Find an Assistantship
Most assistantships are awarded at time of admission, but opportunities may also be available for current students.
Prospective Students
Check the corresponding box on your graduate application to indicate your interest in an assistantship. Some programs have their own Graduate Assistantship application posted on their website.
Current students
Work with your department to learn of opportunities first, they are the best source of information.
Then, look for assistantship opportunities advertised or posted in these places:
Graduate Assistants
Eligibility
To be eligible for an assistantship you must be:
- Enrolled in a degree program and in good standing.
- Registered for at least six graduate credit hours (any exceptions must be approved by the Graduate School).
Work Load
Graduate assistants may not work more than 20 hours per week and are discouraged from having additional employment on or off campus.
Benefits
Graduate assistants:
- Get a Tuition Reduction
- Earn a Stipend While Going to School
- Gain Valuable Teaching and Research Experience
Types of Assistantships
- Instructional Assistantships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Research Assistantships
- Staff/Administrative Assistantships
Who awards assistantships?
Graduate assistantships are usually awarded by your department.
Requirements
GTA/GIA Training
Graduate teaching assistants must attend a university-wide or department-specific GTA/GIA training workshop, including orientation and GRAD 701.
English Proficiency
The South Carolina legislature mandates that all instructors at the university have adequate proficiency in English. International students for whom English is not their primary language can be appointed as teaching assistants only if oral proficiency in English has been evaluated as satisfactory by the faculty of the English Programs for Internationals (EPI).