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How PhD Students Get Paid

The most common questions (and biggest misconceptions) about getting a PhD revolve around money. Maybe you’ve heard that PhD students get paid just to study, or maybe you’ve even heard that PhD students don’t get paid at all.

It makes sense — how you make money as a PhD student is different from most other career routes, and the process can be highly variable depending on your school, discipline and research interests. 

So, let’s address the big question: do PhD students get paid? Most of the time the answer is yes. PhD programs that don’t offer some form of compensation, like stipends, tuition remission or assistantships, are rare but they do exist. On the other hand, some programs, like a PhD in Economics , are so competitive that unpaid programs are virtually unheard of. 

To help you gain a better understanding of PhD funding and decide if getting a PhD is worth it for you, here are some of the most common examples of how PhD students are paid. 

PhD Stipends

Most PhD programs expect students to study full-time. In exchange, they’re usually offered a stipend — a fixed sum of money paid as a salary — to cover the cost of housing and other living expenses. How much you get as a stipend depends on your university, but the range for PhD stipends is usually between $20,000 - $30,000 per year.  

In some cases, your stipend will be contingent upon an assistantship.

Assistantships

A PhD assistantship usually falls into one of two categories: research or teaching. 

For research assistantships , faculty generally determine who and how many assistants they need to complete their research and provide funding for those assistants through their own research grants from outside organizations. 

A teaching assistantship is usually arranged through your university and involves teaching an undergraduate or other class. Assistantships allow graduate students to gain valuable experience leading a classroom, and helps to balance out the university’s stipend costs. 

Fellowships

Fellowships provide financial support for PhD students, usually without the teaching or research requirement of an assistantship. The requirements and conditions vary depending on the discipline, but fellowships are generally merit based and can be highly competitive. Fellowships usually cover at least the cost of tuition, but some may even pay for scholarly extracurricular activities, like trips, projects or presentations. 

Fellowships can be offered through your university or department as well as outside sources. 

Part-time Employment

PhD students don’t commonly have additional employment during their course of study, but it is possible depending on your discipline and the rigor of your program. Flexible, low-demand jobs like freelance writing or tutoring can be a natural fit for many PhD students, and might be flexible enough to balance along with your coursework. 

All in all, it’s fair to say that though the form of payment may be unfamiliar, PhD students do in fact get paid. But keep in mind that while most PhD programs offer some kind of funding for students, it’s not guaranteed. 

Want to know more about how to pay for a PhD ? Explore our Guide to Choosing and Applying for PhD Programs . 

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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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PhD Salaries and Lifetime Earnings

PhDs employed across job sectors show impressive earning potential:

“…[T]here is strong evidence that advanced education levels continue to be associated with higher salaries. A study by the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce showed that across the fields examined, individuals with a graduate degree earned an average of 38.3% more than those with a bachelor’s degree in the same field. The expected lifetime earnings for someone without a high school degree is $973,000; with a high school diploma, $1.3 million; with a bachelor’s degree, $2.3 million; with a master’s degree, $2.7 million; and with a doctoral degree (excluding professional degrees), $3.3 million. Other data indicate that the overall unemployment rate for individuals who hold graduate degrees is far lower than for those who hold just an undergraduate degree.” - Pathways Through Graduate School and Into Careers , Council of Graduate Schools (CGS) and Educational Testing Service (ETS), pg. 3.

Average salaries by educational level and degree (data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2009-2011, courtesy of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce):

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports higher earnings and lower unemployment rates for doctoral degree holders in comparison to those with master’s and bachelor’s degrees:

According to national studies, more education translates not only to higher earnings, but also higher levels of job success and job satisfaction:

“Educational attainment – the number of years a person spends in school – strongly predicts adult earnings, and also predicts health and civic engagement. Moreover, individuals with higher levels of education appear to gain more knowledge and skills on the job than do those with lower levels of education and they are able, to some extent, to transfer what they learn across occupations.” - Education for Life and Work (2012), National Research Council of the National Academies, pg. 66.

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How Do PhD Students Make Money? Do PhD Students Get Paid?

A PhD journey is as much an intellectual endeavor as it is a financial one. With tuition fees, living expenses, and academic costs piling up, PhD students often find themselves seeking ways to supplement their income.

This article explores the varied avenues through which doctoral candidates navigate the financial challenges of their studies, from traditional stipends and assistantships to innovative side hustles.

Do PhD Students Get paid?

The short answer is yes, but there’s more to it.

Most PhD students receive a stipend, which is a fixed sum of money designed to cover living expenses rather than earning a salary like a traditional job.

Stipends come from various sources, such as:

• teaching assistantships,
• research assistantships, or
• fellowships.

For instance, as a teaching assistant, a PhD student might lead discussion sections or labs for undergraduate courses. This not only provides financial support but also valuable teaching experience.

Research assistantships are another common avenue, where students contribute to a professor’s research projects. This role aligns closely with a PhD student’s academic and professional growth.

Research Assistantships is also a good way for people to learn and hone their research skill, especially if they jump straight from a bachelor’s degree to a PhD.

Fellowships are usually merit-based and might cover tuition in addition to providing a living stipend.

However, the amount PhD students get paid varies widely by:

• university, and
• geographical location

Stipends in cities with a high cost of living often being higher, albeit sometimes not enough to cover all expenses. 

As a result, some students turn to part-time jobs, freelance work, or tutoring to supplement their income, though international students might face restrictions based on their visa status.

PhD Stipends

Many PhD students do receive stipends, a financial award intended to support their living expenses while they focus on their studies and research.

Unlike a salary from a full-time job, stipends are not compensation for services rendered but rather a form of scholarship to aid students during their rigorous academic journey.

Stipends are often funded through teaching assistantships, where PhD candidates might teach undergraduate courses or assist professors with their classes.

This not only provides financial support but also invaluable teaching experience in academia. Similarly, research assistantships allow students to work on specific research projects, often related to their dissertation, under the guidance of a faculty member.

However, the amount of these stipends can vary widely, influenced by:

• the university’s location,
• the field of study, and
• available funding.

In high-cost living areas, some stipends might barely cover basic expenses, prompting students to seek additional income through part-time work, tutoring, or freelance projects.

It’s worth noting that international students may face restrictions on the amount of work they can undertake, dictated by their visa terms.

Fellowships

Fellowships stand out as a significant source of funding for doctoral students. These fellowships are not just financial aids; they are prestigious awards that recognize the potential and caliber of PhD candidates.

Fellowships provide a stipend, which is essentially a financial grant designed to cover living expenses, allowing students to focus more on their dissertation and less on financial burdens.

Unlike assistantships that require teaching or research in return, fellowships often come with no strings attached, offering more freedom and flexibility in pursuing academic endeavors.

For instance, the National Science Foundation (NSF) offers Graduate Research Fellowships, highly coveted in the STEM fields. These fellowships not only cover living expenses but also include tuition remission, freeing students from the worry of educational fees. 

Similarly, the Ford Foundation Fellowship programs aim to increase diversity in academia, providing generous support to underrepresented groups.

Internationally, the Rhodes and Marshall Scholarships enable students to pursue doctoral studies at prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, offering a comprehensive package that covers tuition, living costs, and travel expenses.

However, securing a fellowship can be highly competitive, with selection criteria that often extend beyond academic excellence to include:

• leadership qualities,
• community involvement, and
• potential for future contribution to the field.

Part-Time Teaching Assistantships

For many PhD students, part-time teaching assistantships are a vital source of income and an integral part of their graduate education.

Serving as a teaching assistant, or TA, involves a range of duties from leading discussion sections to grading papers, all while juggling your own coursework and dissertation research.

This dual role offers not only financial support but also a valuable opportunity to gain teaching experience in academia.

Typically, TAs receive a stipend intended to cover living expenses, the amount of which can vary widely depending on:

• the university,
• department, and

Some might find this stipend sufficient, while others, especially in cities with a high cost of living, might need to explore additional income sources.

Beyond the stipend, many teaching assistantships come with the added benefit of tuition remission, relieving the financial burden of grad school fees. This allows PhD students to focus more on their studies and research without the stress of accumulating debt.

However, the number of hours a TA is expected to work can also vary, usually capped at 20 hours per week to ensure students have enough time to dedicate to their own academic pursuits.

Despite this, balancing teaching responsibilities with doctoral studies can be challenging and requires excellent time management skills.

For international PhD students, teaching assistantships are often one of the few work options available due to visa restrictions, making these positions highly sought after.

PhD Side Hustles – Earn More Money

Many PhD students are turning to side hustles to supplement their income. Beyond the traditional stipends, teaching assistantships, and fellowships, entrepreneurial PhD students are finding innovative ways to earn money while pursuing their degrees.

Freelancing emerges as a popular choice among doctoral candidates, especially those with skills in:

• data analysis, and
• programming.

Websites that connect freelancers with short-term projects offer a flexible way to earn money without conflicting with academic commitments.

A PhD student in computational biology might freelance as a data analyst, applying their expertise while earning extra income.

Tutoring is another common side hustle for PhD students. Leveraging their advanced knowledge, many offer tutoring services in their field of study or related subjects, such as statistics for social sciences.

This not only provides additional income but also helps in honing their teaching skills, valuable for an academic career.

Some PhD students venture into more creative side hustles, such as starting a:

• podcast, or
• YouTube channel related to their research or academic life.

These platforms can generate income through advertising, sponsorships, and merchandise sales, all while enhancing their public engagement and communication skills.

It’s worth noting that managing a side hustle alongside PhD commitments requires careful time management. Moreover, international students must navigate visa restrictions that may limit their ability to work outside their studies.

Can International Students Earn Money As A PhD Student?

PhD program can be particularly challenging for international students, given the constraints imposed by visa regulations.

However, it’s possible for international PhD candidates to earn money while pursuing their studies, albeit within certain boundaries.

Most international PhD students are eligible for on-campus employment, including teaching assistantships and research assistantships.

These positions not only provide a stipend to cover living expenses but also offer invaluable experience in teaching and research, integral components of academic professional development.

For instance, as a teaching assistant, an international PhD student might lead discussion sessions or assist in grading, while adhering to the stipulated number of work hours per week as dictated by their visa.

