The remuneration and work load are determined by the department and approved by the Graduate School. Occasionally, an assistant is allowed to accept less than or more than the 20 hours of work responsibilities. In such cases the stipend is adjusted by the department after approval by the Graduate School to reflect the overall balance of work and study during the term. These awards are made on the basis of the student's academic record, previous experience, potential to perform needed duties, and recommendations. Satisfactory performance of assigned job functions and the meeting of academic requirements are conditions for continued support.
Opportunities exist for additional work and study during the summer in many programs.
These awards provide tuition allowances and are not available in stipends. Many corporations, foundations, and individuals offer fellowships for graduate study at Rensselaer. A list of these scholarships is provided at the end of the graduate financial aid section of this catalog.