please I need help to pay the remaining two years during my difficult data collection period. My area of study is, ‘ Integration of agriculture foreign investors and promotion of peasant communities. case study of selected investors in South Sudan.

I am a student of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria undergoing PhD in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering. My theses is on Reservoir Management in the conflict of climate variability. I am in the first year and has presented the topic proposal, I need the assistance to move forward in the practical aspect. Thanking you

I have a 17 year old daughter, who is starting her senior year in high school this fall. I am disabled due to a series of mini-strokes. My wife (seperated) passed away nearly 3 years ago. I am looking for ways to get my daughter Chelsee into college. Her real desire is to become a Veternarian. We reside in Colorado at this time. All comments and a help will be greatly appreciated

I am a white, 50 year old man, no special issues other than diabetes, a slight hearing disability from the military. I work full time but cannot take on more student loan debt. I have a Master of Science in Management and would love to complete my studies by obtaining a PhD in Business Administration. Unfortunately I see so many minority grants and such but nothing really for a person who has worked hard their whole life and trys to contribute to society. I had zero high school credits when I joined the military in 1979 and through hard work, I have done everything I could to further my education, all the while raising four children and working full time. Nobody seems to care for us middle aged white folks. I am no different than anyone with need, I just do not fall into any of the special catagories that offer assistance. I want to be someone that can help the world become a better place but it appears as if the Masters level will have to suffice.

I am looking for grants in doing my doctoral program as my financial aid is almost reaching it level. Besides, am presently under paid even thong I have a lot of responsibilities including meeting school needs. I will appreciate any help from anyone as am a poor man from a poor nation and family and the only educated in such family. Please help.

hellow, ikindly i would like to inform you i am an iranian educated student holdig Bsc in civil engg and also Msc in industial engg degree,i am acting as a n independent researcher in the field of construction management since i have more than 28 years of experience in civil engg construction industry involving with almost all sorts of contracts such as epc,bd,three bodies etc.as i have been holding a managerial position during my engagement in industry i would like to follow on with some academical independet research throgh some unversity ending with phd degree ,therefore i’ was wondering if you could provide me some financile support in due? with kind regards H.F.Vasheghani

I need a grant to pursue my PhD. I am a senior citizen do you have any advise?

I’ m seeking support in obtaining a Doctorate in the area of reading.

I am an african american women obtaining a doctorate in education but need funding for my travel.

i am an African student completed Masters in Business Administration i am seeking grant for pursuing Doctoral Programme of perfomance management .

I’m about to complete my masters degree in International Relations and conflict resolutios. I am planning to go for a doctoral research program, with a dream to join the world of academia in teaching. I have a strong teaching background and would consider it a noble job, which I wolud like to do the rest of my life. However, funding my education has become the biggest question. Could any educational institution, college , individual or organization consider my appeal, and assist to realize my dreams?

I am a female 20 year Air Force Veteran with a desire to help wounded warriors and other veterans having trouble adjusting to civilian life. I graduated suma cum laude with a BA in Social Science and minor in Psychology; and have a Master’s Degree in Human Resources Development. I utilized of all my military education benefits to complete my Master’s Degree. I recently took a job with a significant pay cut because my previous position was eliminated, and now I’m subject to the government furlough. I am very interested in information or assistance in obtaining a grant to pursue a doctorate in an area that would lead me to helping our military veterans.

I am a 56 year old naturalized US citizen who worked for about 2 decades while doing further studies in between, that is until diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009. I have 2 master’s degrees and want to do a doctorate in education so as to teach in the inner city (Chicago) where I have served in the past. I also want to train teachers in the area of critical pedagogy for community empowerment and development. I am basically bankrupt due to illness and treatment side effects for the past 3 years, now wanting to commence studies knowing that I am healthy at this point. What should I do as my search has yielded no positive results so far?

I am a third year PhD Student from Ethiopia. my research title is related to multiculturalism in Ethiopia. Am having Financial problem for my data collection process of the Dissertation. I am looking forward to any one interested in helping me accomplish my dissertation . i know that the research area am doing is of contemporary and relevant for my country and abroad. Thank you!

I am working on obtaining my DNP, and I need help.

I am trying to complete my PHd in accounting and have used up finanicial aid need help to finish paying my tutuion fees please.