Fellowships are another avenue through which international PhD students can secure financial support. These awards often come without the work obligations tied to assistantships, allowing students to focus more intently on their dissertation work.

Moreover, internships, particularly those related to the student’s field of research, can offer both financial remuneration and practical experience.

Some doctoral programs have partnerships with industries that facilitate such opportunities, though international students must ensure these opportunities align with their visa stipulations.

While off-campus employment is typically more restricted, some countries offer provisions under which international students can engage in work outside the university.

This might include part-time jobs or internships related to their field of study, provided they o btain the necessary work authorization.

Students In PhD Program Do Earn Enough Money To Survive

PhD students employ a diverse range of strategies to secure financial stability while pursuing their studies. From engaging in teaching and research assistantships to exploring fellowships and embracing entrepreneurial side hustles, they demonstrate adaptability and ingenuity.

These financial avenues not only support their academic journey but also enrich their professional and personal development, laying a foundation for a versatile career path.

Ultimately, the journey to make money as a PhD student is intertwined with their pursuit of academic excellence and professional growth.

Dr. JW Ong holds academic degrees, including a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from universities in New Zealand, Malaysia, and the UK. He started PhDPursuits.com as a way to share the experience he wish he would have had known before embarking on his PhD.

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PhD, Professor, and Postdoc Salaries in the United States

The United States is home to several of the world’s best universities making it a top destination for international researchers. Here’s a breakdown of the most common American job titles and their associated average annual salaries. All salary statistics in this article are in American Dollars (USD) and are pre-tax.

PhD Student

A Master’s degree is not always required to do a PhD in the US. Several top universities offer direct entry PhD programs. An American PhD begins with two to three years of coursework in order to pass qualifying exams. During this time doctoral students are able to develop their research interests and hone in on their thesis topic. They will then write a thesis proposal which must be approved before they can start their dissertation. Most programs require PhD students to gain two to three years of teaching experience as well, either by leading their own class or as teaching assistants for a professor. It takes an average of six years to earn a PhD in the US.

Unlike some European countries, there is no mandated minimum salary or national salary scale for PhD students in the US. PhD students ear n between $ 15,000 and $30,000 a year depending on their institution, field of study, and location. This stipend can be tax-free (if it is a fellowship award) or taxable (if it is a salary e.g from a teaching position). American PhD students are usually only paid for nine months of the year but many programs offer summer funding opportunities. A PhD funding package will also include a full or partial tuition waiver.

After earning a PhD, many researchers go on to a postdoc. A postdoc is a continuation of the researcher’s training that allows them to further specialize in a particular field and learn new techniques. Postdoc positions are usually two to three years and it is not unusual to do more than one postdoc. There is no limit on the number of years you can be a postdoc in the US. The average salary (2023 ) for postdocs in the US is $61,143 per year.

A lecturer is a non-tenure-track teaching position. They often have a higher teaching load than tenure track-faculty and no research obligations. These positions are more common in the humanities or as foreign language instructors. Lecturers hold advanced degrees, though not always PhDs. The average salary for a full time lecturer in 2021-2022 according to the American Association of University Professors was $69,499.

Assistant Professor

This is the start of the tenure track. An assistant professor is responsible for teaching, research, and service to the institution (committee membership). Assistant professors typically teach two to four courses per semester while also supervising graduate students. They are also expected to be active researchers and publish books, monographs, papers, and journal articles to meet their tenure requirements. The average salary for assistant professors in 2021-2022 was $85,063 according to the American Association of University Professors . 

Associate Professor

An assistant professor who has been granted tenure is then promoted to an associate professor. An associate professor often has a national reputation and is involved in service activities beyond their university. The average salary for associate professors in 2021-2022 was $97,734 according to the American Association of University Professors . 

This is the final destination of the tenure track. Five to seven years after receiving tenure, associate professors go through another review. If they are successful, they are promoted to the rank of professor (sometimes called full professor). Professors usually have a record of accomplishment that has established them as an international or national leader in their field. The average salary for professors in 2021-2022 according to the American Association of University Professors was $143,823. 

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Do you get paid to do a PhD?

Study tips Published 17 Jun, 2022  ·  4-minute read

A PhD is a time-consuming gig. Planning, research and writing can easily fill the hours of your typical 9-5 job. But do PhD students get paid?

Yes and no.

Yes, you can secure a scholarship that provides a living stipend, which means you’ll receive a fortnightly allowance. No, it isn’t typically as much as you could expect from an entry-level, full-time salary straight out of your undergrad studies – but for many people, it is tax free. You can also supplement the living stipend with a top-up scholarship if you’re eligible.

There are a variety of ways to make a PhD work for you financially. Scholarships are the key component to this and can cover both tuition and living costs.

Let’s explore how you can secure a scholarship to help with day-to-day living expenses such as food, accommodation and bills while you complete your PhD.

How can you get paid to do a PhD?

There are 2 key types of scholarships you need to consider when undertaking your PhD:

• living stipend
• tuition scholarship

At UQ, the main scholarship program is called Graduate School Scholarships (UQGSS) – it covers the cost of your PhD tuition fees and provides a living stipend to cover the cost of living expenses while you carry out your PhD.

Another major program of scholarships at UQ are earmarked scholarships, which include both a living stipend and a tuition scholarship. Whether you’re eligible for this type of scholarship depends on the type of PhD you undertake – find out more about earmarked scholarships .

Living stipend

The UQGSS living stipend and tuition scholarship will help you cover cost-of-living expenses while you carry out your PhD. This scholarship:

• is open to both domestic and international postgraduate research students
• is inclusive of all study areas
• covers a 3.5-year period , with the possibility of an extension
• is only available to full-time students (with the exception of part-time students with special circumstances )
• provides  $33,641 a year (tax free) living stipend, paid in fortnightly instalments
• covers tuition fees.

However, while the UQGSS is the most widely used scholarship at UQ for PhD students, there are many types of living stipend scholarships – each with its own terms and conditions.

Search all living stipend scholarships for PhD students

At UQ, you will be asked if you would like to be considered for a living stipend scholarship when you apply for your PhD. UQ scholarships are awarded based on:

• academic performance
• evidence of research capability
• the quality of your research project
• the quality of your proposed research environment and advisory team.

Top-up scholarship

At UQ, a ‘top-up scholarship’ can provide you with additional funds during your PhD, on top of your living stipend scholarship. There are a variety of top-up scholarships you can apply for through UQ, many of which are focused on specific study areas (and even specific PhD topics ) or targeted at particular groups of people (e.g. international students or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students). Some of these offer travel and/or accommodation allowances on top of the funds provided for general living expenses during studies – a particularly useful addition for PhD students who wish to attend industry conferences or workshops to further their professional development.

Top-up scholarships can:

• only be used in conjunction with a living stipend (as long as they don’t exceed 75% of the stipend amount)
• offer an additional $5,000 – approximately $21,000 a year on top of your living stipend.

Browse postgraduate research top-up scholarships  

Top-up scholarships can be very competitive to secure, so it's essential to have a backup financial plan should you apply and not be accepted.

How much funding do you receive for a PhD?

Let’s look at a few of UQ’s top-up scholarships in conjunction with the standard Research Training Program living stipend amount, to see just how much you could be getting paid to do your PhD.

*All values are approximate and based on 2024 scholarships. Information is subject to change. See the scholarships website for the most accurate and up-to-date figures. 

Is it enough?

When approaching a PhD, it’s important to consider your financial situation realistically. Asking ‘do you get paid for a PhD?’ doesn’t quite cover all the logistics. Here are a few more questions to help you assess the situation:

• Can I live on $33,641 a year, or approximately $1,300 a fortnight? 
• Do I have the time to supplement my living stipend with casual or part-time work ? Will this extra commitment impact my studies?
• Will undertaking casual or part-time work breach the conditions of my scholarship?
• Am I eligible for any scholarships (top-up or other bursaries) beyond the living stipend?
• Is it worth applying to existing research projects, undertaking research in particular study areas or with certain supporting organisations, so that I may have a better chance of securing an available scholarship? Do these PhD projects/topics align with my interests enough to study for 3-4 years?
• Am I eligible for a tuition scholarship to cover tuition costs ?
• What’s more important to me – completing my PhD in 3-4 years full time and budgeting, or completing my PhD in 6-8 years part time while living comfortably?

Don’t forget that you don’t have to make this decision on your own. If you need help finding the right postgraduate research scholarship for you, or would like some advice, you can contact the friendly team at UQ’s Graduate School .

Want to know more about the ins and outs of your journey towards a PhD? Explore our complete guide on how to get a PhD .

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• About Graduate Funding

PhD Student Funding FAQs

General funding, what are the current stipend and tuition rates.

The current stipend rate can be found  on the About Graduate Funding pag e , and current tuition rates can be found on the Student Finance website . The stipend rate is set by the dean of The Graduate School (TGS) and the budget office, and approved by the provost. This rate is typically announced during the winter quarter for the following year. Tuition rates are set by the provost’s office and approved by the Board of Trustees each spring. These rates are typically announced during the spring quarter.

Who determines a student’s funding sources (e.g., whether a student will be paid on a fellowship or graduate assistantship)?

Each program determines on a quarterly basis whether or not students will be funded using TGS funds or other sources (e.g., grants). When TGS funds are used, the program determines if this will be through a fellowship or graduate assistantship for each student. Students should refer to their admissions offer letter or program staff regarding their individual funding.

Are PhD students responsible for paying any fees out-of-pocket?

A PhD student's funding covers tuition, stipend, health services fees and the annual health insurance premium.  Any other fees, such as the activity fee, are paid by the student.

How is a PhD student’s funding affected when registered for TGS 512 (Continuous Registration)?

Students do not receive funding (stipend or tuition scholarship) when registered for TGS 512 and are not eligible for the health insurance subsidy. In addition, they do not pay the activity fee and are not eligible for U-Pass. The current tuition charge for TGS 512 is $100/quarter.

Is PhD funding different for international students?

In general, international students are funded the same as domestic students.  However, international students must pass  TGS's English Proficiency Requirement  before they can be funded as a graduate assistant/TA. 

What other funding opportunities are available?

