What a PhD Funding Offer Should Include

Most research PhD offers in the sciences and social sciences come with funding, but the details vary more than the headline number.

Read every offer for five things: the stipend amount and whether it's paid for 9 or 12 months; how many years are guaranteed; whether tuition and fees are covered; health insurance; and what you must do for it (teaching or research hours).

A stipend means different things in different cities. Our funding comparison adjusts stated stipends by the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis price index for each area, so you can compare an offer in a high-cost city with one in a lower-cost town.

Professional master's programs rarely fund students. MFA programs vary widely. Ask how many students in the incoming class receive assistantships.

Under the April 15 Resolution, most U.S. universities won't make you accept a funded offer before April 15. Use the time to compare, and ask questions.