A variety of funding opportunities are available to graduate students attending Binghamton University: Teaching/Graduate Assistantships (TA/GAs), Research Project Assistantships (RPAs), Fellowships, Graduate Traineeships (School of Nursing only), Adjunct Lecturer employment, and various other employment positions (including the federal College Work Study program). Questions regarding funding that are not answered below should be addressed to the Graduate School's Funding office at 777-2239. The Graduate School office is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. during summer months).
Required Paperwork
Terms & Conditions for Assistantship/Fellowship
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Terms & Conditions for Tuition Scholarship
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FAFSA/TAP Application
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I-9 Form
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Establishing New York State Residency If Not International Student
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Payment of Bill
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Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of Tuition Scholarships
Tuition scholarships are available to qualified students. They are by definition scholarships and do not require students to work in exchange for the payment of tuition. Currently all TA/GA and RPA positions who meet minimum stipend levels may qualify for a full or partial tuition scholarship. Federally funded Graduate Traineeships, all fellowship recipients, and certain externally supported students may also receive tuition scholarships.
All graduate tuition scholarship recipients are required to accept and agree to the specific terms and conditions stated below. No graduate student will be provided with a tuition scholarship without first signing and returning to the Graduate School the Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship. It is normally the graduate program's responsibility to obtain the student's signature and submit the Terms and Conditions to the Graduate School. A copy of the Terms and Conditions is provided to graduate programs early in each year (normally January or February) along with allocations. Departments may photocopy the Terms as needed.
Registration/Performance Requirements
Graduate students holding tuition scholarships are required to be registered full time in a degree program. To be registered full time, Level 1 (first-year students with a baccalaureate degree) and Level 2 students in terminal master's degree programs must register for 12 credits; Level 2 second-year students with only a baccalaureate degree in doctoral-granting programs, Level 3 (doctoral students with master's degree but not ABD) and Level 4 (ABD) students must register for 9 credits. Registration must be completed before the first day of classes each semester. Continuing students must register during the "advance registration" period. Students who resign assistantships/fellowships in mid-contract or who allow their registration to drop below full time may become liable for repayment of tuition scholarship awards.
Tuition scholarships are merit-based. Recipients of tuition scholarships must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0. A GPA lower than 3.0 results in probation; students on probation are not eligible to receive tuition scholarships. In addition, students must be making satisfactory progress toward degree.
Tuition scholarships will not be awarded for pursuit of multiple degrees at the same level, serially or concurrently, or for pursuit of a master's degree at BU when a student is currently, or has previously been, enrolled in a doctoral program at BU with tuition scholarship support.
Payment of Student Accounts Bill
Recipients of tuition scholarships are responsible for all mandatory student fees. Thus, even students with tuition scholarships are required to return their bills to the Office of Student Accounts prior to the due date stated on the semester bill. As an alternative, students may pay their semester bill on line using BUSI. Failure to pay the semester bill on time will result in late fees and penalties. Regardless of assistance by graduate programs with students' registration, registration, adding/dropping, proper credits and so forth are the student's responsibility.
TAP and Federal Financial Aid
All graduate students receiving tuition scholarships are required to apply for New York's Tuition Assistant Program (TAP) funds. This program provides tuition support for qualified applicants. Graduate students receiving a tuition scholarship will not be reimbursed for TAP funds; instead, these funds are used to reduce the tuition burden to the University (thus freeing up tuition funds for other graduate students). The first step in applying for TAP is to complete the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) form. The annual deadline for completing the FAFSA is March 1. Once the FAFSA is completed, New York State residents are automatically sent a completed TAP form (based on the information provided on the FAFSA). Students merely verify the information, sign the TAP form, and return it. Students who do not qualify for TAP need not continue to apply (or submit the FAFSA form).
All tuition scholarship support is used to establish financial aid loan and Federal Work Study eligibility. Students who have applied for financial aid assistance should be aware that a tuition award does affect the amount of loan eligibility. For more information about student financial aid eligibility or other financial aid related questions, contact the Financial Aid Office at (607) 777-2428 or email finaid@binghamton.edu.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The application for all federal student aid. This form is completed by the student and lists household and financial information which is used to calculate financial aid eligibility. See also the FAFSA page
New York State Residency
Tuition scholarship support normally covers tuition costs at the rate billed to New York State residents. Non-New York State residents must establish residency at least 12 months prior to the first day of classes for that given semester or pay the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition. To establish residency, visit the Student Accounts Office to submit an application. Students who wish to appeal their residency determination may file an appeal with the University Residency Appeals Committee (information available from the Student Accounts Office.) Exceptions to this requirement are made for students who are not eligible to become residents of New York State, such as international students on temporary visas (F and J) visas. Tuition scholarships are automatically paid at the out-of-state rate for these students.
Immediately upon arrival in the Binghamton area, it is the responsibility of the tuition scholarship recipient to take every appropriate action necessary to establish residency, so that he/she can be determined to be a NYS resident prior to the first day of the third enrolled matriculated semester. For the first two enrolled matriculated semesters, tuition scholarships are funded at the rate appropriate for the recipient's residential status (e.g., in-state or out-of-state). Beginning with the third enrolled matriculated semester, tuition scholarships are funded at the in-state rate and the recipient is responsible for payment of the difference between the in-state and out-of-state rates.
Limitations
- Masters' candidates may receive a tuition scholarship for a maximum of 4 semesters.
- Doctoral students who enter a graduate program with a master's degree in the same field may receive a maximum of 8 semesters of support.
- Doctoral students who enter a doctoral program with a bachelor's degree may receive a maximum of 12 semesters of support.
- Some graduate programs have additional limits.
Tuition for Overloads
Except where the graduate program specifically in writing requires students to overload, the tuition scholarship for Level 2, 3 and 4 graduate students will cover only 9 credits. Level 2, 3 and 4 students who wish to take more than 9 credits may be required to pay for all credits above 9.Level 2, 3 and 4 students may file the Petition to Overload for Funded Students form with the Graduate School. Decisions regarding such petitions will be made based on rationale for overload and the availability of tuition scholarship funds.
Out-of-State Tuition Appeals
Tuition scholarship recipients who are eligible for state residency but choose not to become a resident will be charged the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition.
As stated in the Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship, only in-state tuition is paid for domestic students and permanent residents after the first semester. Although the out-of-state residents who are US citizens or permanent residents are expected to file for residency immediately upon arrival, the domestic student's first semester will be covered by the tuition scholarship at the out-of-state rate. Thereafter, however, students with tuition scholarships will be required to pay the difference between out-of-state and in-state tuition. It is the student's responsibility to establish New York state residency in a timely way. For more details and appeals regarding in-state status, contact the Student Accounts Office.