Additional funding opportunities may be available based on eligibility through  The Office of Fellowships , the  Evanston Office of Graduate Financial Aid  (loans),  Interdisciplinary Graduate Assistantships (GAships) , or  TGS Internal Fellowships/Grants . It is the student’s responsibility to obtain approval from their program and coordinate other funding opportunities.

How do external fellowships affect my funding?

Your Northwestern funding package will be adjusted when you obtain external funding. You do not receive external fellowships on top of your full Northwestern funding.

Are financial resources available for relocation/moving expenses?

What is the process when a phd student’s tuition/fees are financially supported by direct billing to a 3rd party sponsor.

If a 3 rd party sponsor, such as an employer or scholarship sponsor, pays for a student’s tuition/fees upfront and without any stipulations, then it may fall under third party billing in which case the Student Finance department can set up a third party billing plan and invoice the sponsor directly; however, before they can do this, the student would need to provide them with an official sponsorship letter. The letter needs to be on company/sponsor letterhead and it needs to include the following information:

• Type of charges that will be covered (tuition, activity fee, student health plan, etc.)
• Coverage period (for example: Fall 2021 or 2021-2022 academic year)
• Address/email address where invoice should be sent
• Address where any refund/overpayment should be returned

Funding timeline

How many quarters of funding does a phd student receive  .

PhD students in the Humanities and Social Sciences receive 20 quarters (5 full years) of funding. In most programs additional quarters may be banked through the fifth year and used in the sixth year (see banked quarters section below). PhD students in the Sciences and Engineering are typically funded for at least five years through a combination of funding by The Graduate School (TGS) and adviser/program funding. Graduate student funding is a shared responsibility. While financial commitments are made to PhD students for a set number of years, it is important to understand that the overall graduate funding budget is dependent on a significant number of PhD students obtaining external funding.

During what months/quarters are PhD stipends paid?

PhD students are paid year round including over the breaks while they are registered full-time (excluding TGS 512). Please note that the  funding quarters do not exactly match the academic quarters . For example, the first stipend payment for new students is for the period of 9/1 – 9/30 even though classes do not start until late September. Conversely, a student who graduates in the Spring quarter (completes in May) is paid through 5/31 even though classes run a couple of weeks into June. Students receive 3 months of stipend for each quarter although the timing does not exactly match the academic schedule. Below are the funding quarters:

• Fall: September – November
• Winter: December – February
• Spring: March – May
• Summer: June- August

Is the funding for each program customized based on average time to degree?

No. The University’s funding commitment is standard across all PhD programs. It is not tied to time to degree in order to maximize the funding available to as many students as possible.

What funding from The Graduate School is limited to a PhD student’s first five years?

Any TGS quarters of funding, outside of eligible banked quarters, such as interdisciplinary GAships, cluster quarters, and competitively-awarded fellowships, such as the Nicholson Fellowship, TGS Buffet Fellowship, Ryan Fellowship etc., are limited to a PhD student’s first five years.

What funding options are available to a PhD student after their fifth year?

At the home school’s discretion, eligible banked quarters may be used through a PhD student’s sixth year in the Humanities and Social Sciences. In addition, there is no limitation on funding from outside of The Graduate School, external funding from outside of the University, or scholarships related to external funding. In addition, TGS continues to provide research assistant scholarships (RAS), health subsidies, and tuition scholarships for PhD students with external funding beyond 5 years across disciplines.

When a PhD student graduates, when does their stipend end?

A PhD student will receive a stipend payout through the end of the month in which they complete/submit all degree requirements.

Banked quarters (humanities and social sciences PhD students)

Can phd students bank some of their funding to be used later .

At the home school’s discretion, most Humanities and Social Sciences PhD students may use up to 4 banked quarters to extend their funding through their sixth year. Banked quarters are earned in years 1-5 when a student is funded on quarters outside of their 20 allocated quarters from TGS, such as through interdisciplinary GAships, external fellowships, grant funding, etc. Please check with your program staff or dean’s office to determine if your program participates in banked quarters.

Are banking policies consistent between schools?

The Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences (WCAS) has a formal banking policy that is consistent across most programs. Currently, it is standard in most programs for WCAS Humanities and Social Sciences PhD students to use banked quarters through their sixth year. Please check with your program staff or dean’s office to determine if your program participates in banked quarters.

Additional income (e.g., Permission to Work)

In addition to their stipend, can a phd student perform additional work for pay.

In order for a student to perform additional work for pay, A Permission to Work form must be submitted before the work begins if any of the following thresholds are exceeded:

• Student will work more than 10 hours/week
• Time period of service is more than one month
• Compensation is $600 or more

PhD and MFA students may work no more than 20 hours per week from all sources, including assistantships. Students are responsible for verifying that additional work for pay is permitted based on their funding source (e.g., NSF GRFP, etc.).

Payroll and Taxes

Where can i find out information about payroll, i-9 forms, fnis, direct deposit, w-4s etc.,, why can’t federal taxes be automatically withheld from graduate student fellowships.

Even though graduate student fellowships are considered taxable income, federal law does not require taxes to be withheld, and the amount to withhold varies by individual. To help avoid a significant tax payment at the end of the year, students are encouraged to  complete a W-4 Form  and indicate an amount they would like Payroll to withhold from each stipend payment. Learn more in the  Taxes section .

Where can I receive assistance with filing my taxes?

Why can’t the student activity fee be automatically deducted from stipend payments.

There is not currently a mechanism in place across the multiple University systems to automatically deduct the student activity fee. If a student activity fee is not paid on time, a registration hold may be placed on the account and a late fee may be charged. Please be sure to check your student account in CAESAR every month.

Undocumented/DACA funding 

How are undocumented or daca students funded.

Undocumented students who are not authorized to work in the U.S. must be funded on fellowships for their entire tenure in the program. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, a.k.a. Dreamers) students who have work authorization may be funded on assistantships or fellowships.

Healthcare subsidy 

Who is eligible for the health care subsidy.

All TGS PhD students who are registered full-time (3-4 units), except for TGS 512, during the fall quarter are eligible for the healthcare subsidy for the full academic year (Sep 1-Aug 31). The subsidy is automatically applied during the fall quarter as long as the student is enrolled in the Northwestern health insurance plan.

More Assistance

Who should i contact with questions or issues related to my funding, who should i contact with questions or issues related to my student account in caesar.

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Phd stipends: all your questions answered, published by steve tippins on june 26, 2022 june 26, 2022.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 03:04 am

What are PhD stipends? When you enter a PhD program, you can also get financial support in the form of tuition reduction, free tuition, and PhD stipends. That means compensation for work you’ll do, such as teaching or being a research assistant. Typically, traditional, face-to-face universities and PhD programs—as opposed to online programs from non-traditional schools—will compensate you for being a PhD student.

Do All PhD Students Get a Stipend?

Not all PhD students get stipends. However, most students in traditional programs do get stipends because these are full-time programs that require full-time attention, if not more.

It’s very difficult to keep a job of any kind and be in a full-time doctoral program. In order to have students at an institution, the institution has to make up for the income students lose by not working. PhD students are valuable labor for institutions because it costs less to pay them to teach classes and do research support than someone who has already earned a PhD .

What Is a Good Stipend for a PhD Student?

The average phd stipend.

The average annual stipend in the United States ranges between about $23,000 and $33,000 per year. You’re not going to get rich as a PhD student on one of these stipends, but you can survive.

The Highest PhD Stipend

The highest PhD stipends that most students can get are around $30,000 to $33,000. Interestingly, stipends vary by discipline. The higher stipends tend to be in disciplines where it’s harder to find doctoral students or easier to find PhD jobs.  

Education or musicology will have a stipend below $20,000 on average, and there aren’t a lot of jobs for graduates in these disciplines. However, if you were to look at something like biomedical engineering, the stipend would probably be around $33,000.

There is a factor of supply and demand that goes into stipends, and these are averages across the US. They also vary slightly by institution.

Is a PhD Stipend Enough to Live On?

When you evaluate whether a PhD stipend statement is enough to live on, first think about where you’re going to school. Would $24,000 allow you to survive on your own in New York City? It would be really difficult to find someplace to rent under $2,000 a month. If you don’t have a strong desire to eat, maybe you could get by on something like that. 

On the other hand, if you are somewhere like Little Rock, Arkansas, where rent might be $600 a month, then you have $1,400 left for other things like food. It might be possible there. Many doctoral students share apartments and have roommates to make it easier to survive financially.

Can I Work While Doing a PhD?

You may be able to work a little bit while doing a PhD, though it’s very hard to have time to do much else besides focus on your degree. Some people come from previous jobs and can continue consulting. Some faculty members run consulting businesses and employ students to do more work than the stipend has them assigned to do. Just be aware that if you start making outside work a priority, eventually your stipends will go away.

Is a PhD Stipend Taxable?

We aren’t qualified to give tax advice, but in most cases stipends are considered taxable income to the doctoral student.

How Can PhD Students Earn Money Besides Their Stipend?

There are ways doctoral students can earn money outside of their PhD student stipend . Some doctoral students tutor students on the side. It used to be you could sell textbooks back to the manufacturer, but that’s become increasingly rare now that most textbooks are going electronic.

There are other opportunities like consulting based on previous contacts or working along with other faculty members to help them in their projects. 

In many cases, there are grants that you might receive in addition to your stipend. Apply for grants such as dissertation-writing grants or grants aligned with your demographic background or area of interest. Check with your institution’s financial aid office and with professional associations for grants.

How Often Is a PhD Stipend Paid?

PhD stipends are paid based on your university’s compensation schedule. If your university pays every two weeks, you’ll be paid every two weeks. If it pays once or twice a month, you’ll be paid once or twice a month.

Do PhD Stipends Increase Each Year?

Don’t count on a PhD stipend increasing every year. Universities have vast bureaucracies, and doctoral students are usually low on the pole of influence. If you get a stipend, assume that it will stay at that level. 

Be sure to also check the maximum duration of a PhD stipend. Some institutions have limits, so be aware if the limit is less than the average time it takes someone to complete a PhD.