Dear Sir/Madam I am a PhD student in Ethiopia specializing in Agronomy. Currently I already completed all the course work and left with Dissertation Research work and I am looking for research grants to complete my PhD. As it requires a lot of money because it involves field and Laboratory activities I couldn’t push it forth and I need your help to do it. I hope some one will reply to me soon.

I thank you in advance for you willingness and cooperation.

Kind regards!

I am Ali, a PhD student in Ethiopia in the field of Tropical Animal Production. Currently, I am conducting my dissertation study. But due to budget limitation, I can not progress well in my study. Hence, I kindly request to get a fund so as to complete pending activities of my study.

With Kind Regards

I am a South Sudanese base in Juba. I am a PhD student in International Leadership Institute in Addis Ababa in collaboration with the Bulacan University Philippine. I am in the second year Business Administration. I have a problem of paying my second year and research fees. Looking forward for help.

I am a Nigerian and a married PhD student of medical Biochemistry option in Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria, seeking for a grant to continue with my research which has stopped half way due to financial constraint. The research has to do with cardiovascular studies.

Am a PhD in Health Services Management and Policy student with Walden University, Baltimore, Maryland. Am at the advanced stage of my program with specialization on “Emergency and Disaster Leadership.” Have exhausted all my Stafford Loans. Now out of school until am able to raise fund to continue. Please advise and help.

I am retired senior male currently perusing a Doctoral degree in Computer Science -Cybersecurity concentration. I’m in my first year. Could you help me find any grants available Also I’m attending a 100% online university

I am a third year PhD student in Hydrology and Water Resources Management. I have plan to conduct research on the contribution of watershed hydrological response on leak sedimentation and eutrophication. please support me.

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31 Travel Scholarships, Fellowships, and Grants to Fund Your Next Trip Abroad

DO YOU HAVE A worthwhile project or field of study that involves traveling? If so, consider having your travels funded through a grant, fellowship, or travel scholarship.

Begin by contemplating where you want to go and potential projects you could build around those destinations. (Or vice versa.) Always wondered how sustainable agriculture works in Guam? How about local conservation practices in Central America? Once you have a clear vision of a travel / research project, begin looking for funding possibilities that give you the most freedom to pursue your goals.

When applying, take advantage of the resources and support systems you have. Your school, present or past, will have an adviser who can help you navigate the application process.

Writing grant proposals can take a lot of time, but good advice can help focus your efforts. Your school or area may even offer their own scholarship opportunities–talk to your department or your study abroad office.

Finally, even if funding from your school or other org close to home isn’t an option, you’ll find lots of other opportunities out there to fund your travel / project.

Major Grants

These are highly sought-after, competitive post-college grants that offer a full ride for a year or two of graduate study overseas.

Marshall Scholarship fully funds 2-3 years of graduate study in the UK. Open to US students finished with or finishing college.

Rhodes Scholarship funds two years of graduate study at Oxford. Includes full tuition and expenses and living stipend.

Fulbright offers year-long fellowships to American graduating seniors, grad students, young professionals and artists for study abroad or to teach English abroad. Program requirements vary by destination.

Watson Fellowship funds one year of independent research. $25,000. Open to graduating seniors from participating, small American colleges.

Program-based funding

These include grants tied to participation in the giver’s program, and can take various forms.

Institute for International Public Policy Fellowships is a five year program with study abroad component to prepare underrepresented minority undergrads for careers in international affairs. Open to US citizens or permanent residents who apply sophomore year.

Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowships multi-year program also for women and members of minorities underrepresented in foreign service. Open to US citizens to apply by Feb. of sophomore year. Foreign service commitment.

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a State Department program supporting study abroad. Up to $5000 offered to enrolled students with financial need.

Rotary Ambassadorial and World Peace Scholarships fund study and language training abroad for undergraduates and masters degrees for graduate students in international studies, peace studies, and conflict resolution to be completed at one of seven Rotary Centers. Ambassadorial grants from $11000 to $24000 depending on duration of study.

Fogarty-Ellison Overseas Fellowships in Global Health and Clinical Research from the NIH funds one year of clinical research training abroad. $25,000 plus $6000 for additional travel and materials expenses. Open to graduate students in health professions.

CIEE Scholarships offers several grants to participants in CIEE’s study abroad programs. Certain grants fund study in particular regions. Essay required upon return. Must demonstrate financial need.

