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Frequently Asked Questions About Assistantships
is an What is an assistantship?
An assistantship is a form of financial assistance for graduate students. A part of your compensation pays your tuition.
Where are assistantships available?
There are many non-teaching assistantships available in Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, and Athletics. Check the website at http://www.ilstu.edu/jobs for more information on available assistantships.
What do assistantships pay?
Most assistantships are either 10-month or 12-month appointments. Monetary compensation for assistantships is typically $750 a month, with variations in salary depending on position responsibilities and the amount of hours worked per week. Graduate assistants also receive a tuition waiver for each semester and the summer. Out-of-state graduate students also have out of state tuition waived.
What about student fees? Are they paid for as well?
All students at the University are required to pay student fees (see ISU Graduate Catalog for more information). All graduate assistants are also assessed a health insurance fee.
What are the work requirements for assistantships?
Work requirements depend on the assistantship. Typically, most assistantships require 10-20 hours per week of work. Working hours may also vary from week to week, depending on the activity in your department at that time.
Are there enrollment requirements to hold an assistantship?
Students who hold an assistantship must be enrolled for at least 9 hours during the fall and spring semesters and 6 credit hours over the summer. You also need to maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average to retain your assistantship.
How difficult is it to receive an assistantship?
There are a variety of non-academic assistantships available if you apply and interview early. Some assistantship positions are more competitive than others so not everyone will be offered their first choice position. If you are open to taking a chance on a different experience you may find what you are looking for at Illinois State University.
What is the best way to apply for an assistantship?
The Division of Student Affairs and the Department of Educational Administration and Foundations hold GRAD Days each March for potential students to interview for positions. Students can also check out www.ilstu.edu/jobs for assistantship opportunities and contacts at Illinois State University.