Pennsylvania residents who commute to Binghamton University can file a tuition scholarship appeal petition with the Graduate School, if they can demonstrate that relocating to New York would be unreasonable. Exceptions for Pennsylvania residents are normally approved if the student can show that he/she owns property in Pennsylvania or has children attending a Pennsylvania school. If approved by the Graduate School, the Graduate School will cover both the in-state tuition and the difference between the in-state and out-of-state tuition for the tuition scholarship.
The NYS residency requirement for tuition scholarships is waived for international students who do not have the option of becoming NYS residents.
Teaching/Graduate Assistantships
The Dean of the Graduate School annually allocates a specific number of Teaching/Graduate Assistantships (TA/GAs) to each graduate program. These positions are funded by an annual SUNY allocation and all recipients are represented by the Graduate Student Employee Union (GSEU). Each TA/GA position (or "line") includes a base academic-year stipend and usually is accompanied by a full tuition scholarship for fall and spring semesters. Base (minimum) stipend levels are established by the Graduate School and vary by discipline. The GSEU-State of New York contract also sets minimum stipend levels.
Over 500 graduate/teaching assistantships are awarded each year to degree-seeking students (except students in combined degree or "3-2"/"4+1" programs). Award of TA/GA positions is merit-based and competitive. Assistantships provide recipients with an academic year (ten-month) stipend with amount depending on discipline and degree. TA/GAs may also be awarded a tuition scholarship. Full time Graduate/Teaching assistants are expected to work 15-20 hours/week during the term of their appointment (semester or academic year). Half-time assistantships typically require 10 hours of work per week.
Graduate Assistants (GAs) complete research and/or provide administrative aid. Teaching assistants (TAs) provide some type of classroom support, either by teaching, leading discussion sections, grading, or preparing classroom materials. Graduate Programs award stipends on a competitive basis, with academic merit the primary criterion.
Applicants to the Graduate School who wish to be considered for assistantships may apply by checking the appropriate box of the Graduate School admission application. No separate application form is required. To ensure consideration for fall semester assistantships, the University must receive all admissions credentials by February 1 (January 1 for the Clinical Psychology program).
The graduate program or school to which the applicant is seeking admission makes decisions on the awarding of stipends. The department or school notifies applicants as soon as possible after decisions are made. Assistantships to new and continuing students are made on a competitive basis, normally for a period of one academic year. The program's graduate committee determines the procedures and criteria for new awards as well as for the renewal of awards in subsequent academic years.
For students who receive assistantships, an offer letter will clearly provide the stipend amount, the appointment dates, and other important details about the appointment. To accept a teaching or graduate assistantship, the student must sign and return the Terms and Conditions paperwork in a timely manner. TA/GA positions cannot be "transferred" if a student opts to transfer to a different graduate program. TA/GAs have a responsibility to the program that has hired them to fulfill their teaching/research obligations to the hiring department. In the event of program change, the hiring department has the option of terminating the TA/GA position or of expecting the student to complete all obligations through the end of a given semester. TA/GAs contemplating a change of program should discuss such considerations openly with their TA/GA supervisor and the program directors for both programs.
TA/GA Title Designations
While designation of the title TA or GA is determined by the graduate program, it should be noted that both titles have implications for the Graduate School as well as the specific graduate program beyond the specific duties assigned. For example, TAs are credited with .250 faculty "full-time equivalency" (FTE); thus, four TAs are the equivalent of one faculty FTE. This affects faculty/student ratio, teaching loads, etc. TA lines need to appear in the course file and the resulting Course and Section Analysis (CASA) report. For this reason, TAs are expected to have teaching responsibilities that equate to 15-20 hours per week, while GAs who also contribute 15-20 hours per week do not normally have any teaching duties and are not entered into the course file.
Appointment of TA/GA Positions
Award of TA/GA positions is merit-based and competitive. Students must have >= 3.0 GPA and no outstanding Incompletes or Withdrawns. Awards can be made to degree-seeking students only and cannot be awarded to fast-track / combined degree ("3+2" or "4+1" students).
The GSEU requires that each graduate department post in a public area the specific guidelines governing the selection of recipients of TA/GA positions.
The assistantship offer letter normally includes two copies of the Terms and Conditions for TA/GA Employment, the Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship and the confidentiality statement. To accept the offer, the applicant must sign and return both sets of documents. Once the graduate department has received signed acceptances, it can then appoint the student to the TA/GA payroll and an appointment letter is then sent to the prospective student.
Once decisions are made about which students will receive TA/GA positions, the graduate program sends an offer letter to each individual selected. The decision regarding which students receive TA/GA positions is at the discretion of the graduate program. However, the students must meet the "terms and conditions" stated in the assistantship and tuition scholarships forms. Furthermore, level 1 and level 2 students should not be assigned as instructor-of-record, and graduate students should not be teaching assistants for graduate courses. The Graduate School abides by the Council of Graduate Schools Resolution stipulating that all offers made to prospective graduate students for the upcoming fall semester must remain valid until April 15 of the current year. No graduate department at Binghamton University should set an earlier deadline for offers to be accepted or denied. Any offers not accepted by April 15 may be rescinded and may be re-offered to other qualified applicants.
To appoint a TA or GA as an employee, payment must be arranged through the use of the Human Resources Smart Forms. This form should be completed by a trained Smart Forms user. This appointment form requests fairly comprehensive information about each TA/GA (which is required by the University's payroll system). In order to provide all information, graduate programs are encouraged to use the Student Information Form available from the Graduate School. It is recommended that this form be sent to prospective TA/GAs along with their offer letter, so that all information is available at the time of appointment.
In addition, the department/academic unit must submit to the Graduate School:
- One of the two signed (by the student) "Terms and Conditions for TA/GA Employment" (doc, 46kb)
- One of the two signed "Terms and Conditions for Tuition Scholarship" (doc, 62kb)
- One of the two signed "Confidentiality Statement" (doc, 30kb)
- One of the two "Student Information form" (doc, 132kb)
- A copy of the offer letter outlining the terms of the appointment (see examples).
Questions regarding the appointment of TA/GAs may be addressed to the Graduate School's funding office at 777-2239. Training for department staff members, who are new to appointing TA/GAs is also available from the Graduate School upon request.
