UA Little Rock Increases Financial Support for Graduate Assistantships

UA Little Rock is making its largest investment in graduate assistant stipends in more than a decade, increasing financial support for master’s and doctoral students beginning this fall.

Beginning in Fall 2026, the university will raise the minimum stipend for master’s-level graduate assistants from $8,000 to $10,000 for a nine-month appointment. Doctoral-level graduate assistants will see their minimum stipend increase from $13,000 to $15,000.

Graduate assistantships allow students to pursue advanced degrees while gaining hands-on experience in research, teaching, and university operations. In addition to a stipend, assistantships may include tuition benefits that help offset the cost of graduate school.

“I am sensitive to the financial pressures that our graduate students face and the impact that rising costs have had on them,” said Dr. Brian Berry, vice provost of research and dean of the Graduate School. “I am committed to continuing this discussion and progressing toward competitive GA stipends.”

The increase continues a trend of growing university investment in graduate student support. Five years ago, the minimum stipend for master’s-level graduate assistants was approximately $6,000. Two years ago, it was raised to $8,000. This fall’s increase to $10,000 marks the latest step in the university’s efforts to address rising costs for graduate students.

Graduate assistants serve in a variety of roles across campus. Some assist faculty with research projects, while others support classroom instruction, work in administrative offices, or contribute to projects related to their field of study.

Beyond financial assistance, assistantships provide students with practical experience that complements their academic work and helps prepare them for careers in higher education, industry, government, nonprofit organizations, and other professional fields.

The increased stipends also help UA Little Rock remain competitive in attracting and retaining talented graduate students.

Students interested in graduate assistantship opportunities can learn more through the Graduate School and individual academic programs. Assistantships are available in a variety of disciplines across the university.

For more information about graduate assistantships and graduate programs, visit ualr.edu/gradschool.