Assistantships
The majority of students admitted to a School of Earth and Space Exploration research‑based graduate program (MS or PhD in Astrophysics, MS or PhD in Geological Sciences, and PhD in Exploration Systems Design) are offered financial support through graduate assistantships. Funding is not provided for accelerated degrees and capstone or applied project-based degrees.
MS students are eligible for Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) funding only. PhD students may receive support through Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) or Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA). Assistantships may be renewed provided students remain in good academic standing and meet all requirements associated with their appointments.
MS students typically receive up to two years of funding. PhD students typically receive up to five years of funding; however, financial support beyond five years is not guaranteed and is contingent on the availability of resources.
Full financial support entails:
- Stipend – currently in the amount of $24,586 per academic year (9 months)
- Possible summer stipends up to $8,195 (3 months)
Highly qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for a graduate fellowship from the National Science Foundation in the beginning of their senior college year.
Tuition
A tuition remission is provided for all students who receive full RA or TA support, are registered for a minimum of six graduate-level credit hours per semester (not including audit hours), and who maintain satisfactory progress toward their degree requirements. Part-time RAs or TAs may receive prorated tuition remission. Tuition remission does not cover extra fees and surcharges. See the tuition and fees website for more details on extra fees and surcharges.
Health Benefits
The university covers the cost of individual health insurance premiums for full TAs and RAs who are registered for a minimum of six credit hours per semester (not including audit hours). Part-time RAs or TAs may receive prorated health insurance.
More information on this plan can be found at ASU Health Services.
For more information about Graduate TA/RA Assistantships please see the Graduate College website.
Scholarships
Please check our scholarship page for funding opportunities.
Student Emergency Fund
Visit the Student Emergency Fund website for students who encounter critical financial situations.