Q & A

Frequently Asked Questions

Are references required as part of the GA application process?

  • Yes, in the application process a letter of recommendation is required. 
  • Please note: New students may submit a letter of recommendation from a non TSU staff or faculty member, but current TSU students MUST submit a letter of recommendation from a TSU staff or faculty member.

When do you start accepting applications?

  • The application window for Fall is June 15th to July 1st and the application window for Spring is October 15th to November 1st.

How long do I have to submit all my application materials?

  • The application window closes 15 days from the start dates listed above. After this time the application window will be closed and no further applications will be accepted. 

I received my letter of recommendation late and the application period is closed. May I still submit it?

  • Yes, you may still submit a letter of recommendation up to ONE week after the application window closes. No other documents will be accepted after the application period has closed.

Who can apply for Assistantship positions?

  • Graduate students at either the Master, Specialist, or Doctoral level can apply for assistantship positions.

Can I apply for more than one position?

  • Yes, graduate students can apply for more than one position. However, a complete application must be submitted for each position applied for.
  • Please note, you may only hold one position at a time per university policy.

Does Title III provide Summer GA?

  • No, title III does not provide summer GA positions or funding. 

What is a normal contract length?

  • The normal contract length is for the duration of the academic year. Assistantship contracts may be amended based on completion of your degree or if you leave the university for any reason.

Is tuition covered by Title III assistantship?

  • No, Title III assistantships do not cover tuition. However, an in-state tuition rate is awarded while under contract.

Does Title III provide health insurance / 401 k?

  • No, Title III assistantships do not offer health insurance / 401k.

Can I work from home for my assistantship position?

  • No, all Title III assistantship positions require 20 hours in person.

I did not get an assistantship position last application period. Do I need to apply again?

  • Yes, you will need to reapply during the next application period.

Can international students apply for Title III assistantship positions?

  • Yes, international students can apply for and hold assistantship positions. However, you must have an active I-20.

Is housing provided for graduate students who hold assistantship positions?

  • No, housing is not provided for graduate students who hold assistantship positions.

How often are graduate assistants paid?

  • Graduate assistants are paid monthly on the last day of the month.

Where should I send my application materials?

What is the difference between an assistantship position and the POTUS fellowship?

  • The POTUS fellowship is a fellowship awarded to African American graduate students in STEM (Engineering, Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry, Physical Therapy, Psychology). Title III graduate assistantships are open to all graduate students. Go to the POTUS website for additional information.

Do current graduate assistants need to reapply every year or application period?

  • Yes. Contracts for Title III are given for a full year. At the end of your contract year you will need to reapply. 

What material is needed to reapply yearly?

  • Material needed for returning applicants is the application and course of study.