AIFS Scholarships offer a variety of grants covering up to full tuition and airfare for individuals in AIFS programs.

SIT Scholarships fund participation in SIT program. $500 to $5,000. Based on financial need.

Hispanic Study Abroad Scholars reduces costs of Global Semesters programs. Open to students attending member institutions of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.

Institute for International Public Policy Fellowship is a multi-year program of summer institutes and study abroad. Funds up to 1/2 of junior year study abroad tuition. Open to underrepresented minorities.

Regional Grants

These grants are tied to study or travel in specific regions or countries of the globe.

NSEP David L. Boren Scholarship pays for undergraduate students to study in understudied areas of interest to national security. $8000 to $20000 depending on duration of study. Comes with federal government service requirement.

NSEP Boren Fellowship for graduate students. $12000 to $30000 maximum award. Federal service requirement.

Critical Language Scholarships for Intensive Summer Institutes funds study of a list of lesser-studied languages. Covers all program costs. Open to US citizens enrolled in a college or university.

The Killam Fellowships Program fund semester or academic year study in Canada. $5000/semester plus a travel allowance. Open to US or Canadian undergraduates.

George J. Mitchell Scholarship sponsors one year of graduate study at an Irish University. Funded by the US-Ireland Alliance. Includes tuition and stipend. Open to American citizens, ages 18 to 30.

BUTEX Scholarships offer $1000 for US students accepted to study at a member University of the British Universities TransAtlantic Exchange Association. Simple application due by September 1.

American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards for Study in Scandinavia offer fellowships of up to $23000 and grants of $5000 to fund study or research. Open to college graduates.

DAAD Fellowships from The German Academic Exchange offers a range of study and research grants to undergraduates and graduate students for summer or school-year study in Berlin.

Kress Travel Fellowships in the History of Art funds research in Europe towards dissertation. $3500 to $10,000. Open to American pre-doctoral students in art history

IREX Short Term Travel Grants Program Fellowships for researchers holding graduate degrees for up to eight weeks in Eurasia. Research must be broadly related to policy concerns.

Freeman Awards for Study in Asia supports study in Asia for students demonstrating financial need. $3000-$7000 based on the duration of study. Open to undergraduates with little to no experience in country of travel.

Bridging Scholarships are offered by the Association of Teachers of Japanese , to fund travel and living expenses for academic study in Japan. Grants range from $2500 to $4000.

Monbusho Scholarships available to current and graduated students between 18 and 30. Funded by the Japanese government. Short term exchange program of particular interest to current undergrad and grad students.

Huayu Enrichment Scholarship for Mandarin language study in Taiwan. Stipend of approx US$790/month. Open to overseas students who apply through their local Taiwan representative.

Halide Edip Adıvar Prize For current undergraduates who have not studied Turkey. $1000. Open to American and Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Other funding

Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants towards study abroad. $1000. Open to all students of universities with a Phi Kappa Phi chapter.

NSF: Developing Global Scientists and Engineers offers funds for international research and study to undergrads, grad students and doctoral students in science and engineering fields. Grant

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BRET Career Development ASPIRE Program

Gerber foundation – doctoral student research grant.

Posted by hagansa2 on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 in Announcements .

Spring: May 15, 2024

Fall: November 15, 2024

URL:   Research Grants – How To Apply – Gerber Foundation

Description:

Grants support mentored research to improve the nutrition, care and development of infants and young children from the first year before birth to three years of age. Projects should address  focus areas  on issues faced by care providers that, when implemented, will improve the health, nutrition and/or developmental outcomes for infants and young children. The Foundation is particularly looking for practical solutions that can be easily and rapidly implemented on a broad scale with a predictable time frame to clinical application. The grant is for one year.

Eligibility: Applicants must:

• Be PhD candidates, PharmD candidates, and other similar degree candidates in a residency or fellowship training program in the United States and its territories.
• Conduct the research at a tax-exempt, not-for-profit institution. Public governmental institutions such as universities are included in this definition.
• Not have received a K01 award from the National Institutes of Health.
• Projects need to be under the guidance of a mentor with the appropriate qualifications and experience.

