Availability of funds is another consideration affecting the timing of graduate school. Sometimes employers will help fund the education of promising employees who are interested in studying to advance their careers. There are many sources of funding for graduate school ranging from scholarships and assistantships to corporate, military and personal funds. Remember that your needs are not limited to books and tuition. While you are investigating graduate school, be sure to explore the possibilities of funding from the academic department as well as from the university.
Individual departments award most graduate assistantships.
The question of assistantships vs. fellowships is an important one. On the face of it, fellowships look more attractive since they involve a grant of money without the hassle of teaching or research associated with them. However, in the long run, teaching or research assistantships may prove more valuable. In addition to money, they can offer publishing, networking, employment and r sum -building opportunities that the fellowships can not. For example, if you are working closely with a professor as her or his assistant, the professor may collaborate with you on publishing your research, may introduce you to colleagues in the field, write letters of recommendation or hire you for additional grant-funded projects.