You may also visit http://www2.binghamton.edu/human-resources/new-employees/new-gata.html for more detailed and up-to-date information on TA/GA employment
Stipend Amounts
In addition to Graduate School policies, TA/GA appointments must also comply with the stipulations outlined in the Graduate Student Employees Union contract. The minimum stipend that can be paid a TA/GA is $7,000 for academic year ($3,500/semester). This contract also stipulates that TA/GA positions cannot be divided into anything less than one-half appointments. In order to be eligible for insurance benefits, TAGAs must be paid a minimum of $4,002 per academic year.
All TA/GAs who are on the state payroll at the time a raise is negotiated will automatically receive the raise as stipulated by the contract. When these students are reappointed in subsequent years, they may not be paid any amount less than the amount they were earning at the end of the previous academic year.
Guidelines for Tiered Stipend Levels
For some graduate programs, the Graduate School-funded stipends vary by student level (coded as 1, 2, 3 or 4).
In this situation, the base stipend for Level-1 in the graduate program (e.g., $8,000 for the academic year) is paid to new post-baccalaureate pre-master TA/GAs. Level-2 base stipend is the same as Level-1 base stipend. Thus, the same stipend plus any GSEU-negotiated raise is paid to the Level-2 TA/GA.
When a student enters the university with a master's degree directly relevant to his/her graduate program, the student qualifies as Level 3. A new Level-3 student in a program with a tiered system of stipends will be paid the Level-3 base stipend for that graduate program (e.g., $9,000). If not in a program with a tiered system of stipends, then the student will begin with the base stipend for that program (ie. at Level-1 base).
When a student enrolled at BU has completed all requirements for the master's degree and is continuing in the doctoral program, the student becomes eligible for Level-3 base stipend if that graduate program has tiered stipends. However, the Level-3 base stipend is only applied at the beginning of a TA/GA contract (and must be stated in the contract). Contracts can only begin at the start of a semester. So if the student becomes eligible for Level 3 within a semester but his/her contract specifies a lower base stipend, then the Level-3 stipend will only apply for the subsequent semester if: a) the student has completed all of the requirements for the master's degree by the Graduate School's deadline for graduation for fall semester (the posted date is in January), b) the graduate program re-issues an offer letter stating the Level-3 base stipend and spring semester start and end dates of obligation, and 3) the graduate program notifies the Graduate School immediately of this change (prior to the Graduate School's deadline) and receives approval. It is the student's responsibility to meet the Graduate School deadlines; it is the graduate program's responsibility to complete and submit the paperwork on time to the Graduate School. Such a student starts at a new base stipend and thus any previous GSEU-mandated raise only applies to the prior Level-1 (= Level-2) base stipend. The Level-3 base stipend has built into it the concept that a student continuing from the masters to the doctoral program may have received a GSEU-mandated raise.
When a student is officially advanced to doctoral candidacy by the graduate program (i.e., the recommendation for Advancement to Doctoral Candidacy form has been sent by the graduate program to the Graduate School and approved), the student becomes eligible for the Level-4 (ABD = all-but-dissertation) base stipend (e.g., $10,000).
However, the Level-4 base stipend is only applied at the beginning of a contract (and must be stated in the contract). Contracts can only begin at the start of a semester. So if the student becomes eligible for Level 4 within a semester but his/her contract specifies a lower base stipend, then the Level-4 base stipend will only apply for the subsequent (spring) semester if: a) the student has completed all of the requirements to be officially ABD by the Graduate School's deadline of 15 January, b) the graduate program re-issues an offer letter stating the Level-4 base stipend and spring semester start and end dates of obligation, and 3) the graduate program notifies the Graduate School immediately of this change (prior to the Graduate School's deadline) and receives approval. It is the student's responsibility to meet the Graduate School deadlines; it is the graduate program's responsibility to complete and submit the paperwork on time to the Graduate School.
Such a student starts at a new base stipend and thus any previous GSEU-mandated raise only applies to the prior base stipend. The Level-4 base stipend has built into it the concept that a student may have received a GSEU-mandated raise.
This process in no way reduces the amount of funds that are used to support students. GSEU-mandated raises do not come from a separate source of money; rather they are paid out of the general stipend fund. Thus, the only way the Graduate School can budget for tiered stipends is to incorporate the concept of "seniority" increases to stipends in this way.
Dividing TA/GA Lines
Departments may assign more than one student to a given TA/GA line, splitting the line into a fall appointment and a spring appointment. In this case, the two appointees are each expected to maintain a full 15- to 20-hour/week workload during the semester appointed.
Dividing one line among four students (with each working half-time for only one semester) is normally not acceptable except in special circumstances approved by the Graduate School.
Supplementing Base Stipend Levels
Graduate programs that wish to increase TA/GA stipend levels may do so through supplemental salary increases paid from departmental resources. Normally these supplemental funds are charged to IFR or department accounts. It is, however, important to understand that any raises that are negotiated while these students are on the payroll will be negotiated based on the total amount the student is receiving. Thus, if a graduate department intends to supplement a graduate student's funding in a future academic year, it must be prepared to increase the supplemented amount by the amount of any negotiated raises. Graduate School allocations will cover only the portion of the raise attributed to the base stipend level.
Example: The base stipend for Department X = $8,100. Department X wishes to pay a particular student $9,000. Department X supplements the student an additional $900. If a GSEU raise of 3% is negotiated, the student's new salary level goes from $9,000 to $9,270. If the department wishes to appoint the student for the next academic year, the student must be paid $9,270. The Graduate School will support the student at the rate of $8,343 ($8,100 x 3%), and the department must supplement the student at $927 ($900 x 3%).
To supplement a TA/GA's stipend level, complete the TA/GA form, providing the base stipend amount in the "Stipend Amount" field. Then, use the comments section to describe the additional amount that is to be added to the base, the total stipend, and the account to which the supplement is to be charged. It is also the responsibility of the appointing department to create a Labor Distribution Schedule for each TA/GA. TA/GAs whose stipend levels are supplemented will have two lines in the Labor Distribution Schedule, one showing the Graduate School's portion of the payment and one showing the department's portion. The Graduate School's staff will follow up on all supplemented stipends to make sure that a Labor Distribution Schedule has been completed and that only the appropriate amount is charged to the Graduate School's stipend budget.
As an alternative to supplementing TA/GA salaries, the Graduate School does have in place a mechanism for allowing graduate programs to offer merit-based fellowships to graduate students. These fellowships can be provided at any funding level and are normally paid to the student in two lump sums. Fellowships can be paid to all full-time matriculated graduate students, whether or not they are also awarded a TA/GA position. Fellowships are not subjected to GSEU mandated raises.
