How can I apply to teach in order to earn my way through grad school?

Question

I really want to go to grad school but can't yet afford it. I will have my bachelor's degree in May and want to continue. What do I need to do in order to teach my way to free or cheap tuition?

Answer 1

All you must do is apply to graduate programs. Each program will consider you for fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships (whichever they offer).

You MUST have excellent GREs, an excellent GPA in your major, and strong letters of recommendation from your current professors in order to be a strong candidate for these awards.

Your personal statement (and often, your writing sample) will also impact your ability to qualify for such an award.

Best wishes to you!

Answer 2

You really need to look at the specific grad program. In MANY of my programs that I applied to, I don't have to teach at all and get a $23,000-$28,000 stipend, depending on the school (mine are Case Western, Vanderbilt, Emory, Tulane and about 5 more). Then again, these are top research oriented schools...they don't want TA's teaching courses. So basically, I will have to work in the lab doing research for my dissertation to get my stipend. They're paying me to be a student. They also waive tuition at most schools. I think you're a bit late to apply to any of the top programs, but check out programs with rolling admissions or no deadline. You really shouldn't have to pay for graduate school...you are MOST likely to pay if you are applying for a Masters...but PHD programs...no. You should not be paying to be in a PHD program.

Answer 3

If you get admitted to grad school, they will fund you probably through teaching assistships. If they don't, don't go to grad school there. Pick a place that wants you enough to support you, that's how grad school should work, ideally. It's best to have done some research as an undergrad, to help get admitted. It isn't just your undergrad grades and GRE scores.