How do I pay for graduate school? – UW Graduate School Skip to content

How do I pay for graduate school?

Where Can I Find Funding for Graduate School?

Tuition and fees make up a large part of the cost of attending graduate school, but don’t forget about living expenses, travel, and other incidentals. These pages will help you learn about types and sources of funding as well as how and when to apply. It always helps to start thinking about funding and to take action early.

The Process

Identifying, applying for, and securing funding is a long process. Students are often surprised that they need to start looking for funding at the same time, or even before, they apply to schools.

Find Funding

You can begin by searching the various sources for funding both within and outside the university. Learn more about the various types of funding you might be eligible for in the links below.

Apply

Once you’ve identified potential funding opportunities, make sure you know the process, requirements, and deadlines. Many deadlines will be sooner than you might think, so be sure to start early.

Helpful Funding Videos

We’ve created a collection of both “nuts and bolts” and helpful tips from students and staff to guide you through the funding process.

Watch and Learn

Types of Funding

Every form of funding comes with its own set of requirements and expectations. Learn more here…

Assistantships

Assistantships are a form of paid academic employment in which students receive tuition reimbursement for the tasks they perform for faculty members, departments, or colleges.

Read More

Fellowships

Fellowships (also known as grants and scholarships) are competitive awards that generally do not require work in exchange for the funds. They are intended to fund academic study and research.

Read More

Loans/Works-Study

Student Loans are financial obligations that must be repaid. Participating in the Federal/State Work Study program is a way to help pay for your education while gaining experience by working part-time.

Go to the Career Center

On-Campus Jobs

The UW’s job and internship board, Handshake, features a constantly updated and rotating selection of campus positions available to current UW students. See what might fit for you.

Visit Handshake

General UW Employment (not work-study)

Additionally, students are welcome to search and apply for jobs available to the general public at the UW Hires website.

Visit UW Hires