Learn more about our funding model and discover the various sources of financial support available to you.
$47,748
minimum annual stipend rate for PhD students, 2026–27
$46,356
minimum annual stipend rate for PhD students, 2025–26
PhD and Master’s Student Funding
TGS and its graduate programs offer a wide array of financial support for doctoral students, who are typically fully-funded for four quarters per year for minimum of five years. Master’s students may receive scholarships or a student loan. MFA students can also apply for fellowships and assistantships.
Fellowships and Grants
TGS provides support through endowed fellowships, private foundations and federal research grants.
Featured Fellowship
Students are nominated for the prestigious Presidential Fellowship by their graduate program. Presidential Fellows are students who promise to combine outstanding intellectual or creative ability with the capacity to play an important leadership role in their disciplines and beyond.
Assistantships
In addition to helping to fund your education, assistantships can enhance it. Students serve between 15-20 hours per week.
Taxes
All students must file annual tax returns. Students with fellowships, scholarships and assistantships must follow additional rules for reporting income and withholding taxes,
Financial Assistance and Help
Students can explore a variety of funding opportunities to address financial need.
Loans and Emergency Loans
Student loans are available to help finance the cost of education. For students in unexpected sort-term financial situations, an emergency loan may be possible.
Institutional Resources
Employment opportunities at Northwestern and outside the University are available to graduate students. Student-Veterans may also be able to claim veterans’ benefits.