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School of Biological Sciences

Financial Support

Funding Opportunities at Illinois State University

  1. Most graduate students in the School of Biological Sciences are supported by Teaching Assistantships (TAs) or Research Assistantships (RAs), or fellowships, which include a stipend and a tuition waiver.
  2. Admits to our M.S.or Ph.D. program are typically provided a TA or RA during Fall and Spring semesters, unless other support (e.g., fellowships) is available, providing acceptable progress in the program is maintained. However, you should not complete the online TA application form until after you have been admitted into our graduate program.
  3. Research Assistantships (RAs) are arranged through the faculty member directing your thesis or dissertation.
  4. TAs in the M.S. Program who are making adequate progress toward completion of their degree currently (Fall 2025) receive $1510/month for 9 months plus tuition waivers (see M.S. Program Policies for details). TAs in our Ph.D. program who are making adequate progress toward completion of their degree currently (Fall 2025) receive $2273/month for 9 months plus tuition waivers (see Ph.D. Program Policies for details). Opportunities for up to 3 months/year of additional support may be available for both M.S. and Ph.D. students through research advisors.

Additional Funding Opportunities