GA Information and Positions

ETSU Graduate School

Graduate Assistantship Information

 

Graduate Assistantship service hours can include teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities, depending on the position.

Graduate assistants (or GA’s, as they are often called) work on campus 20 hours per week. GA’s receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend for 9 months. 

You can find more information in the FAQ below or in the Graduate Assistantship Handbook.

  • Policies

    GA Eligibility

    Interested students must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to apply:

    • Register for at least 9 graduate credit hours in the fall and spring semesters.
    • For summer contracts, if the contract ends June 30th the student must register for 3 hours in pre-summer or summer session I. If the contracts goes through August the student must register for 3 hours during summer session II. If the summer contract begins in May and ends in August, the student must register for 6 hours in any of the summer sessions (pre-summer, session I, and/or session II). The student may divide the 6 hours between sessions, for example; 3 credit hours in session I and 3 more in session II.
    • Not be employed anywhere else on campus.
    • Be admitted unconditionally to the degree program. (1 semester exception)
    • Maintain a 3.0 GPA.

    Human Resources and Payroll Procedures

    Requirements for International Students

    • If an international student is graduating do not write contracts past the official commencement date
    • International students must take the Oral Proficiency Interview immediately upon arrival at ETSU. 
    • International students applying for full-time graduate assistantships may not hold temporary positions
    • International students must have current Glacier paperwork on file before payroll can be processed. For more information contact Jennifer Crigger at criggerj@etsu.edu or by phone at (423) 439-6887.

    Deadlines and Fee Payments

    • GA Deadlines
    • Maintenance Fees (tuition) are the only fees covered by a GA position. 
    • Students are responsible for all other fees not covered by his or her GA.
    • Out-of-State Tuition will be waived after all miscellaneous fees have been paid or a deferred payment option is utilized by the student. A $50.00 fee is charged for the deferred payment option.
    • There are only a limited number of summer graduate assistantships. The department must have the accounting number entered to pay summer tuition for graduate assistantships. If your department has a summer appointment, contact  Trina Mathes in Financial Services at mathestd@etsu.edu.

    Information is subject to change *

  • FAQ
     
    • What is a Graduate Assistantship?

      A Graduate Assistantship is an opportunity available to qualifying graduate students for on-campus employment. Graduate Assistants (or GAs, as they are often called) can either work in teaching, research, or administrative roles depending upon the position. Graduate assistants receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend for 9 months for the academic year. Graduate Assistantships do not cover fees. Stipend amounts vary by programs, with doctoral student stipends typically higher than those for master’s students. For more detailed information about the types of Graduate Assistantships, refer to the GA Handbook (page 5)

    • Graduate Assistantship eligibility and requirements

      As stated above, a Graduate Assistantship (GA) is an opportunity for qualifying graduate students to work on campus in either teaching, research, or administrative roles. Graduate assistantships receive tuition assistance and a monthly stipend; fees are not covered.

      General eligibility requirements for receiving a Graduate Assistantship is  that the recipient:

      1. Must be fully admitted to a graduate program
      2. Must register for at least 9 graduate hours during the Fall and Spring semester (3 hours during the summer semester if working 5/15-6/30 and 6 hours if working 5/15-8/15). Recipients of Graduate Assistantships must maintain those hours through the semester. If you drop below those hours, you are ineligible and your contract will be reviewed and may be canceled.
      3. Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
      4. Cannot hold another paid position on campus without prior approval of the Dean of ETSU Graduate School.
    • How do I find and apply for a GA position?