For questions regarding supplemental stipends, please contact the Graduate School's funding office at 777-2239.
TA/GAs Supported by Other Sources
Departments may appoint TA/GAs in excess of their allocation provided they are willing to pay for the TA/GA position from departmental or IFR funds. To appoint a TA/GA in this fashion, use the same process for appointing TA/GAs as noted above; however, indicate in the "Comments" section of the form that this position exceeds the TA/GA allocation from the Graduate School and provide the source of the support (that is, a department stipend account or IFR account number). However TA/GAs cannot be required to provide additional services for additional funds, without prior approval of the graduate director and the Dean of the Graduate school. Because TA/GAs typically are providing services with 50% time plus taking courses and doing research, usually additional pay for additional work is not appropriate or approved.
Insurance Benefits for TA/GA
As members of the Graduate Student Employees Union, TAs and GAs are entitled to participate in a health insurance plan. However, enrollment is not automatic; eligible students must enroll for the plan using a form available from the Employee Benefits Office LS-G528.
Visit http://www2.binghamton.edu/human-resources/employee-benefits/index.html for more detailed and up-to-date information.
I-9s and Other Payroll Forms
Students cannot be placed on the payroll (or issued payroll checks) until they have completed a federal I-9 form
All graduate students working on campus must complete a federal I-9 Form. U.S. citizens must show two forms of identification (e.g., birth certificate, driver's license with photo, passport). International students must show current passports and visas. This must be done in person. Since the typical lag time from appointment of a TA/GA to first paycheck is nearly one month, the University encourages departments to emphasize the importance of the I-9 form to all of its prospective new TA/GAs. The I-9 form must be recertified any time there is a break in service (including summers). Returning TA/GAs who have an I-9 on file with the Human Resources Office will simply need to have the I-9 recertified; this can be done without student coming again to the office if the documents used to complete the original I-9 have not yet expired. However, international students must be present their original documents for recertification.
TAs and GAs must present identification and submit their I-9 forms to the Human Resources Office prior to beginning their assistantship duties. For more information, call the Payroll Office at 777-2122.
RPAs employed by the Research Foundation should present identification and submit their I-9 forms to the Research Foundation's Personnel/Payroll Office (AD 208).
TA/GA Registration Requirements
Teaching and Graduate Assistants (TA/GAs) are required to be registered full time in a degree program. To be registered full time, Level 1 first-year post-baccalaureate without master's students and Level 2 second year students in terminal masters programs must register for 12 credits; Level 2 (second-year without master's) students in doctoral-granting programs, Level 3 (with master's but not ABD), and Level 4 (ABD) students must register for 9 credits. Registration must be completed before the first day of classes each semester. Continuing students must "advance register".
TA/GA Employment Requirements
Recipients of Graduate/Teaching Assistantships are assigned duties in support of teaching or research. These responsibilities normally require, on average, between 15 and 20 hours per week. The specific duties of the assignment may be outlined by the graduate program but must fit within the more general University-defined TA/GA position definitions.
TA/GAs are committed on a full-time basis, dividing their time between their assistantship duties and the pursuit of a graduate degree. Recipients of Graduate/Teaching Assistantships may not simultaneously hold other appointments in the university, regardless of the source or amount of funding. In exceptional circumstances, a student may request to take on a minimal additional responsibility that will require no more than five hours of service weekly for a limited number of weeks. Such requests must be approved by the Graduate School. If approved, payment is from departmental funds paid through the Extra Service mechanism. To arrange for Extra Service payment, the on-line "Change Appointment Data" form must be completed from the HR Master Index. Use the comments section to identify the amount and approximate hours of extra service. Extra Service appointments also require the submission of Extra Service vouchers, which are sent to the Human Resources Office.
Renewal/Continuation of TA/GA Awards
Awards are renewed on a merit and competitive basis and are granted for a maximum of two semesters at a time. Renewal or continuation of Assistantship awards for second and subsequent semesters will be contingent on availability of funds and operational needs as well as on satisfactory performance of assistantship duties and satisfactory academic progress. Students must maintain a grade point average of at least 3.0 and not have outstanding Incompletes, or Withdrawns while on Graduate School funding. A lower GPA will result in probation. Students on probation are not eligible to receive renewed or new offers of funding. A GPA below 3.0 may also result in loss of this award. Eligibility for university funding is also limited by department policy.
Graduate School Policy on the Practice of Renewing TA/GAs Following a Break in Service
Graduate students periodically have breaks in their service as Teaching and/or Graduate Assistants. This document outlines the Graduate School's policy for determining the stipend level of a graduate student who has had a break in service.
Stipend level when no break has occurs: When a TA/GA is continued or renewed from one academic year to the next, the student's stipend level will remain the same in the next academic year as it was at the end of the previous academic year, including any and all GSEU-negotiated increases.
When a break in service of one or more semesters occurs: When a break in TA/GA service of one or more semesters occurs, the Graduate School may or may not reappoint the TA/GA to another TA/GA position at the salary level at which the student last earned prior to the break in service, based on the circumstances of the break in service, the availability of funds, and the operational needs of the academic department. When a student is reappointed following a break in service, the student will not be eligible for any GSEU-negotiated raises that occur during the break in service.
Withdrawal/Continuous-Registration (700)/Leave-of-absence/Severance: If a TA/GA voluntarily withdraws from all classes, by no longer attending, as formal Withdrawal or formal Leave-of-Absence, or only registers as Continuous Registration (700), or is severed by the Graduate School and is later readmitted to the Graduate School, the Graduate School will make no commitment to renew TA/GA appointment or pay the returning TA/GA at a salary any higher than the contractual minimum.
Termination of TA/GA Appointment
Should it be necessary to terminate a TA/GA appointment after a student has been appointed, it is the graduate program's responsibility to notify the Graduate School immediately of the termination. To terminate an appointment, use the Human Resources Termination Smart Form.
When a TA/GA position is vacated, the graduate program may decide to refill the position for the rest of the semester, as long as the termination date and beginning date for the new TA/GA do not overlap (thus avoiding paying two students on the same line at the same time). The new TA/GA is entitled to all stipend dollars not paid to the original TA/GA.
Only one tuition scholarship per semester per TA/GA line (position) will be provided by the Graduate School. Thus, when a TA/GA position is terminated, the graduate program may decide whether to allow the original TA/GA to maintain the tuition scholarship for the remainder of the existing semester or to transfer the tuition scholarship to the replacement. If a TA/GA's tuition scholarship is terminated, the student will be held responsible for repayment of the tuition scholarship. Note, however, that this assumes that the TA/GA registered and attended classes; no tuition indebtedness occurs if a student does not register.