Final Thoughts

A PhD stipend is a great thing. It allows you to keep living, albeit barely, while digging deep into your preferred area of interest. In most cases and locations, it’s high enough to subsist but low enough that you don’t want to hang around at that level for a long time.

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Do PhD Students Get Paid?

Starting your doctoral program brings with it plenty of exciting new questions. For instance, what classes will you take? What area of study will your dissertation focus on? What renowned faculty will you have the chance to work alongside? What fulfilling career will you pursue after graduation?

Another question you might be pondering: do PhD students get paid? The answer can look different depending on your unique financial situation, your school, and your chosen course of study. While PhD students generally don’t earn a traditional salary, there are a number of ways they may be able to financially sustain themselves while earning their degree, like pursuing paid fellowships, paid research opportunities, or part-time or freelance employment. 

Read on to learn the different ways you might earn money as a PhD candidate.

Teaching Assistantships

One of the most common ways that PhD students may be able to earn money while completing their degree is by working as a teaching assistant, or TA. Teaching assistants may be paid either through the Federal Work-Study program (as part of an overall financial aid package) or through institutional funds. 

Working as a teaching assistant can be an excellent way to get hands-on experience in the classroom, which may be helpful if you plan on going into the world of academia after graduation. As a teaching assistant, you’ll have the chance to work alongside experienced professors and deepen your own knowledge through pedagogy.

As a teaching assistant, your duties might include : 1

• Evaluating and grading papers and exams
• Proctoring and observing exams
• Leading seminars and discussions
• Meeting with students after class hours for assistance
• Assisting the professor with any administrative work or research related to the course

Paid Fieldwork or Research Fellowships

Many PhD programs require candidates to complete fieldwork or research as part of their coursework. Depending on what you’re studying, this could include:

• Supervised work with clients in a clinical setting
• Research in the field or in a laboratory
• Archival work
• Assistant work for professors or researchers 

Some of these programs can also be paid , but it’s important to keep in mind that these stipends are considered taxable income.

You can also look into applying to paid research fellowships. These fellowships can provide financial support while also encouraging PhD candidates to gain experience in underserved or understudied areas of research. For example, the American Psychological Association offers several different fellowships for doctoral candidates through its minority fellowship program, including: 2

• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Doctoral Fellowship – A doctoral fellowship that focuses on culturally competent training in behavioral health services for minority populations.
• Services for Transition Age Youth Fellowship – A doctoral fellowship that provides training in mental health services for ethnic youth between the ages of 16 and 25.
• Leadership and Education Advancement Program for Diverse Scholars – A mentorship and development program that focuses on building research and leadership skills in early-career scientists.
• Interdisciplinary Minority Fellowship Program – A program aimed at increasing the number of minority mental health providers while also improving mental health care for racial and ethnic minorities with mental or substance abuse disorders.

Research fellowships or teaching assistantships are more than just a way to pursue earning extra income– they’re also a great opportunity for building connections and earning hands-on experience that may serve you well once you’ve begun your career.

Part-Time Work

While you most likely won’t have the time (or the mental energy) for a full-time job as a PhD student, you might be interested in pursuing part-time or freelance work that can more easily fit into your schedule.

When searching for a part-time job, it’s important to consider work that you can easily balance against your rigorous coursework and study schedule. It’s also important to make sure you can still reserve time for yourself to relax and recharge. 

Some examples of part-time or freelance jobs that might be a flexible fit for a PhD student’s busy lifestyle include:

• Freelance writing or graphic design 
• Driving for rideshare services, like Uber or Lyft
• Bartending, waiting tables, or working as a barista
• Private tutoring for in-demand areas, like SAT prep or language classes
• Babysitting or nannying
• Walking dogs or house sitting
• On-campus positions, such as working as a library clerk
• Remote positions, like data entry or customer service
• Work that allows you to pursue an existing passion, like selling art on Etsy or teaching fitness classes

Earning Money as a PhD Student

While you might not be earning a traditional salary as a PhD student, there are still a number of avenues that you can pursue to earn money and gain new experiences. Whether you choose to spend time in the world of academia as a teaching assistant, in the laboratory during a research fellowship, or at a part-time job, there are options you can explore to supplement your income.

At Alliant International University, we understand that students are busy pursuing an income, as well as an education. That’s why we offer a number of flexible doctoral degree programs, so you can continue your education while maintaining your work schedule. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t wait— request information on Alliant’s programs today!

•  “Graduate Teaching Assistant Job Description, Salary | Resilient Educator.” ResilientEducator. 2020. https://resilienteducator.com/teaching-careers/graduate-teaching-assist… . Accessed January 30, 2022.
•  “Psychology Fellowships and Programs.” APA. 2021. https://www.apa.org/pi/mfp/psychology . Accessed January 30, 2022.
•  Sims, C., 2021. “My 11 part-time jobs made me a better PhD student.” Nature. January 13, 2021. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-00089-w . Accessed January 30, 2022.

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Is PhD for me

6 Reasons Why Do PhD Students Get Paid? (or why they should be)

If you are thinking about applying to a PhD program in the US, be sure to ask about the financial aid package that is available. A good stipend can make a big difference in your decision of where to attend.

Ph.D. programs now give stipends for various reasons. First, these stipends recognize students’ research efforts, helping attract the best minds in the competitive academic world. Second, by offering tuition waivers and stipends, they make doctoral studies accessible to more people, promoting diversity and innovation. Lastly, Ph.D. students play a key role in obtaining research grants, directly contributing to new knowledge and scientific progress. Even though stipends differ between disciplines and universities, they represent an investment in shaping the future of knowledge and the lively intellectual atmosphere of academia.

Its true that PhD life demands sacrifice and dedication, many programs offer stipends or salaries. This begs the question: why do universities pay people who are ostensibly learning, not earning? Well, the answer, like a good dissertation, is multi-layered.

So Lets discuss them one by one.

Table of Contents

1. research efforts deserve compensation.

PhD students aren’t just passive sponges sucking up knowledge. They’re active contributors to research projects, often driving them forward with fresh perspectives and tireless work. Imagine spending years meticulously collecting data, only to analyze it with the sleep-deprived passion of a squirrel on espresso. That’s the reality for many PhD researchers, and their efforts deserve more than a pat on the head and a “good job.” A stipend recognizes the value they bring to the research table, ensuring they can devote themselves fully to the project without the gnawing anxiety of rent day.

2. Attracting top talent demands pay

Universities compete fiercely for top talent , and in the realm of research, PhD students are the crème de la crème. Offering competitive stipends is an essential bargaining chip to attract the brightest minds and ensure they aren’t lured away by more lucrative private-sector opportunities. Think of it as an investment in the university’s future research prowess. Who knows, that brilliant student toiling away in the lab might one day be a Nobel laureate, and you wouldn’t want to have skimped on their ramen budget, would you?

3. Tuition waivers enhance accessibility

Money should never stop smart people from learning. When universities give tuition waivers and stipends, they make it easier for more folks to join Ph.D. programs. This opens the door for all kinds of people, no matter how much money they have. It means that even if you don’t come from a rich family, you can still add your smart ideas to the big pool of knowledge. This way, everyone gets a chance, not just the rich ones. And that’s a big deal for making sure we keep moving forward in understanding the world.

And guess what? Research agrees! Studies show that when universities are more inclusive with their financial help , they get a mix of different perspectives and ideas. It’s like having a potluck dinner where everyone brings a different dish – it makes the meal way more interesting! So, when universities say, “Come on in, money shouldn’t be a roadblock,” they’re not just being nice; they’re making sure we all benefit from a variety of smart brains.

4. Grants and Stipends Fuel Innovation

Research grants are the lifeblood of academic innovation. But these grants often come with the stipulation that they support PhD students, paying for their salaries and research expenses. In essence, PhD students become the driving force behind these funded projects, their work directly contributing to the generation of new knowledge and groundbreaking discoveries. Without these stipends, the pipeline of innovation would grind to a halt, leaving us all in the dark about the next big scientific breakthrough.

5. PhD students are valuable labor for institutions

Think about it – Ph.D. students do a lot for universities. They grade papers, teach other students, and even handle some office stuff. This helps the professors focus on their research. But saying Ph.D. students are just saving money is not giving them enough credit. These students are the future of universities, bringing in new energy, cool ideas, and different ways of thinking.

When universities pay them, it’s not just giving money; it’s like planting seeds for the university’s brainpower garden. It’s like having a team with players who each bring something special to the game. So, paying Ph.D. students isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s like saying, “Hey, let’s invest in making our university’s brainpower even more awesome!”

6. Paying PhD researchers is an investment in the future

Compensating Ph.D. researchers is like making a smart investment for the future. When universities pay these researchers, they’re not just handing out money; they’re putting resources into something that will grow and become more valuable over time. It’s similar to planting seeds for a strong and fruitful garden. In the same way, when universities support Ph.D. researchers, they’re making a wise choice that will benefit the university and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the long run.

Why PhD is still consider a risky career move? even after getting a paid

While the benefits of PhD stipends and overall funding are substantial, there are still legitimate reasons why some applicants see it as a risky career move:

Delayed Career Entry and Earnings: Entering a PhD program at around 22-25 years old translates to a delayed entry into the full-time workforce compared to bachelor’s or even master’s graduates. This delay means missing out on several years of potential career experience and salary growth. By the time PhD graduates enter the workforce in their late 20s or early 30s, their peers with less advanced degrees may have climbed significantly higher in their chosen fields. This can lead to a temporary dip in earning potential and make catching up in terms of seniority and salary somewhat challenging.

High Pressure and Demanding Workload: While stipends provide financial support, PhD programs are academically rigorous and demanding. Long hours, intense research, and pressure to publish can lead to significant stress and anxiety. Burnout is a major concern, and finding a healthy work-life balance can be difficult. The uncertain nature of academic careers, including the competitive job market and often temporary research positions, further adds to the pressure.

Uncertain Job Market and Career Paths: Even with a PhD, finding a secure and well-paying job is not guaranteed . Depending on the field, academic positions can be highly competitive, and non-academic opportunities may not fully utilize the specialized skills acquired during a PhD. This uncertainty about future career prospects can be daunting for those seeking financial stability and clear career progression.