Award amount:

• Up to $30,000 (inclusive of indirects) per project.
• Indirect costs are limited to no more than 10% of the total direct costs.
• No more than half of the total budget may be applied to salary for the developing researcher (including fringe benefits).
• The remainder of the funds are to be used for research-related expenses, including supplies.
• Up to $2,000 may be used for attendance at one conference to report findings resulting from the project.

If this information is out of date, please email [email protected] to let us know. 

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The Department of Political Science

Phd and undergraduate students win chloe center grants and awards.

On May 2, 2024, the Chloe Center for the Critical Study of Racism, Immigration, and Colonialism awarded two PhD students and two undergraduate students in the Political Science Department for their reserach and achievement.

• Ph.D. Candidate Sheharyar Imran was awarded the Outstanding Graduate Student Achievement Award for his contributions and achevements in the goals and values to the Chloe Center.
• Ph.D. Student Ga Eun Cho won a Graduate Research and Travel Grant for her research project titled “ To Make Leave or Let Stay : Mass Emigration and Development in South Korea.”
• Undergraduate Student Emma Petite was awarded the Undergraduate Research Excellence Award for her research.
• Undergraduate Student Angela Tracey won an Undergraduate Summer Reserach Award for her project titled “Filipino Diaspora: Unraveling Colonial Legacies and Military-Industrial Dynamics”

Congratulations, Sheharyar, Ga Eun, Emma, and Angela!

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6 ways to qualify for student loan forgiveness under biden programs.

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UNITED STATES - MAY 3: President Joe Biden in the East Room of the White House on Friday, May 3, ... [+] 2024. The Biden administration has approved upwards of $160 billion in student loan forgiveness, with another plan in the works. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

President Joe Biden has approved billions of dollars in student loan forgiveness for more than 4.5 million borrowers since taking office, mostly through a patchwork of interrelated reforms and executive actions. The administration also just unveiled a new plan last month that, if enacted, will provide even more relief.

But navigating these programs can be challenging for borrowers. Each federal student loan forgiveness program has its own set of rules and eligibility criteria, many of which overlap with other opportunities. Some forms of loan forgiveness may be automatic, while others require taking certain steps like submitting an application, consolidating loans, changing repayment plans, or even going to court.

Certain characteristics of the borrower or their student debt could be a basis for student loan forgiveness, possibly under a few different programs. Here are some of the big ones.

Time Spent In Repayment Can Qualify For Student Loan Forgiveness

Borrowers who have been in repayment for a very long time can potentially qualify for student loan forgiveness under several initiatives.

President Biden’s one-time IDR Account Adjustment program can credit borrowers retroactively with time toward their 20-year or 25-year loan forgiveness term under income-driven repayment plans. Borrowers who receive enough credit to reach the milestone for forgiveness would get an automatic discharge, while other borrowers would need to switch to an IDR plan to make continuing progress. Those who have Direct federal student loans and government-held FFEL loans can receive the benefits of the account adjustment automatically. But borrowers with commercially-owned FFEL loans had to apply to consolidate those loans via the federal Direct consolidation program by the April 30, 2024 deadline.

Borrowers who first entered repayment a long time ago may have another shot at loan forgiveness through Biden’s new mass debt cancellation plan that is currently in the works. The Education Department released draft regulations for this proposed new program last month. This new plan would discharge the federal student debt for undergraduate borrowers who first entered repayment at least 20 years ago, and for graduate school borrowers who entered repayment at least 25 years ago. The new plan is not available yet, but could launch by the fall.

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In some cases, borrowers can receive student loan forgiveness sooner than 20 or 25 years. Under Biden’s new SAVE plan, borrowers can qualify for a discharge in as little as 10 years if they originally borrowed $12,000 or less in federal student loans. That timeline increases by one year for every additional $1,000 borrowed. To qualify, borrowers must switch to the SAVE plan if they aren’t already enrolled.

Employment Can Qualify For Student Loan Forgiveness

A borrower’s job can also be a basis for student loan forgiveness, although this typically is in conjunction with time spent in repayment, as well.

Employees of nonprofit or government organizations can potentially qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The PSLF program can lead to loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments, the equivalent of 10 years. The Biden administration implemented two significant “waivers” — the Limited PSLF Waiver, and the IDR Account Adjustment — which temporarily relaxed PSLF rules and expanded access to debt relief. Going forward, PSLF is reverting to stricter rules, although new flexibilities for religious workers, adjunct faculty, and certain contractors are providing new pathways to loan forgiveness under the program.