Taxation of Stipends
Since the 1986 revisions to the tax laws, stipends for assistantships (TA/GA/RPA) and fellowships are considered taxable, although academic expenses may be deducted from fellowship awards. Graduate students receiving assistantship stipends must file a federal W-4 Form and similar NYS form in the University's Human Resources Office (if TA or GA) or the Research Foundation's Personnel/Payroll Office (if RPA) before employment begins. Unless other arrangements are explicitly made, withholding tax is deducted from all graduate, teaching, and research assistantships. Withholding tax is not deducted from fellowship awards, but fellowships are taxable, and recipients should consult with tax advisors.
Graduate Student Employees Union
Graduate students who are awarded state-funded teaching or graduate assistantships and who hold titles of TA (Teaching Assistant) or GA (Graduate Assistant) belong to the bargaining unit represented by the Graduate Student Employees Union (GSEU). Only students in these two categories are in the bargaining unit. Others--including graduate students on fellowships, externally funded internships, research project assistantships (RPAs), and interns --are not represented by a union.
Unit-Funded Teaching/Graduate Assistantships
Academic departments and administrative offices across campus may use a variety of sources (e.g., department or IFR funds) to appoint a graduate student as a Teaching and/or Graduate Assistantship (TA/GA), provided the assistantship duties fall within the University's description for such positions. Assuming minimal stipend standards are met (see "Salary Standards" below), students appointed as a TA/GA may be eligible for tuition scholarships for the term of appointment. These TA/GAs will be members of the Graduate Student Employees Union (GSEU) and will be eligible for GSEU health benefits, reduced parking rates, and other GSEU benefits.
Both Teaching and Graduate Assistants must be admitted as a degree student to a Binghamton University graduate program. Assistants must be registered full time and must be in good academic standing (with a GPA of 3.0 or better) throughout the period of employment. Appointees must also read and sign the Terms and Conditions for TA/GA Employment and confidentiality statement, which provides the complete requirements for employment.
Departments/administrative offices that wish to support a TA/GA must also be willing to comply with the salary standards set forth below (which comply with the GSEU contract). In addition, if a department/administrative unit wishes to continue the appointment of a specific student in future academic years, the department must be willing to provide support for all GSEU negotiated increases. (Historically such increases have been negotiated at approximately 3% to 3.5% annually.
Title Definitions
Teaching Assistant (TA): The primary focus of a Teaching Assistant (TA) is on classroom teaching. The TA will normally be:
- the instructor of record for one or more specific classes, or responsible for conducting laboratory or discussion sessions for one or more specific classes, or
- responsible for assisting the instructor of record in a large lecture class or a class that involves both lecture and discussion/laboratory sections
Depending on the program, TAs may also be asked to:
- assist faculty in classroom preparations and presentations,
- grade classroom assignments,
- provide individual student lessons,
- hold office hours to assist students in the class(es) to which the TA is assigned,
- assist in preparing tests and other class materials,
- conduct laboratory exercises.
Graduate Assistant (GA): The Graduate Assistant (GA) normally provides assistance to a graduate program or to faculty within the program. GAs are not normally assigned to a specific course. The GA may be responsible for any or all of the following tasks:
- hold office hours to assist and/or advise undergraduate students in the discipline,
- oversee general/public labs not related to a specific class,
- provide faculty with support in preparing publications,
- support faculty research efforts.
Time Commitments
TA/GAs supported by departments/administrative units will be expected to work the standard 15-20 hours expected of all other TA/GAs in academic programs. If fewer hours are required, students may be appointed as a half-time TA/GA. Graduate students are not normally permitted to work more than 20 hours/week during the academic year. In exceptional cases, TA/GAs may be paid extra funds through the Extra Service payment option. However, Extra Service should be used only for short-term extra duty; Extra Service cannot be used as a means of increasing the regular work week by more than 20 hours. Students receiving a tuition scholarship may not receive extra pay for extra work without prior approval of Graduate Director and the Dean of the Graduate school.
Salary Standards
In order to be eligible for a full (100%) tuition scholarship, Teaching and/or Graduate Assistants supported by departments/administrative units must be paid a minimum salary of $8,100/academic year ($4,407 for 20 hours a week of service). Exception: A small number of master's-only programs have base stipend levels below $8,100; the minimum stipend level for students in these programs is less than $8,100--contact the Graduate School's funding office (7-2239; 7-2061) for specific details.
Departments who wish to support TA/GAs at less than the minimum salary may opt to appoint students to half-time appointments. Half-time appointments must be supported at a rate of no less than $4,050/academic year ($2,025/semester) and are required to work no more than 10 hours/week. As noted below, such appointments will be eligible for a 50% tuition scholarship.
In order to be eligible for insurance benefits, TAGAs must be paid a minimum of $4,122 per academic year.
Appointing a Unit-Funded TA/GA
Once a suitable graduate student is selected for the TA/GA position, a TA/GA Offer Letter must be sent to the student. Included with the offer letter should be two copies each of the Terms and Conditions for TA/GA Employment, Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship and confidentiality statement. The student is then expected to accept the offer by returning a set of the signed documents. Once the acceptance is received, the student should be given the TA/GA Appointment Letter. The appointing academic or administrative unit is responsible for preparing and sending these letters to the students. Sample letters can be found on the Graduate School website.
Payment for Unit-Funded Graduate Assistants must be arranged through the use of the Human Resources Smart Forms. This form should be completed by a trained Smart Forms user. See the Step-by-Step Guide below for specific details.
In addition, the department/academic unit must submit to the Graduate School:
- A set of signed (by the student) "Terms and Conditions for TA/GA Employment"
- A set of signed "Terms and Conditions for Tuition Scholarship"
- Confidentiality statement
- A copy of the offer letter outlining the terms of the appointment (see examples).
It will be the responsibility of the appointing program/administrative unit to complete a Labor Distribution Schedule for all TA/GAs who are appointed. See the Step-by-Step Guide below for specific details.
Changing/Terminating a Unit-Funded TA/GA
Should the department/academic unit wish to terminate a TA/GA or change information regarding the appointment, the Human Resource change or termination Smart Forms should be used.
Research Project Assistantships (RPAs)
Grant funding provides support in the form of Research Project Assistants (RPAs). RPAs are normally provided an academic-year (ten-month) stipend with the amount determined by the grant supervisor. RPAs may be eligible for a tuition scholarship. RPAs also work approximately 15-20 hours/week on research.