Debt and Financial Burdens: Living on a stipend, even with tuition waivers, can be challenging. While not technically a “debt,” many students struggle to make ends meet, especially in expensive locations. This can lead to financial strains, side hustles, and difficulty saving for the future.

Personal Life and Family Considerations: Choosing a PhD path often involves sacrifices in personal life. Long hours, travel for research, and relocation can make maintaining relationships and building a family more difficult. This needs careful consideration for individuals with family aspirations.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a PhD is a personal one that weighs the aforementioned benefits against the potential risks. While stipend support significantly addresses some financial concerns, the delayed career entry, academic pressures, job market uncertainty, and personal sacrifices involved remain valid considerations for potential applicants. A thorough self-assessment of career goals, risk tolerance, and personal priorities is crucial before embarking on this challenging but potentially rewarding journey.

Remember, not everyone finds the traditional PhD path ideal. Alternative options like professional master’s programs, industry research positions, or directly entering the workforce can offer fulfilling careers without the same level of risk and sacrifice. Choose the path that aligns best with your individual values, aspirations, and risk tolerance.

Wrap Up: Why do PhD Students Get Paid?

While paying PhD students is essential, it’s crucial to acknowledge the existing disparities in stipends across disciplines and universities. We need to strive for greater standardization and ensure all PhD researchers, regardless of field or institution, receive adequate financial support to focus on their studies without undue financial burdens. Additionally, the workload expectations need careful consideration to prevent exploitation and ensure a healthy work-life balance for these valued members of the academic community.

In conclusion, paying PhD students is not just about charity, it’s about recognizing their vital role in research, attracting top talent, and fostering innovation. It’s an investment in the future of knowledge creation, and one that universities would be foolish to neglect.

How much do PhD students in the US typically get paid?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer! Stipends vary widely depending on several factors: Field of study:  Some disciplines, like STEM fields, often have larger research grants, leading to higher stipends. Humanities and social sciences may offer lower levels of financial support. University and funding source:  Public and private universities offer different funding packages. Private universities may offer better stipends, while public universities might rely more on teaching assistantships for income. Funding type:  Fellowships generally offer higher stipends than assistantships, but may come with specific research or teaching requirements.

Expect a range of $15,000 to $35,000 per year as a baseline, with some top programs offering up to $50,000 or more. Remember, these figures often come with tuition waivers, healthcare benefits, and other perks.

Do I need to repay anything?

Most PhD stipends and fellowships are considered financial aid, not loans. This means you don’t have to repay them as long as you meet the program’s requirements, like maintaining good academic standing and completing your degree. However, certain fellowships with specific research goals might have repayment clauses, so be sure to read the fine print.

Is PhD stipend enough to live comfortably in the US?

The adequacy of a stipend depends on your location and lifestyle. Housing costs, especially in metropolitan areas, can significantly impact your budget. You might need to factor in additional income sources through part-time work, teaching assistantships, or external scholarships to manage your needs.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

(Dominick Reuter) |

• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

• Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

Boston University Photography |

• Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

(Stephanie Diani) |

• Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

• Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

• Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

University of Minnesota |

• Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

• Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
• Ph.D. in international relations at American University
• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
• Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
• Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
• Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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Here's how much money 26 types of scientists make

• There are dozens of career specializations in science, but some are more lucrative than others.
• Physicists and natural-sciences managers were among the highest-paid professions.
• Here are 26 select science jobs ranked from lowest to highest median annual pay as of May 2021.

25 (tie). Postsecondary geography teachers had a median annual salary of $81,440.

Total number of employees in the US: 3,440

25 (tie). Postsecondary biological science teachers had a median annual salary of $81,440.

Total number of employees in the US: 47,690

24. Life scientists (all other) had a median annual salary of $81,500.

Total number of employees in the US: 6,820

This is a catch-all occupation category for life scientists.

23. Postsecondary environmental science teachers had a median annual salary of $81,980.

Total number of employees in the US: 5,440

22. Postsecondary forestry and conservation science teachers had a median annual salary of $82,330.

Total number of employees in the US: 1,180

21. Biological scientists (all other) had a median annual salary of $82,530.

Total number of employees in the US: 47,050

This is a catch-all occupation category for biological scientists.

20. Geoscientists (except hydrologists and geographers) had a median annual salary of $83,680.

Total number of employees in the US: 23,620

19. Hydrologists had a median annual salary of $84,030.

Total number of employees in the US: 6,390

18. Geographers had a median annual salary of $85,220.

Total number of employees in the US: 1,440

17. Postsecondary physics teachers had a median annual salary of $93,070.

Total number of employees in the US: 12,460

16. Atmospheric and space scientists had a median annual salary of $94,570.

Total number of employees in the US: 8,520

15. Medical scientists (except epidemiologists) had a median annual salary of $95,310.

Total number of employees in the US: 108,550

14. Statisticians had a median annual salary of $95,570.

Total number of employees in the US: 31,370

13. Postsecondary agricultural sciences teachers had a median annual salary of $95,910.

Total number of employees in the US: 8,570

12. Postsecondary anthropology and archaeology teachers had a median annual salary of $97,340.

Total number of employees in the US: 5,010

11. Postsecondary atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers had a median annual salary of $98,070.

Total number of employees in the US: 10,250

10. Nuclear technicians had a median annual salary of $99,340.

Total number of employees in the US: 5,360

9. Materials scientists had a median annual salary of $100,090.

Total number of employees in the US: 6,690

8. Data scientists had a median annual salary of $100,910.

Total number of employees in the US: 105,980

7. Biochemists and biophysicists had a median annual salary of $102,270.

Total number of employees in the US: 35,050

6. Physical scientists (all other) had a median annual salary of $104,100.

Total number of employees in the US: 19,680

This is a catch-all occupation category for physical scientists.

5. Mathematicians had a median annual salary of $108,100.

Total number of employees in the US: 1,770

4. Astronomers had a median annual salary of $128,160.

Total number of employees in the US: 1,930

3. Computer and information research scientists had a median annual salary of $131,490.

Total number of employees in the US: 30,840

2. Natural-sciences managers had a median annual salary of $137,900.

Total number of employees in the US: 74,760

1. Physicists had a median annual salary of $152,430.

Total number of employees in the US: 20,020

Method and data source

Depending on their specialization, scientists can earn a lot of money.

Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program, which provides an annual guide to median pay in the United States, we looked at the pay of different science or science-related jobs, including different science professors. We were especially interested in looking at those that are the highest-paying.

Physicists, computer and information research scientists, and astronomers were among the most lucrative careers, earning six-figure salaries.

The above slides are the 26 highest-paying jobs from our list of science and science-related jobs, such as mathematicians, ranked in order of median annual salary. We also included the number of people employed as of May 2021 from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.

Ivan De Luce previously contributed to this story.

• Main content

PhD Stipends

Welcome to PhD Stipends!

The purpose of this site is to share information about what PhD students in many disciplines at universities all over the US are being paid (i.e. income from stipends, fellowships, research or teaching assistantships, internships, etc.).

Please fill out the survey below to help add to our database and then check out the answers that other PhD students have provided.

Enter Your Stipend Skip to the Data -->

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Thank you for contributing to the database and enjoy perusing the data! After you submit your data, please share this website through social media so that a greater number and variety of grad students can contribute.

5 countries offering the highest PhD stipends

Did you know that as a PhD student, there is a difference between salary and PhD stipends?

This is just one of the many things you should know when deciding to do a PhD .

As the highest level of education, a Doctor of Philosophy or PhD can take anywhere from four to 12 years to complete .

Embarking on a journey towards a PhD is an intellectually rewarding pursuit, but it often comes with financial challenges.

So, how do students cope?

If you receive a salary, then you are likely an employee the school hired to carry out a job like leading a class.

Like most jobs, salaried workers get a set wage based on their hours and often have employee benefits like subsidised healthcare or compensation.

A PhD stipend is a financial support system for doctoral students to cover living expenses, tuition, and research costs during their academic journey.

There are three types of PhD stipends :

• Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs): For this, you are required to assist by delivering one or more courses over a number of years. You would also need to take on other responsibilities, such as marking student tutorials, supervising lab experiments, and providing support to undergraduates during office hours.
• Research Assistantships (RAs): In this role, you will assist a departmental professor with their research. If you are lucky, the said professor is your PhD supervisor, and their research (and the support you give) will relate to your own doctoral project.
• Stipend via Studentship: This is a non-repayable grant for doctoral students. Unlike the other two stipends, this one rarely has additional suits, but you must progress with your degree.

Have PhD stipends always been like this?

PhD stipends have a rich history that mirrors the evolution of higher education.

Our current understanding of a PhD originated in 19th-century Germany , but doctoral degrees were awarded long before this.

Over time, PhD stipends have evolved into a cornerstone of doctoral education, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of advanced knowledge.

Fun fact: The term “stipend” itself has Latin origins, coming from “stipendium,” which refers to a soldier’s pay.

This etymology underscores the idea that stipends are a form of financial support for individuals committed to advancing knowledge, akin to soldiers committed to a cause.

Sometimes, these PhD stipends are not enough.

At the beginning of this year, The Guardian reported about how PhD students in Australia were barely earning enough to survive.

“Through Melbourne’s winter, I know people forced into less than suitable housing who weren’t turning on their heat,” said Tara-Lyn Camilleri, who lobbied to raise the stipend at Monash University from 30,000 Australian dollars to A$37,000 while completing her PhD last year.

It was eventually raised to A$33,000, about A$4,500 less than the minimum wage after tax.

As PhDs can take years to complete, it is always easier to do one when you have money saved away instead of relying entirely on the PhD stipend.

Eric Schmidt, former CEO and Chairman, Google has a PhD in electrical engineering.

