askHRTGS Graduate Student Childcare Grant
Balancing the demanding work of parenting while attending graduate school can be daunting. Northwestern helps eligible graduate students by offering portable childcare grants.
Effective October 1, 2016 Northwestern offers portable childcare grants for eligible PhD and MFA graduate students affiliated with The Graduate School (TGS).
Complete TGS Graduate Student Childcare Grant application.
About the TGS Graduate Student Childcare Grant
- The childcare grant can be used for any licensed day care or in-home care provider.
- These grants are intended to provide fully-funded PhD and MFA graduate student parents some financial support to help with childcare expenses and to enable them to pursue their graduate studies.
- The childcare grant is designed to be flexible so that families can choose the type of childcare best suited to their needs.
- Only one grant may be awarded per household.
Eligibility requirements
- Active, fully-funded PhD and MFA degree candidates affiliated with TGS
- Combined family income is $130,000 or less. Verified on last years’ tax return or FAFSA
- For the care of children who are 13 years or under
- Must hold a valid visa and be eligible to receive income at the time of the award (if applicable)
- May not be receiving Northwestern childcare fee assistance through one of the center based programs
Subsidy amounts & limits
- $2500 for one child; $5000 for two children per year. Limit is two children.
- If approved, the awards are paid on a quarterly basis. Each quarter, the award will be $833.33 (per child).
Application Deadlines
- Summer Quarter (one-time supplement) - Thursday, July 7, 2022
- Fall Quarter – Thursday, October 6, 2022
- Winter Quarter – Thursday, February 9, 2023
- Spring Quarter – Thursday, April 6, 2023
Tax information
In accordance with the IRS regulations, employer provided dependent care assistance is considered taxable income. Childcare fee assistance for U.S. students must be reported when filing your U.S. tax return. Childcare fee assistance to nonresident students is subject to 14% federal taxation and reported on Form 1042-S. For more information, see IRS Publication 970, “Tax Benefits for Education” and IRS Publication 515, Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Entities.
Questions?
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For additional information, contact Devin Trezise in The Graduate School.