RPAs are selected by the graduate program using the same criterion as is used for selecting GA/TAs. All students who check the request for support box on the graduate application will be considered for RPA positions as well as TA/GA positions. To be eligible, the student must meet the basic criteria for TAGA appointment, including full-time registration in a degree program and GPA > 3.0.
Graduate students supported by grant and contract monies that flow through the Research Foundation may be eligible for a full tuition scholarship provided that the students' academic achievement, and the students' stipends, meet the minimum standards established by the Graduate School, and the grant or contract PI has complied with the Tuition Scholarship Reimbursement Policy for Grants and Contracts. All tuition scholarships paid to graduate Research Project Assistants (RPAs) are paid via the Graduate School's tuition scholarship allocation; thus, all RPAs must meet The Graduate School's Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of Tuition Scholarship in order to receive a tuition scholarship. Tuition scholarships are merit-based and competitive. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better, have no outstanding Incompletes, no Withdrawns while supported by Graduate School funds, be in good academic standing, and making good progress toward the degree.
In order to be eligible for tuition scholarship, RPAs must be paid stipends of at least $8,100/academic year (or $4,407 for 20 hours a week of service). (When the TA/GA base stipend in the student's major is less than $8,100, the base stipend level for the program is the minimum stipend.) RPAs paid at least $4,050/academic year (or $2,025 per semester), but less than the base stipend in their major field, may be eligible for a partial (50%) tuition scholarship.
The tuition scholarship benefit is available only when the support monies are paid through the Research Foundation, or when grant was submitted, the PI petitioned the Graduate School successfully for an exception from the Tuition Scholarship Reimbursement Policy for Grants by completing the Request for Exception of a Tuition Payment by Sponsor form. Students paid directly by private corporations are not eligible for tuition scholarships.
To appoint a tuition scholarship for an RPA, the department must complete the online form. In cases where grant or contract funding is delayed, the department should call the Graduate School to discuss the possibility of a tuition scholarship.
Appointment of the Tuition Scholarships for RPAs
To arrange for the tuition scholarship for an RPA, the graduate program or principal investigator must notify the Graduate School of the appointment using the on-line Tuition Scholarship Appointment form found on the Graduate School's website at:
http://www2.binghamton.edu/grad-school/faculty-and-staff/documents-and-forms/useful-forms.htmlIn addition, the PI must submit a P.O. or requisition to Sponsored Funds Office to have transfer of grant/contract funds to Student Accounts Office for tuition payment.
In order to receive the full tuition scholarship, RPA appointments for a current semester must be received by the Graduate School by the end of the 4th week of the semester; appointments made between the 5th week through the end of the 9th week of the semester will qualify for a 50% tuition scholarship provided the pro-rated stipend level meets the minimum requirements. In cases where grant or contract funding is delayed, and appointments arrive after the 4th week of the semester, full tuition will be available provided the student is still receiving a full stipend equal to or greater than the base stipend level for TA/GAs in the same program. Contact the Graduate School's funding office for details on how to process exceptions. In cases where outside sponsors limit the stipend level, the Graduate School will consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
For each student appointed, the graduate program must also submit the set of signed Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship.
Questions regarding the completion of this form can be directed to the Assistant Dean in the Graduate School at 777-2061. Training for department staff members,who are new to funding appointments is also available from the Graduate School upon request.
Payroll Forms/Requirements
Arrangement for the RPA stipend must be made through the Research Foundation Personnel/Payroll Office. Note that the Graduate School is not responsible for placing RPAs on the Research Foundation payroll. It is the responsibility of the grant PI or graduate program to complete all necessary RF appointment paperwork in order to assure that the student is place on the RF payroll. Please contact the RF Personnel/Payroll Office (777-4264) for questions concerning direct deposit, income tax withholding, and I-9 requirements.
Termination of RPA Appointments
When it is necessary to terminate an RPA position, it is important that the Graduate School be notified immediately so that the tuition scholarship may also be terminated. Should it be necessary to terminate an RPA appointment after a student has been appointed, it is the PI's or the graduate program's responsibility to notify the Graduate School immediately of the termination. To terminate an appointment, use the on-line Termination Form found on the Graduate School's website at:
http://www2.binghamton.edu/grad-school/faculty-and-staff/documents-and-forms/useful-forms.htmlIf an RPA has held the RPA position for at least the first 9 weeks of the semester, the PI may decide whether or not to allow the student to maintain the tuition scholarship for that semester. In the event that the tuition scholarship is continued for the existing semester, the PI or graduate program may not assign a tuition scholarship to the replacement.
Fellowships
A variety of merit-based fellowship opportunities exist for graduate students at Binghamton University. Fellowship recipients are paid a monthly stipend that varies depending on the type of fellowship. Fellows may be eligible for a tuition scholarship. Normally fellows are expected to be in residence during the fellowship; but travel for the work of the fellowship is permissible. If the fellow will be off campus for more than a month of the fellowship, a written plan and schedule of work should be discussed with the faculty advisor, and the plan should be approved by and filed with the Graduate Director.
Dissertation Fellowships (DF)
Depending on availability of funds, some dissertation fellowships (DF) are offered each year to outstanding doctoral students who have been advanced to candidacy and who show exceptional merit. DF fellowships are offered for one or two semesters (and are not renewable). DFs provide each recipient with a stipend equal to the base TA/GA stipend for the recipient's program. Including the DF time, recipients must not exceed the maximum number of years of funding; 12 semesters if entered with BA/BS, 8 semesters if entered with MA/MS.
Dissertation fellowship funds are provided to graduate programs as funds become available. The graduate program receiving funds decide on the student recipients. Recipients must have >=3.0 GPA, no outstanding Incompletes, no Withdrawns while funded by the Graduate School, good academic standing and good progress toward degree.
Graduate Scholar Awards
Highly qualified new and continuing graduate students may be offered a Graduate Scholar award. This award may be in addition to a regular TA/GA position during the academic year. Graduate Scholars awards to students are merit-based. No service is required, but students must be registered as "full time". Funds are provided to graduate programs as funds become available. Recipients must have >=3.0 GPA, no outstanding Incompletes, no Withdrawns while funded by the Graduate School, good academic standing and good progress toward degree.