In fact, Forbes even released a list of the most popular PhDs among billionaires :

• Former CEO of Google Eric Schmidt (estimated net worth: US$16.2 billion), UC Berkeley
• The man behind Garmin GPS Min Kao (US$4.2 billion), University of Tennessee
• Cofounder, Chief Technology Officer and Chairman, Broadcom Henry Samueli (US$7.7 billion), UCLA
• Cofounder, Broadcom Henry Nicholas III (US$6.6 billion), UCLA
• Founder, D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P. David Shaw (US$7.9 billion),  Stanford University
• Co-Founder & Co-Chairman, Two Sigma David Siegel  (US$6.8 billion), Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• The man behind some of Microsoft’s most successful software, including Word and Excel, Charles Simonyi (US$5.2 billion), Stanford University
• Cofounder, Netscape Communications Corporation James Clark (US$2.9 billion), University of Utah
• Art Levinson (US$1.3 billion), Princeton University
•  Timothy Springer (US$2.1 billion), Harvard University

These are just some of the billionaires who have earned a PhD.

Fret not if you are not a billionaire yet. You can always apply to universities with the highest stipends.

The University of Vienna is a public research university located in Austria. Source: University of Vienna

Top 5 countries with the highest PhD stipends

• Average PhD stipend: US$104,328
• Average cost of living: US$1,705.67

Boasting over 50 institutions of higher education, it is no surprise that Austria is a top choice for a PhD.

Its rich cultural and academic heritage offers competitive stipends, with institutions like the University of Vienna leading the way.

This is because of the country’s commitment to academic excellence and research.

Universities often collaborate with international partners, contributing to a vibrant research community.

Government funding and a focus on supporting doctoral research contribute to the attractiveness of stipends in Austria.

Here are the most common PhD qualifications in Austria :

• Doctor of Arts
• Doctor of Economic Sciences
• Doctor of Medical Science
• Doctor of Natural Sciences
• Doctor of Psychotherapy Science
• Doctor of Technical Sciences

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by UvA: University of Amsterdam (@uva_amsterdam)

Netherlands

Average PhD stipend: US$74,163

Cost of living: US$861.45  to US$1292.17

The Netherlands, known for its innovation and research-driven culture, offers competitive stipends, with institutions like Delft University of Technology providing substantial financial support.

About 10 Dutch research universities are ranked in the top 200 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.

The Netherlands is also highly ranked internationally for the number of publications per researcher (second) and for the impact of research publication (fourth).

“The PhD salary in the Netherlands is one of the best in the world,” a former PhD says to Dutch News .

“In the UK, the salaries are just 1,000 pounds and PhD students need to work at weekends. I was able to buy a house while being a PhD student here.”

Here are some of the top universities in the Netherlands :

• University of Amsterdam
• Leiden University
• University of Groningen
• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
• Erasmus University Rotterdam

The University of Helsinki has one of the highest PhD stipends. Source: University of Helsinki

Average PhD stipend: US$46,537

Cost of living:  US$646.09 to US$969.13

Renowned for its high-quality education system, Finland offers competitive stipends, with institutions like the University of Helsinki providing substantial financial support.

Government funding often supports stipends in Finland, reflecting the country’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers.

Students are also encouraged to take ownership of the research in Finland.

Here are the top universities in Finland :

• University of Helsinki
• Aalto University
• University of Oulu
• Tampere University
• University of Turku

Universities in Denmark often offer industrial PhDs. Source: University of Copenhagen

Average PhD stipend: US$53,436

Average cost of living: US$11,45.62

Denmark strongly emphasises education and research, and the country’s social welfare system ensures that stipends are sufficient to cover living expenses.

The country also offers an Industrial PhD option if you want to conduct a research project with commercial perspectives.

Denmark is also popular for the balance of robust academics and a great living standard, giving international students the best of both worlds.

Here are the best universities in Denmark:

•  University of Copenhagen
• Technical University of Denmark
• Aarhus University
• University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
• Aalborg University

Average PhD stipend: US$42,618

Average cost of living: US$2,512.13

The land of innovation and Vikings beckons ambitious scholars with competitive stipends and one institution that stands out is the renowned Karolinska Institute.

Sweden’s commitment to pioneering research and its unique blend of modernity and tradition make it an alluring destination for those pursuing a PhD.

Most universities in Sweden offer salaries instead of stipends.

Here are some of the leading institutions in Sweden :

• Blekinge Institute of Technology
• Chalmers University of Technology
• Dalarna University
• Halmstad University
• Jönköping University
• KTH Royal Institute of Technology
• Karlstad University
• Karolinska Institutet

*All figures were converted as at the time of writing

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• PhD Salary in UK – Explained
• Funding a PhD

What Are PhD Salaries?

The average cost of undertaking a PhD in the UK is approximately £20,000 per academic year for UK students and £40,000 for international students. To help offset the cost of this, many students question whether undertaking a doctorate comes with a PhD salary.

The salary of a PhD student is governed by three factors: whether they’re assisting in undergraduate teaching, assisting in research, or have secured a PhD with a stipend. Depending on which of the three categories a student falls within, they will receive an income during their studies, however, the amount will differ by a substantial amount.

To help show you how you can fund your postgraduate degree and how much you can expect to earn whilst doing so, carry on reading below.

Types of PhD Salaries

There are three types of PhD degree salaries:

• Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) . In exchange for a salary, you’ll be required to assist in the delivery of one or more courses over a number of years. This includes, but is not limited to, marking student tutorials, supervising lab experiments and providing support to undergraduates during office hours. Besides this, you may have to teach a small section of the course itself. You can discover more about GTAs on King’s College London’s website.
• Research Assistantships (RAs) . In exchange for a salary, you assist a departmental professor with their research. In the ideal scenario, the professor you work with should also be your PhD supervisor and the research you’re asked to support with relates to your own doctoral project.
• Stipend via Studentship: A stipend is a non-repayable grant provided to doctoral students to help support their studies. A studentship covers a student’s tuition fees whilst a stipend covers a PhD student’s living costs. This includes outgoings such as rent, food, bills and basic travel. Unlike Graduate Teaching or Research Assistantships, stipends rarely have duties attached to them. The only expectation of receiving a stipend will be that you maintain continuous progress within your degree.

It’s worth noting these earning opportunities can be also be combined. For example, it’s possible to be a research assistant whilst also committing time to teach undergraduate students.

Average PhD Salary in UK

The average PhD student salary for teaching assistantships will vary depending on the level of responsibility you’re taking. However, to provide figures, past doctoral students have reported receiving approx. £10/hr for marking tutorials, £15/hr for leading laboratory sessions and up to £20/hr for leading undergraduate classes and tutorials.

The actual amount you can earn from teaching assistance will depend on the rate your department offers and the hours you can realistically take on. If you’re on a Graduate Teaching Assistantship programme, they will require you to dedicate a set number of hours per week. If you’re not on a GTA but would still like to earn an income through this scheme, you will likely need to commit several hours per week consistently. Although this can be a great way to earn whilst you study, you need to make sure you manage your time effectively as to not become overwhelmed by taking on an additional commitment.

The average salary for research assistantships will vary depending on the field of the doctoral degree you are enrolled in. Usually, these positions pay between £25,000 to £30,000 per year, however, it’s possible to come across positions which sit slightly outside of this. As a general rule of thumb, STEM assistors are paid more than non-STEM assistors.

In the UK, PhD students can receive a stipend which varies between £15,000 and £18,000 per annum. As part of the studentship your stipend is provided under, your tuition fees will also be paid for. UK tuition fees will vary between universities but are approximately £4,500 per year for doctoral courses starting in 2021/22 as per the UKRI recommendations .

Although £15,000 to £18,000 per year is the typical range for a stipend, some can be far greater than this. For example, Wellcome Trust , a research-charity based in London, offers an annual stipend of up to £23,300 and £26,000 for doctoral students located outside and within London, respectively.

Are PhD Salaries Taxed?

PhD stipends are tax free. Therefore, you don’t need to pay any income tax nor do you need to make any national insurance contributions. This means you’ll keep all the money you receive from an annual stipend. However, this is not the case for Research Assistants.

In the UK, Research Assistants are employed as university staff members and are paid a direct salary as opposed to a stipend. As a result, it will require you to pay tax on your earnings and make national insurance contributions.

To put this into perspective, for the 2019/20 UK tax year, you’re required to pay a 20% tax on any income above £12,500 but less than £50,000. You’re also required to make national insurance contributions of 12% of your weekly earnings over £166 but less than £962. This means that an annual Research Assistantship salary of £30,000 will equate to a take-home salary of £23,938 per year.

How to Get a PhD Stipend

To find research positions which offer stipends, we recommend you search our PhD database and filter by ‘funded’ positions.

Besides this, you can also secure a studentship from UK Research Councils or directly from your university as a scholarship. Independent organisations, such as charities and research trusts, and innovative firms within your industry also offer funding. You can read our PhD studentship guide to see how these work or our Where to find a PhD guide for further ideas.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Get a Research Assistantship PhD

Unfortunately, research assistantships opportunities aren’t as common to come across compared to PhD stipends. Besides this, when they are available, they’re predominantly in STEM subjects such as computer science and engineering. The reason for this is these subjects usually have access to greater research grants and have a greater volume of practical work available.

To find a research assistantship, we recommend that you contact the university departments who host the courses you’re interested in directly. This is because research assistantships help professors with their research, and while they may require help, they may not be openly advertising for it. They may, therefore, be able to create a role for you within their department or put you into contact with one of their colleagues who already has an open position.

International Students

It’s worth noting that international students will have a harder time securing a funded PhD position than UK ‘home’ students will. This is largely because there are usually fewer funding opportunities available to international students, which as a result also attract significant competition.

Besides this, if you’re an international student studying in the UK you will most likely than not be on a Tier 4 visa. Although a Tier 4 visa will allow you to work to earn an additional income alongside any studentship you may have, there will be certain restrictions on what you can and can’t do. For example, during term-time, you won’t be allowed to work more than 20 hours per week. For a full list of restrictions, please refer to the government website.

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Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

PhD Salary UK: How Much Do PhD Students Get Paid Compared to Graduates?

Considering whether to stay in university as a PhD student or to leave and get a job? If so, you may be wondering “How much do PhD student get paid?” and “How does a UK PhD salary compare to a graduate salary?” .

In this post I delve into the details and reveal that the difference in take home pay between a UK PhD stipend and a grad position can actually be much lower than it first appears!

If you’re looking to know how much a PhD could boost your career and salary after finishing your doctoral degree I’d suggest checking out my post: Is a PhD Worth It ?

