GA Benefits
Graduate assistants play a critical role in the university setting. They serve as research team members and augment classroom learning as teaching assistants. In exchange, GAs receive a number of benefits, outlined below.
State-funded positions
Graduate assistants awarded state-funded positions are under contract and receive a minimum stipend of $10,000 at the master's level and a minimum stipend $12,000 at the doctoral level for nine-month contracts. Tuition reduction assistance and rewarding skill-building experiences are just a few of the added benefits.
Grant-funded positions
Grant-funded graduate assistants receive a stipend and financial assistance for tuition, though the amount will vary depending on available funding. Excellent research experiences add to the value of grant-funded positions.
Student health insurance
Graduate assistants may opt to enroll in the student health insurance program. Depending on the funding sources, GAs may receive $1,000 toward the annual health insurance premium. Visit the Student Health Center to learn more about student health insurance.
Out-of-state tuition waiver for non-Nevada residents
Out-of-state graduate students who become graduate assistants are not required to pay out-of-state tuition while under GA contract. It should be noted, however, that out-of-state tuition is waived only during the time you hold your assistantship. Hence, if you are no longer a GA, you will be considered an out-of-state student (and pay out-of-state tuition), unless you have applied for and received Nevada residency, as defined in the residency regulations established by the Board of Regents.
Note: State-funded graduate assistants under contract in the spring semesters or upcoming fall semester can take up to 12 summer term credits at a reduced rate.
GA Loans
Graduate assistants can apply for a GA loan, up to $500 per semester. These loans must be repaid by the end of the semester in which they are granted; recipients repay the loans through monthly payroll deductions. Please note that the loan is first applied to any unpaid university bills, with the remaining amount provided to the student. GA loans are not available in May, December, or summer months. Obtain an application from Graduate Student Financial Services, located in FDH 302. For more information, call 702-895-5569.