Binghamton Foundation Fellowships
A number of miscellaneous fellowships are made available through charitable gifts solicited by the Binghamton Foundation. Application and selection procedures vary depending on the type of award. Contact the Binghamton Foundation (777-2011) for more information on graduate fellowship opportunities. The Graduate School normally provides a tuition scholarship for such fellowships provided they meet minimum funding guidelines. Normally a full (100%) tuition scholarship is provided for fellowships of at least $8,100/academic year; a half (50%) tuition scholarship is provided for fellowships paid at a rate of at least $4,122/academic year.
Dr.Gajwani MS University Fellowship
The Gajwani Fellowship is awarded to a new applicant to Binghamton University who has received a degree from the MS University of Baroda in India. The fellowship provides the recipient with an annual stipend for the first year.
Applications for the fellowship are available at http://www2.binghamton.edu/grad-school/prospective-students/funding-graduate-studies/university-fellowships.html; selection is made by a committee selected by the Graduate School.
Clifford D. Clark Minority Fellowships
Binghamton University is committed to supporting all students. One means is through the Clifford D. Clark Underrepresented Minority Graduate Fellowships, named for a former president of the university (1975-1990), and funded by the State University of New York and an endowment fund. The Clark Fellowships are designed to recruit and support the best underrepresented minority students in all of our graduate programs. The funding package includes academic year stipends, full tuition scholarships, guaranteed award periods, research and travel opportunities, and other benefits. For full details visit the Clark Fellowship web page.
Appointment of Fellowships
Clark Fellows and Gajwani Fellows are selected and appointed directly by the Graduate School. Other fellowships are handled differently, depending on the individual fellowship. The custodian for all fellowships awarded through the Binghamton Foundation will receive a packet of materials that provides guidance on how to arrange for payment of the stipend. Questions can also be directed to the Graduate School's funding office.
Tuition Scholarships for Fellows
The Graduate School normally provides a tuition scholarship for fellowships provided they meet minimum funding guidelines. Normally a full (100%) tuition scholarship is provided for fellowships of at least $8,100/academic year; a half (50%) tuition scholarship is provided for fellowships paid at a rate of at least $4,122/academic year. Permission to appoint a tuition scholarship must be obtained from the Assistant Dean of the Graduate School. Recipients must have >=3.0 GPA, no outstanding Incompletes, no Withdrawns while funded by the Graduate School, good academic standing and good progress towards degree.
To appoint a tuition scholarship for a fellow, complete the appointment form found at the Graduate School's website at:
http://www2.binghamton.edu/grad-school/faculty-and-staff/documents-and-forms/useful-forms.html
Fellow Expectations and Limitations
Fellows receiving tuition scholarships are required to abide by the Terms and Conditions for Acceptance of the Tuition Scholarship. In addition, fellows are expected to devote themselves full-time to the pursuit of their graduate degrees. Fellows are not permitted to hold other positions.
Fellowship recipients are not covered under the GSEU bargaining unit, and no insurance benefits are provided to fellows. Fellowship recipients are encouraged to purchase the University's student health plan through the Student Accounts Office. Fellows who are paid stipends through the Research Foundation may also purchase the Research Foundation's insurance plan at full cost.
Taxation of Fellowship Stipends
Although withholding tax is not deducted from fellowship stipends, they are considered taxable income and must be reported to the Internal Revenue Service. Academic expenses (such as books and fees) may, however, be tax deductable by individuals.
Federally-Funded College Work Study Program
Several federal Work-Study positions are available on campus for graduate students who qualify on the basis of financial need. This program is open only to U.S. citizens and permanent residents of the United States. To apply, file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application and contact the Graduate School to receive a separate Work-Study application. The FAFSA form is available from the Financial Aid and Student Employment Office (SW109) or online at: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. Once the FAFSA is filled out, fill out application for work study and submit via email to Maureen Truesdail at mtruesda@binghamton.edu
Work Study participants earn an hourly wage and can work up to 20 hours/week. Work Study positions may be accompanied by a partial tuition scholarship, based on the availability of funds as determined by the Graduate School Dean at the beginning of each academic year.
Recipients must have >=3.0 GPA, no outstanding Incompletes, no Withdrawns while funded by the Graduate School, good academic standing and good progress towards degree.
G1/G2 vs. Levels
Faculty and staff are often confused about the "G1" and "G2" status and the four Levels (1, 2, 3, and 4). For the most part, the G1 and G2 statuses are used for SUNY records.
What is a G1 Student?
What is a G2 Student?
How do Levels fit into this picture?
Full-Time Registration Requirements for Funded Students
Overload Policy for Funded Students
Level 1 Students
Students receiving tuition scholarships are expected to register full time (9 or 12 credits, depending on level). Because Level 1 students must take 12 credits (the maximum chargeable tuition amount), they may overload at no additional cost to the Graduate School; thus, there are no special requirements for Level 1 students.
Level 2, 3, or 4 Students
Level 2, 3, and 4 students are considered full time at 9 credits. Thus, taking more than 9 credit hours constitutes an overload for funded students. Except for certain exempted programs, Level 2, 3, or 4 students who register for more than 9 credit hours will be billed for all credits above 9, unless an Overload Petition for Funded Students is approved by both the graduate program and the Graduate School. Overloads will be approved only when it is demonstrated (via the justification section of the petition) that the additional credit hours are applicable to the degree program requirements and are essential for completion of the degree in a timely manner.
Payment of Fees for ABD Students
Prior to the fall semester 1998, funded students were permitted to be certified as full time by registering for between 1 and 4 credits. During that time, students were responsible for all fees assessed, but could contain expense by registering for only 1 credit. In the fall of 1998 it was deemed in the best interest of the institution - in terms of maximizing funds allocated from SUNY system - for all students receiving a tuition scholarship to be registered full time. Students who had previously been registering for 1 credit were now required to register for 9 credits.
Funded students who qualify as ABD (officially all-but-dissertation) and "CC" (coursework completed) may register for any number of thesis or dissertation research credits up to 9 credits and only pay the mandatory student fees for one credit. This policy is established in order to prevent an undue financial liability for students funded with a full tuition scholarship who might otherwise register for only 1 credit in order to maintain full-time status. Funded ABD and CC students may take other courses (e.g., regular courses, seminars, independent study, any other non-thesis or non-dissertation research courses) but are required to pay fees for any such courses. The "one-credit-fee for up to 9 thesis/dissertation credits" policy does not apply to self-funded students.
Qualifications
In order to qualify, students must meet all of the following qualifications:
- Must qualify as an ABD or CC student (see definition below).
- Must be receiving a full (100%) tuition scholarship from the Graduate School.
- Must be a Level 2, 3, or 4 student registered for 9 credits.