Separately, the Teacher Loan Forgiveness program can provide up to $17,500 in debt relief after five years of meeting the program’s strict requirements while teaching at an eligible Title I institution. Federal Perkins loans can be eligible for profession-specific cancellation as well. However, for most borrowers with high federal student debt burdens, PSLF will often be the more valuable program to pursue.

Interest Accrual Could Be Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness Under New Biden Plan

Excessive interest accrual or capitalization is not currently a basis for student loan forgiveness under existing programs. However, Biden hopes to change this with his new debt relief initiative.

Biden’s new plan would eliminate up to $20,000 in interest for all borrowers who have experienced interest accrual or capitalization since entering repayment. Borrowers could receive even higher amounts of loan forgiveness if they are enrolled in the SAVE plan or other IDR programs and make $120,000 or less per year individually or if they file taxes as married filing separately, or $240,000 or less per year if they are married and file joint tax returns.

The new student loan forgiveness plan is not available yet. “We will publish a series of proposed rules around these plans in the coming months,” says the Education Department. “Once we have final rules, we will work to implement them as quickly as possible.” Officials have indicated that implementation is expected in the fall.

Hardship As Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness

Currently, there is no administrative discharge or loan forgiveness option for borrowers experiencing hardship. However, borrowers pursuing a bankruptcy discharge of their government-owned federal student debt do have a pathway to relief. New joint policy guidance between the Education Department and the Justice Department allows borrowers to demonstrate that they have an “undue hardship” within the meaning of the bankruptcy code by completing a detailed financial attestation form. This can streamline the process for requesting bankruptcy relief for federal student loan debt, which has historically been an exceptionally challenging process with dismal success rates. Borrowers should consult with a bankruptcy attorney for further guidance.

In addition, Biden’s new student loan forgiveness plan will also provide a path to relief based on hardship. The plan would “cancel student debt for borrowers experiencing hardship in their lives that prevent them from paying back their loans now or in the future,” says the Education Department. Officials have not published updated proposed regulations for this prong of relief. But the department is expected to unveil several factors that could suggest hardship such as age, low income, high expenses or debts, and eligibility for other means-tested government relief.

“Borrowers predicted to fall into default on their student loans would be eligible for automatic relief under the Biden Administration’s proposal,” says the department. “Borrowers experiencing other cost burdens could also receive relief through an application process.” Again, the application likely will not be available until this fall.

Disability As Basis For Student Loan Forgiveness

Having a significant medical impairment is already a basis for student loan forgiveness under the Total and Permanent Disability discharge program. The Biden administration recently updated the TPD discharge application to reflect new regulations that went into effect last summer. These new rules expand eligibility for the program, making it easier for borrowers to qualify. They also remove administrative barriers and automate relief in certain cases.

Separately, a borrower’s medical condition and disability status is also expected to be a possible basis for hardship student loan forgiveness under Biden’s new mass debt relief plan.

Attendance At Certain Schools Can Be Grounds For Student Loan Forgiveness

Borrowers who attended certain schools could also receive student loan forgiveness. And there are multiple pathways for this:

• Borrowers may qualify for automatic group relief — without having to request or apply for it — if they attended certain national for-profit college chains. These include Corinthian Colleges, ITT Technical Institutes, and, most recently, the Art Institutes .
• Those who submitted Borrower Defense to Repayment applications by June 2022 and attended one of several dozen approved institutions could get relief under the Sweet v. Cardona settlement.
• Borrowers not covered by automatic group discharges or the Sweet v. Cardona settlement can apply for loan forgiveness through the Borrower Defense to Repayment or Closed School Discharge programs.
• Biden’s new loan forgiveness plan will also provide for automatic discharges for borrowers who attended institutions that lost eligibility to participate in the federal student aid program due to poor student outcomes.

You can learn more about federal student loan forgiveness and discharge programs at StudentAid.gov.

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University of Central Missouri Among 51 Institutions Awarded American Passport Project Grants from Institute of International Education

By Janice Phelan, May 6, 2024

Funding removes financial barrier for students interested in traveling abroad by covering passport application costs.

UCM was among 51 institutions in the United States receiving the grants, offered through the Institute of International Education to support Pell-eligible students by opening the pathway to study abroad.

