Minimum PhD funding and Graduate Teaching Assistant/Graduate Research Assistant updates
Effective May 1, 2026, the minimum funding rate for eligible graduate students in a PhD program increased by 2.8%.
Each year, the Graduate Student Relations Committee (GSRC) reviews graduate student funding levels and employment compensation. Based on these discussions, the committee makes recommendations to the Vice-President, Academic and Provost regarding minimum PhD funding and Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) and Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) rates.
During the 2025/2026 annual review cycle, the committee engaged in discussions regarding graduate student funding, affordability, compensation, and the broader financial environment affecting graduate students at Waterloo. Additional details about how minimum funding levels and employment rates are reviewed and determined are available on the Annual review process for minimum funding levels web page.
Effective May 1, 2026, the guaranteed minimum funding for eligible full-time doctoral students within time limits and in good academic standing increased by 2.8% to $29,145 (up from $28,351 in 2025/2026). Additional details are available on the minimum funding web page.
Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) and Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) rates also increased by 2.8% effective May 1, 2026. Information regarding GTA and GRA employment, including applicable rates, is available on the Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA) and Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) web page.
Graduate students should note that, beginning with Fall 2026 appointments, GTA and GRA positions are no longer automatically assigned. Students interested in GTA or GRA employment opportunities must apply through the centralized recruitment process. Additional information is available on the Graduate student unionization: Understanding the basics web page.
If you have questions about minimum funding, GTA/GRA employment, or the updated rates, please contact your graduate program co-ordinator.