"CC" Status
To qualify for "CC" status, a graduate student must have completed all coursework requirements for the degree. This coursework must have been completed by the first day of classes of the semester in which the student is to be designated as "CC." Coursework is to be considered complete only when a grade has been assigned for each course; coursework is not considered complete when the grade recorded is "Incomplete."
"ABD" Status
ABD means "all-but-dissertation". To qualify for "ABD" status, a graduate student must have been officially advanced to doctoral candidacy. To be advanced to candidacy, the graduate student's program office must have submitted to the Graduate School the "Recommendation for Advancement to Candidacy for Doctoral Degree" form. which verifies that all course-work, number of credits required, required exams, excluding the dissertation defense, have been completed.
Policy Limitations
- Fees assessed on 10-12 credits are not included in this policy and are the responsibility of the student.
- Students who are simultaneously completing their master's degree and beginning PhD coursework do not qualify for "CC" status. The only time a master's student qualifies for this status is if the student is a "terminal" master's student (i.e., not continuing on at Binghamton University for the PhD) and is in a position to take only one credit of thesis research in order to complete the master's thesis.
- The last date for preparation of a CC/ABD letter is the day before the first day of classes in the semester that the fee will be reduced. The Graduate School will not facilitate or approve fee reduction.
- Only standard mandatory student fees are covered; the international student insurance fee, the optional insurance fee, and any late fees or reinstatement fees are not covered under this arrangement.
Procedure for Certifying Staff
- Certification of status is the responsibility of the graduate program. It is important to review the student's record carefully to make sure that he/she meets the requirements for the given status. The graduate program must notify the Graduate School of each student's status; this is done by completing the appropriate "CC/ABD" area on the appointment form. If certification was overlooked at the time of appointment, graduate directors may send an email to the Graduate School verifying a student's status.
Federal Financial Aid
Aid for Degree Students
U.S. citizens and permanent residents of the United States who are enrolled in degree-granting programs at Binghamton University may be eligible for federal aid administered by the University's Student Financial Aid and Employment Office (109 Student Services Wing). To be considered for financial aid, a Graduate and Professional School Financial Aid Service (GAPSFAS) application or a Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) must be filed by March 1 for the fall semester or November 15 for the spring semester.
Graduate students who are U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for a guaranteed student loan of up to $5,000 through their participating hometown banks.
Students who have established at least one year of New York State residency may also be eligible for New York's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Students who file a FAFSA form indicating that they are attending a NY State university will automatically be sent a TAP application. Applications are also available from the Financial Aid Office or by writing to:
NY State Higher Education Services Corporation
Tower Building, Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12223Complete information about grants, loans, and employment, including the Federal College Work-Study program and the University's Job Opportunity Program are available from the Financial Aid Office.
Aid for Non-degree Student
Non-degree graduate students who are U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents may apply for financial aid for up to one year, provided that they take at least six credits per semester and can verify that the courses they take would be applicable to a graduate degree at Binghamton University.
To apply for non-degree aid, students must obtain a financial aid form for non degree students (available from the Financial Aid Office located in Room 109 of the Student Wing) and have the form signed by the appropriate director of graduate studies and a representative of the Graduate School. The director of graduate studies who signs this form attests that the courses chosen will apply toward a graduate degree in the program.
Help With External Funding
Binghamton University is a member of COS. This allows all students, faculty, and staff access to COS's searchable database of grant and fellowship opportunities by logging on from a University server or proxy server at http://www.cos.com/. COS provides information on funding in all disciplines and features several features such as user profiles and funding alerts. The Technology Training Center (TTC) will provide workshops in searching COS and getting the most out of this service. For more information on TTC workshops, see http://training.binghamton.edu.
Graduate Tuition Opportunity Program
The Graduate Tuition Opportunity Program (GTOP) pays partial tuition for qualified minority students. Former EOP or SEEK or HEOP students may qualify for tuition scholarships through this program. For more information or to apply, contact the Graduate School. Download a copy of the Graduate Tuition Opportunity program (pdf, 163KB).
Loans
Graduate students at Binghamton University who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who are enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in degree-granting programs are eligible for federal aid administered by the University's Student Financial Aid and Employment Office (109 Student Services Wing, 777-2428). The Financial Aid Office has complete information about grants, loans and employment, including Federal College Work-Study and the University's Job Opportunity Program.
Both subsidized and unsubsidized loans are available to graduate students at Binghamton University. To be considered for aid, applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form by February 15 for the fall semester and November 15 for the following spring semester. For complete details on loans, contact the Student Financial Aid Office at (607) 777-2428, or visit their website.
Subsidized Loans
Federal Direct Subsidized Loans are need-based loans made directly to the student. The federal government pays the interest that accrues on the loan while the student is enrolled and during a six-month grace period afterward. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible. A maximum of $8,500 can be borrowed per academic year.
Unsubsidized Loans
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans are non-need based. Students who meet general eligibility requirements and who are enrolled at least half time may qualify. The student is responsible for all interest that accrues while the student is enrolled.
Interest begins to accumulate from the date of the first loan disbursement and is billed quarterly. Students may choose to pay the interest that accumulates or have it capitalized. The loan limit per academic year is $10,000.
Low-interest federal direct subsidized, unsubsidized, and nursing loans are available to graduate students who apply for financial aid. For more information regarding student loans, please contact the Student Financial Aid and Employment Office.
Taxation of Stipends
Since the 1986 revisions to the tax laws, stipends for assistantships and fellowships are considered taxable, although academic expenses may be deducted from fellowship awards. Graduate students receiving assistantship stipends must file a federal W-4 Form and similar NYS form in the University's Human Resources Office or the Research Foundation's Personnel/Payroll Office before employment begins. Unless other arrangements are explicitly made, withholding tax is deducted from all graduate, teaching, and research assistantships. Withholding tax is not deducted from fellowship awards, but fellowships are taxable, and recipients should consult with tax advisors.
Graduate Student Employees Union
Graduate students who are awarded state-funded teaching or graduate assistantships and who hold titles of TA (Teaching Assistant) or GA (Graduate Assistant) belong to the bargaining unit represented by the Graduate Student Employees Union (GSEU). Only students in these two categories are in the bargaining unit; others--including students on external or internal fellowships, research project assistants (RPAs), interns and federal Graduate Work Study students--are not represented by a union.
Fees
All required fees must be paid by beginning of semester. Advanced students who have completed all required coursework or who are officially all-but-dissertation (ABD) may be eligible for reduced fees.
Tuition Scholarships and Stipends do not cover fees.