I also have a complementary post covering my monthly expenses as a PhD student. You may also wish to check out my guide to the application process , PhD FAQs and article on how I got a PhD scholarship .

February 2024 : This post has been updated to include figures for the 2023/24 academic year.

Do PhD students get paid in the UK? If so, how much do PhD students get paid?

Before we delve into the details let’s first cover whether PhD students get paid in the UK. Generally, yes, most PhD students get what is called a PhD stipend to support themselves during their PhD. Importantly, a PhD stipend (in the UK at least) is tax free .

It is worth noting though that not all PhD projects automatically include funding. Funding may also not be applicable for every applicant. For example sometimes it may only be available to home students i.e. those from the UK.

Therefore some students may resort to self funding their PhD. In STEM subjects self funding a PhD is pretty rare and often only happens because of limitations in funding eligibility. I’ve personally worked with a mix of funded and self-funded (often by parents) PhD students, though most are certainly funded by grants and scholarships.

If your project doesn’t already include funding, for most people I strongly advise trying to find funding rather than considering self funding. For more information on this check out my post on PhD Funding in the UK.

2023/24 UK PhD Salary

• PhD salary outside of London: In 2023/24 most new PhD students in the UK will receive a PhD stipend worth at least £18,622 per year .
• PhD salary in London : In 2023/24 most new PhD students in London will receive an increased stipend to account for cost of living , which is typically around £20,622 per year .

Notice that the PhD stipend for outside of London is at least £18,622 per year. I’ve seen several advertised at the London rate. There are also some available at an even higher rate. For example I know of CDTs in Bristol paying more like £24,000 tax-free.

Your PhD stipend will usually provide funding for 3.5 years, although it can occasionally be for 3 or 4 years.

These values are for most PhD studentships including those awarded by all UK research councils following the UKRI guidelines .

Certain scholarship schemes pay upwards of £25,000 per year, such as the £25,150 (2024/25 rate) President’s PhD Scholarships at Imperial. For details on how to get such a scholarship, check out this article where I go over how I got awarded my own PhD scholarship.

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Innovative Training Network (ITN)  runs all across the EU. As well as nice training and exchange opportunities it pays a staggering stipend of approx £40,000 – £45,000 . The grant level is reviewed each year and increases if you have family dependents. I personally wish I’d known about it earlier and highly recommend anyone interested puts a reminder in their diary for when the next call opens!

Is a UK PhD stipend taxable?

Here is what PhD stipends look like compared to some fairly typical starting grad salaries in the UK:

At first glance a PhD stipend doesn’t stack up well against the higher wages of a graduate salary which can sometimes be twice this amount or more. But crucially PhD stipends for students are tax free !

There are a few other financial perks that come with being a student so I was intrigued to find out how the two salaries really compared. The results may surprise you!

Below is a high level overview and I’ll delve into each of the numbers in depth later in the post.

Grad salary vs PhD salary starting numbers

As mentioned earlier, in 2023/24 a typical PhD stipend outside of London is at least £18,622 . Within London this will typically increase slightly to account for cost of living to around £20,622 . These rates rise every year for new students, but do not rise for each year of the PhD. So for new students considering starting in 2024/25 a UK PhD salary will likely be around £19,100 outside of London. 

For the sake of simplifying the comparison I averaged the 2023/24 PhD stipend to £19,622 for all PhD students studying in the UK.

A fairly typical grad salary, for someone qualified enough to be considering a science PhD, is around £30,000 . Of course this is an average salary so needs to be taken with a pinch of salt. As the number can vary dramatically it may be considered too low by some, but I think it’s a good benchmark accounting for different regions of the UK.

I’ve included higher and lower graduate salaries too in the summary charts for this post.

Salary Gap: £10,378

On the face of it the PhD student would be earning £10,378 less per year: around 35% lower! This is enough of a difference to put off a lot of potential PhD candidates who’ve likely spent the last few years building up student loans.

But unlike normal wages, PhD stipends are tax free so maybe things aren’t as bleak for PhD students as it seems? Let’s explore how they really compare.

Income Tax & National Insurance Contributions

The 2023/24 Personal Income Allowance is £12,570. This means that you can earn up to this amount and not pay any income tax. Earnings from £12,571 up to £50,270 fall into the basic rate bracket of 20% tax.

PhD Student Salary: PhD stipends are tax free and incur no income tax or national insurance contributions. Remaining stipend: £19,622

Professional Salary: On £30,000 you’d pay £ 3486 in income tax and NI contributions of £2004 . Remaining wage:  £24,510

Salary Gap: £4888 Income tax and national insurance contributions have immediately almost halved the difference in take-home pay from £10,378 down to £4888!

Student Loan Repayment

PhD Student Salary: Even with a PhD stipend you are officially an unwaged student so you won’t make student loan repayments as a PhD student. Remaining stipend: £19,622 [see footnote 1]

Professional Salary: The amount you may have to pay for student loan repayments depends upon when you started your undergraduate course. If you started your undergraduate course since 2012 you pay student loan repayments on earnings above £27,295. Meaning on a salary of £30,000 you’d pay £243 a year on student loan repayments. If you began your undergraduate course before 2012, repayments start on salaries above £22,015 and would be £541 a year . Most of you likely completed your undergrad degree recently so we’ll go with the more recent, lower, repayments. Remaining wage:  £24,267

Salary Gap: £4645

Council Tax

PhD Student Salary: Another cost that students are exempt from is council tax. Though be careful if you share a house with non-students since council tax must then be paid on the property. [2] Remaining stipend:  £19,622

Professional Salary: Council tax varies greatly between council boroughs, and depends on the property you live in. For example in Cardiff I lived in a one bed flat and the annual council tax was £1050 per year. During my PhD in London council tax for a lovely three bed house  in Clapham it was £1000! Now that I live in Bristol it is over £2000 per year for a three bed house. I’ll go to the liberty of saying on average it would be £1150 per year and would be divided between two people: -£575 each. Total: £23,692

Salary Gap: £4070

Private Pension Contributions

PhD Student Salary: Although universities pay a PhD stipend to students, you are not a member of staff and hence do not make private pension contributions. Remaining stipend:  £19,622

Professional Salary: Legislation has been phasing in making contribution to private pensions mandatory. The upside is that employers match your contribution up to varying percentages: sometimes up to about 10% of your salary. Additionally there are tax benefits to contributing so overall you could see it as boosting your salary looking at the longer term view. [3]

I believe there are troubling times ahead for 20-somethings and personally am not relying on a state pension existing by the time we all reach retirement age. Therefore I wholeheartedly recommend making a decently sized contribution at least up to the same amount that your employer matches. For the purposes of this comparison I won’t deduct anything for private pension since it’s not really being deducted so I’ll call this one a draw.  Total: £23,692

Student Discount

Ah the obvious one! Student discount may have been the first thing you thought of when you saw this article, but I’m not going to include it in this analysis.

A student card does allow a significant amount to be saved, not only on luxuries such as entry to attractions and deals in shops but also travel. For example in London, an 18+ student oystercard gets you 30% off travelcards. For a monthly zones 1-3 ticket this would save about £50 a month: over £600 a year!

The reason I’ve not included it? How much you use student discount depends on your circumstances and lifestyle and I wanted to keep the analysis widely applicable. Also, there are ways around needing to pay for travel at all: I started cycling to university every day in London .

Curveball: the £12,570 Tax-Free Personal Income Allowance

So far the recent grad is still earning an additional £4842 per year: almost a third more than the PhD student. Owing to the fact that PhD students are exempt from income tax, national insurance contributions, council tax and student loan repayments the gap in earnings has shrunk considerably.

One last calculation I wanted to try was to consider the scenario of a student earning some additional money on the side. It is a common thing to make extra money with teaching assistant, tutoring and consultancy opportunities. In fact I think every PhD student I know does at least a little. There are of course non-academic routes to make additional money too.

I have written a post about some of the ways that I make extra money , many of which are in fact available to non-students. Do be careful to check that this is acceptable at your institution. My favourite way to make extra money is matched betting which is tax-free for everybody. You can find my complete guide to matched betting here .

Tax-free side-hustle

Currently you can earn £12,570 tax free in the UK . Given that the PhD stipend itself is tax free, unlike an equivalent worker you wouldn’t pay any tax on extra earnings up to this threshold. This might sound insignificant but it’s not.

Admittedly, unless you’re very entrepreneurial, it is unlikely that you would make use of the whole tax-free opportunity. But earning several thousand pounds per year on top of the stipend is certainly common.

As pointed out by a reader, John, in the comments below: a consideration should be that that some universities limit how much paid work you can do per month. Even so, there are lots of ways to make money and your time as a student could even be a great time to start your own business .

I’ve been paid more than £25 an hour doing pretty simple work for the university , so these earnings can mount up quickly.

To illustrate the extra earning potential afforded to PhD students, let’s consider the most extreme case where the tax-free earnings are maximised.

Since 2017 there has been a £1000 tax-free trading allowance for workers in the UK , meaning even those in a normal taxable job can earn £1000 on top of their salary from side-hustle jobs. Therefore the grad will pay additional taxes on £11,570 instead of £12,570.

PhD Student Salary: An enterprising student maxing out the tax-free allowance could earn £12,570 a year and pay no national insurance either, leaving additional take-home pay of  £12,570 . With a PhD stipend of £17,062 the student would in total earn £32,192 for the year. They’d keep 100% of those extra earnings.

Again, yes it is unlikely that someone would really earn this much on the side but it is common to make at least several thousand throughout the year.

Professional Salary: As a grad on £30,000 per year in your main job, to have an equivalent side-hustle earning £12,570, in total you’d pay tax on £41,570. Income tax would be £5800: £2314 higher than on their base salary of £30,000. NI contributions would be £3335: £1331 higher. Plus student loan repayments would be £1284: £1041 higher. Student loan repayments really start increasing considerably when you’re earning more. These additional taxes and costs total deductions of £4686,  leaving the professional with extra take-home pay of  £7884 . Including their day-job the total they’d be left with is £31,576 .

For this extra £12,570 of work, the student would pocket 100% of it and the professional would keep £7884 ( 63% ). Looking at the pre-tax difference in their earnings: at face value the student would be earning £32,192 and the grad £41,570: a difference of £9378. Yet once taxes are considered the final result is two people with remarkably similar take-home pays: a difference of £616 in favour of the student!

