In the fall semester of 1999, more than 2,000 of 3,600 full-time graduate students received full or partial graduate assistantships, which include tuition support in proportion to the appointment. There are three types of assistantships. Graduate assistants help with grading and other types of instructional support.
Teaching assistants have course material preparation and instructional responsibilities.
Research assistants support faculty research programs. Assistantship stipends can vary from department to department and from college to college. Specific pay can be discussed with your academic department. Teaching assistantship appointments are typically for nine months. Research assistantships can be for 12 months.