A Graduate Assistantship (GA) is a work opportunity that programs and units at Grand Valley State University offer to graduate students. The benefits of a graduate assistantship include:

• 10- or 20-hour per week work on campus or in the field.
• Potentially a 2-year commitment, depending on the position and program.
• Opportunities to conduct research, assist with instruction, or provide service to university constituents.
• Tuition assistance in the form of a tuition waiver.
• A bi-weekly stipend over a semester or academic year.
• Paid student parking during the term of their assistantship.
• Experience within their field of study.
• An opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a professional setting.
• Note: Grand Valley does not charge a higher tuition rate based on residency. Tuition is based on the program in which you chose to enroll. Visit the financial aid office webpage for tuition and fees.

Mandatory New Graduate Assistant Orientation Fall 2020

All NEW graduate assistants are required to attend a New Graduate Assistant Orientation session, hosted by Dr. Jeffrey Potteiger, Dean of the Graduate School.

Because of COVID19 concerns, we held one on-campus orientation and two virtual orientations.

If you are a NEW GA and did not attend an orientation for Fall 2020, please contact Irene Fountain in the Graduate School to make arrangements for an orientation. 

More Information and Qualification Requirements

What is a Graduate Assistantship?

Graduate Assistantship Rules

Where to Find a Graduate Assistantship

The best way to find a Graduate Assistantship is through your department. Ask your advisor and/or the head of the department.

GA positions are often listed on the Student Employment Electronic Job Board.

You can also check our Graduate Assistantship Job Openings. 

Resources for those in Graduate Assistant Roles

Graduate Assistant Q & A

GA Orientation Fall 2019

Stipend/Payroll Questions - Student Employment

Parking Permit - Apply Here

Tuition Waiver Questions - Financial Aid