Graduate Program Funding Information

Funding opportunities are available to all research graduate program students. The majority of PhD students and over half of MS students receive funding for their academic careers. Please note that full tuition coverage cannot be guaranteed for all students.

Financial aid primarily comes in the form of research assistantships (RAs), which are funded by faculty advisors through grants and research projects. It is advisable to inquire about funding when interviewing potential advisors during the second round of application review. RA availability varies among faculty members.

Teaching assistantships (TAs), which are funded by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, also provide financial aid. TA positions are determined annually, and students are hired during late spring/early summer through an application and matching process. TA availability varies significantly from year to year.

RA and TA appointments offer tuition remission ranging from 25% to 100%, as well as an hourly rate of pay. Most RAs and TAs are eligible for the Graduate Student Health Plan. Be aware that assistantships do not cover university, collegiate, or registration fees.

Academic fellowships, which are funded by generous donors, may also be available. Eligibility requirements and awarding criteria differ between fellowships. Students are provided relevant application information as fellowships become available.

Students are encouraged to regularly review the University of Minnesota Graduate School's funding page  for external financial award opportunities.

It is essential to know that not all incoming students will receive full funding. Some students rely on personal funds or external financial aid to persist in the program.