The Truth About Grad School Funding

Reflecting on my experience with funding in grad school, I wondered: what does “fully funded” grad program really mean?

Now that I’m on the other side of it, I think that the “fully funded” PhD programs that my professors told me to apply to are really a myth. No grad program will support you financially 100% of the time. It’s more like somewhere between 70-80%.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to figure out how to make up for the remainder. This could involve anything from applying for fellowships to getting a part-time job.

There are so many moving parts when it comes to funding in grad school. In this week’s post, I’m reflecting on my own experience with funding as a grad student. I’m also sharing some things to consider so that your own experiences are as painless as possible.

Legs crossed on the ground with a clear Starbucks cup in front of them
Contemplating my life choices on a visit to UCLA ca. 2016
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