More than 60 percent of UCM students applying for a study abroad program do not have a passport at the time of application, said Matt Chiesi, the university’s coordinator for the Study Abroad Program. 

“This grant will support students who have interest in studying abroad to get their passport while they plan their future travel,” Chiesi added.

UCM’s grant totaled $4,000, and this is the first time the university has received the American Passport Project award. The funding will pay for all passport application costs for 25 students.

“We do anticipate awarding all 25 awards,” he said. “In fact, Dr. Roger Best (UCM’s president) has also promised to match these funds for an additional 25 students at UCM next year. The target is first-year students, whether freshman or transfer students.”

Interested students will apply for the passport funding over the summer and fall of 2024.

Chiesi praised Tiana Key, UCM assistant director, First-Year Experience, and the university’s Office of Sponsored Programs and Research Integrity for their assistance with the grant application.

Research shows that studying abroad can increase students’ overall engagement, provide a sense of belonging, expand their knowledge of cultural experiences and encourage their transition from their first year to second year, Key said. The grant, combined with UCM’s additional funding, will remove a financial barrier for a total of 50 students interested in this experience.

“I believe this free passport opportunity will be life-changing for many of our first-year students,” Key added. “I hope the students see this grant as an opportunity to take the first step toward participating in one of the many studying abroad programs at UCM and connecting with the larger global community.”

The American Passport Project represents the Institute of International Education’s commitment to creating access to international education opportunities and enabling equity by removing a financial barrier, thereby increasing the diversity and inclusion of students studying abroad. Through the project, the organization aims to grant 10,000 U.S. students their passports by the end of this decade.

Shown in photo: Student Alexis Swope in London.

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PhD student awarded grant, DCII summer fellowship

• Post author By 46797344
• Post date May 6, 2024

Lindsey McClure , a PhD student in the English Department, has been selected for the Dedman College Interdisciplinary Institute’s inaugural Graduate Student Summer Research and Writing Fellowship Program. She was awarded a $3,000 grant in support of her research. Congratulations, Lindsey!

• Tags DCII , dedman college , english , phd

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• UofL unveils new Center for Military-Connected Students

LOUISVILLE — Following a nine-month renovation, the University of Louisville unveiled its Center for Military-Connected Students that aims to better meet the needs of the more than 2,300 military-connected students enrolled at UofL.  

The three-story, 4,700-s.f. center at Brodschi Hall features a study room, lounge and meeting space, a lactation room and offices for five full-time staff. There is also flexible office space for support staff to assist military-connected students from the center, kitchenettes and ADA-compliant restrooms with a shower.

Outside, there is a 20-foot flagpole flying the American flag and a Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag and an ADA-compliant picnic bench.

The Center for Military-Connected Students was renovated using $600,000 in state funds . The Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs is using the center as a model for other state institutions, and the center has hosted visits from institutions as far away as California.

“This ribbon-cutting marks the achievement of a long-term goal of creating a dedicated and welcoming space to serve these students, who make up more than 10 percent of UofL’s student population,” said Kim Schatzel, president of UofL. “I want to thank Gov. Andy Beshear, state Rep. Kevin Bratcher and the rest of the legislature for providing the funding to enable this project. But even while we celebrate this achievement, we remain committed to continually improving how we serve this important population.”

The next phase of the renovation includes a dedicated space for UofL’s chapter of the Student Veterans of America, an additional study room and lending library in the basement. The basement will also feature a TV, pool table, and foosball table for students.

Among the center’s key functions include identifying and tracking military-connected students, policy advocacy, advising use of and processing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, and Military Tuition Assistance processing and residency coding. It also performs undergraduate admissions actions for currently serving members, veterans and dependents using VA education benefits, and advocacy and assistance for graduate admissions. 

The center, which moved into Brodschi Hall in October, was formed in 2022 by merging the Office of Military and Veteran Student Services (formerly part of Undergraduate Admissions) and the university’s Fort Knox campus (formerly part of the College of Education and Human Development).

Its goal is to improve UofL’s ability to address the academic, financial, physical and social needs of students who are active-duty service members, in the National Guard and the Reserves, are veterans or dependents or who are Army Reserve Officer Training Corps or Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets.

There are currently 2,356 military-connected students enrolled at UofL.

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