Check it out:

Under these circumstances the student would in fact take home £616 more per year than the professional! I used the maximum tax-free allowance to highlight the point and yes it’s unlikely that many students will fully utilise it. Yet the point stands that any additional earnings are much better retained by PhD students.

If someone was running a fully-fledged business on the side then the difference becomes even bigger as the grad salary approaches the next tax bracket for earnings of £50,271 and above, at which point the rate of income tax doubles.

There are very few legal ways of making money which are tax-exempt for everyone. One of these rare cases is also my favourite way to make money on the side: matched betting. Intrigued? I’ve written a huge guide to it here . In this rare instance none of the grad’s extra earnings get eroded by tax.

Grad salary vs PhD student salary conclusion

Starting from a difference of £10,378 in salary, taxes and other outgoings have knocked £6308 off the graduate’s wage. This brings the difference in earnings down to £4070. This equates to £339 per month. More than nothing, but not a huge difference. And this doesn’t include any extra earnings on the side which the student can do a much better job of retaining.

Surprised how small the difference is? I certainly was whilst I was writing this.

Here is a chart for comparing a wider range of salaries:

This analysis doesn’t take in to account the extra earning power that gaining a PhD could bring, nor the potential lifestyle benefits of being a student such as autonomy and flexible working hours which it could be argued level the playing field even further. Plus the opportunities afforded to PhD students, which everyone should seize. And yes, student discount if you use it.

Furthermore if you consider the opportunity to make an additional £12k+ per year before incurring tax  any difference in earnings can become close to negligible!

I hope that this post has helped explain that the wage gap between UK PhD stipends and grad salaries is not as dramatic it first seems. Perhaps it’s even encouraged you to consider a PhD. If so I’ve written posts to help with your application and an article on how to improve your chances of securing a PhD scholarship . Also if you’re curious you can read about life as a PhD student along with profiles of PhD students around the world .

If you’d like personalised help with your PhD application I am now starting to offer a small number of one-to-one sessions. Please contact me to find out more or click here to book a call.

What do you think about this comparison between a UK PhD stipend and grad salary? Do you think there are any additional factors that I have overlooked? Please share your thoughts in the comments below and if you’ve enjoyed this post you can subscribe to hear about more content:

[1] Some people might say that by continuing studying you’re simply delaying your student loan repayment.  Considering most people don’t pay it off in the 30 odd years until any outstanding balance is wiped I think it’s fair to say that this doesn’t ring true.

[2] No council tax is paid on a property if all occupants are students. If you live with one professional they can claim the single occupancy discount of 25% but with two or more professionals the full council tax amount must be paid. If you share in a mixed group it is up to you how you divide it within the group. Ironically given the spirit of this post, last year I voluntarily did pay an equal (third) share of council tax given that my partner was moving to London specifically to live with me…

[3] If you go on to work for a university after your PhD you’ll be enrolled in the USS pension scheme where you’ll usually pay in 9% of your salary and your employer pays in 19%: yes, nineteen! For comparison most often the best private companies may match contributions up to 10%. Pension contributions are often removed from your pay packet before taxes. This effectively leaves you with a smaller salary and hence pay less taxes and national insurance contributions. Between this and your employer’s contributions overall your salary could be “boosted” by quite a bit, around 20% in the USS example, if you consider the pension as part of your long-term salary.

All calculations were carried out using the tax calculator on Martin’s Money Saving Expert. A fantastic website for all things personal finance.

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17 Comments on “PhD Salary UK: How Much Do PhD Students Get Paid Compared to Graduates?”

It’s probably worth factoring in that most HEIs limit PhD students to a maximum I’m of 10hours pw of external work. By my rough estimate, the student would have to earn £25 an hour to make the money you’ve described here. The side hustle, should probably be halved to reflect a more typical salary. Still a fair whack though.

Hi John, yes that’s a good point and I’ll update the post to reflect this. In my experience £25/hour is realistic, at least here at Imperial, though I appreciate it would rarely get fully utilised. Thanks again

Hello Jeff! I am a Sustainability Consultant from India, looking at PhD opportunities in UK. It would be great if we can connect and discuss a bit about your experience and journey. Looking forward!

Hey Akhyata! Great, yes let’s have a chat. I’ve emailed you to arrange it. Best wishes, Jeff

Hi Jeff! I love your article, I’m a pharmacist juggling the idea of a PhD. I would love to take up on your offer to connect.

Hey Kai! Great, I’ll email you now to arrange it.

Hi Jeff, I am a law grad very interested in further study and pursuing a PhD.

I would love the chance to chat to you further about this article and your experience!

Thanks in advance

Hey Clara, Yeah no worries. I’ll send you an email now to discuss.

Hi Jeff, I’m putting together a PhD proposal at the moment and would really appreciate your input on a few things about the process when you have some free time. Cheers, Ben

Hi Ben, sure no problem, I’m happy to try and help. Let’s discuss over email.

Hi Jeff, Thank you for taking the time to write the articles you do. On this particular article, you have saved us all quite a lot of time. With such a minimal difference even without an additional income, it makes a lot of sense, especially with an increase when you graduate.

Those from the UK can take a £24k loan from the Gov (as if they didn’t have enough debt already). Still, it could enable a student to focus more on academia, speeding up the process and increasing the quality of work.

Apologies Jeff, the stipend and student loan are not available at the same time.

Thanks very much for your comments Tyrone. I’m pleased you find the website useful!

If you can get funding, I agree that there isn’t much of a reason to not do a PhD.

I must admit I’ve never looked much at postgraduate loans, in part because I encourage everyone doing a PhD (in STEM at least) to pursue funding. We’re doing PhDs which can help wider society and it doesn’t make sense for people to have to sacrifice even more by adding extra debt if they can avoid it. Interesting to hear that you can’t take out a loan if you have a stipend, thanks for letting me know.

Perhaps of interest to you, there is a post going live tomorrow which should put the length of a PhD in context of someone’s whole career. In short it doesn’t sacrifice much of a career but of course but make a very useful addition!

If there are any other topics you want to see covered please do let me know.

Best wishes.

Tax Free is not a perk. If you are not paying tax in the UK you cannot contribute to your pension. This may not seem important now, but it will later. This is especially important for mature students who can really lose out if there is a break in their NI contributions.

Thanks for your comment Marie.

The point is that normal tax-paying jobs don’t actually pay quite as much more than PhD stipends once you consider tax. I agree that over the long term avoiding paying taxes is neither a good idea because of things like pensions, nor is it socially ethical. But I don’t think there is any harm in taking 3-4 years out for a PhD:

You have to pay NI for a minimum of only 10 years to qualify for some level of state pension in the UK. After this the pension received simply increases linearly with the number of years of contributions, up to a max of 35 years. With retirement age edging up to 70 that gives at least 45 years between undergrad and retirement so most people will comfortably qualify (for now) for the full state pension. I’d argue that there is ample time to earn some tax free money as a PhD student without having to worry about making enough NI contributions. You can even voluntarily pay NI to gain additional qualifying years on your record. More generally I’d suggest also to not rely on receiving the state pension, I’m not personally betting on there even being a state pension by my own retirement (nor do I want to retire at 70+) so it’s always a good idea to build up your own private pension and savings too!

Hi Jeff, I was looking for funded PhD projects in the Marie Curie network and found a few on the EURAXESS website, but they all require a Master’s degree to apply. I was wondering if there is something I am missing or if you know where to find PhD funding opportunities in the Marie Curie network with only a bachelor’s degree. Thank you.

Hi Alex, thanks for your comment. I must admit I’m not an expert on all of the different Marie Curie funding routes available. If you’ve already done an extensive search then it sounds like yes they all may require a Master’s. By the way, when I first wrote this post I believed that all PhDs funded by UK research councils (UKRI) were at the very specific levels as mentioned in the post. However, I now know that there are some exceptions. For example, the Interactive AI CDT here at Bristol pays a stipend of £22,106: quite a bit higher than the standard non-London rate. CDTs such as this one include a foundation year and not everyone has a Master’s, so it may be worth considering schemes such as this. Best wishes, Jeff.

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Las borinqueñas remembers the forgotten puerto rican women who tested the first pill, dad always mows on summer saturday mornings, nature podcast.

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Playing it Safe: Explore the FTC's Top Video Game Cases

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FTC Refunds to Consumers

Explore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.

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• Specifically, the final rule provides that it is an unfair method of competition—and therefore a violation of Section 5 of the FTC Act—for employers to enter into noncompetes with workers after the effective date.
• Fewer than 1% of workers are estimated to be senior executives under the final rule.
• Specifically, the final rule defines the term “senior executive” to refer to workers earning more than $151,164 annually who are in a “policy-making position.”
• Reduced health care costs: $74-$194 billion in reduced spending on physician services over the next decade.
• New business formation: 2.7% increase in the rate of new firm formation, resulting in over 8,500 additional new businesses created each year.
• This reflects an estimated increase of about 3,000 to 5,000 new patents in the first year noncompetes are banned, rising to about 30,000-53,000 in the tenth year.
• This represents an estimated increase of 11-19% annually over a ten-year period.
• The average worker’s earnings will rise an estimated extra $524 per year. 

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Final Rule - Refunds and Other Consumer Protections

The U.S. Department of Transportation is issuing a final rule to ensure that consumers are treated fairly when they do not receive service that they paid for or are unable or advised not to travel because of a serious communicable disease. Under the final rule, U.S. and foreign air carriers must provide prompt automatic refunds and and ticket agents must provide prompt refunds upon request when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights and consumers do not accept the alternatives offered. This final rule also requires U.S. and foreign air carriers to promptly refund checked bag fees for significantly delayed bags and ancillary service fees for ancillary services that consumers paid for but were not provided. In addition, this final rule requires U.S. and foreign air carriers to provide transferrable travel vouchers or credits valid for at least 5 years to consumers holding non-refundable tickets for scheduled flights to, from, or within the United States who are restricted by a government or advised by a medical professional not to travel to, from, or within the United States due to a serious communicable disease.