      To apply for a Graduate Assistantship (GA)  you must first check the appropriate box on your graduate school application package. Once you have submitted your application it will be forwarded to the graduate coordinator assigned to the graduate program you are applying for admission into. We strongly encourage you to contact the department in which you would want to work and express your interest in a GA  If you are unable to get a position in your department you can go online to the graduate school web site and click on Assistantships. You may then view current vacancies by clicking on the Current List of Available GA  Positions. Openings are posted at the request of a department and the list can change, so check it often. GA's  are available all across campus, not just in academic departments. Once you have obtained a position with a particular department, please go to Human Resources to complete all of the appropriate paperwork. The department will complete a GA  online appointment that will be submitted to the Graduate School Office for processing. The general requirements to hold a GA  are as follows:

      1. Must be fully admitted to a graduate program.
      2. Must register for at least 9 graduate hours during the Fall and Spring semester (3 hours during the Summer semester if working 5/15-6/30 and 6 hours if working from 5/15-8/15). Candidate must maintain those hours throughout the semester. If you drop below hours, you are ineligible and your contract will be reviewed and may be cancelled.
      3. Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
      4. You cannot hold another paid position on campus without prior approval of the Dean, ETSU Graduate School.
    • Are Graduate Certificate students eligible for a GA?
      No, students in graduate certificate programs are not eligible for a GA.
    • I am in an a fully online ETSU graduate program. Am I eligible for a graduate assistantship?
      Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
    • What is a half GA and can a graduate student have two half GA's in separate areas?
      A half GA is the same as a regular GA except the student works half the hours (10 hours) receiving half the regular stipend per month and half tuition coverage. A student may have two half GA's under different supervisors or in different areas as long as the student works 10 hours within each area totaling 20 hours a week. A student with two half GA's would, therefore, receive a full stipend and full tuition coverage.
    • I understand that students are restricted to a two year limit, but do not know what the policy is for a returning student working on a second Master's degree. May I accept another GA position?
      The number of terms/years of eligibility for students pursuing masters and doctoral degrees can be found in the GA handbook. Students pursuing dual masters degree programs or second masters degree programs may be considered for a third year of support (one additional year); approval is considered by the Dean or Associate Dean of the ETSU Graduate School in response from a request from the students current Graduate Program Coordinator and by the GA contracting unit. All other requirements of eligibility must be met.
    • What happens if I want to move from a full GA to a half GA mid-semester?
      A student may not move from a full GA to a half GA mid-semester due to the terms of their contract. Any changes, made to a contract agreement would require new appointments subject to approval, reasonable notice, and appropriate paperwork. Changes are generally not approved midway or late in the semester.
    • Are students granted deferred action status (DACA) eligible for a graduate assistant?
      No. In the state of Tennessee individuals granted deferred action status are not eligible to make use of public funds for the purposes of higher education, a prohibition that includes such things as in-state residency classification as well as publically funded scholarships and assistantships like graduate assistantships.
    • Are there any fees that a GA will not cover?
      Yes. A GA  waiver will not cover a student's program service fee or specialty course fees. Students are responsible for making arrangements to pay those charges by the Friday before classes begin. Basically, the GA waiver will cover the maintenance fee (i.e. tuition) only. All other charges such as business course fees, technology fees or international insurance etc. should be handled by the student.
    • What should I do if I add or delete classes after my GA waiver has been posted?
      If you register for 9 hours then add or delete classes after your GA waiver has been posted, your tuition waiver amount will not automatically adjust, leaving a balance. It is the responsibility of the student to inform the comptroller's office of those changes so they can adjust your waiver properly. If you drop a class and your total number of graduate credit hours drops below requirements to hold a GA then the contract is subject to cancellation.
    • I am in a regular graduate program and want to take a TN eCampus course. Will my graduate assistantship cover the cost of that course?
      No, TN eCampus course tuition cannot be covered by graduate assistantships. You may take the course, but you will need to pay the tuition.
    • Is the winter session tuition covered for a GA? Do the graduate credit hours count toward spring required hours?
      The tuition remission that comes with a GA  appointment does not cover tuition for winter session courses and winter session courses do not count toward the requirement to be enrolled in nine graduate hours for spring term.
    • Are there any GA  positions offered at night or on the weekends for student teachers or others with those scheduling needs?
      The only night or weekend positions available are in the Library, computer labs, and coaching positions. Student teachers are strongly advised to not be employed during their student teaching experience, however GA  contracts can be submitted to the graduate office to be reviewed on a case by case basis.
    • Are GA's eligible for medical leave of absence?
      No, there is no provision for a medical or any other kind of leave of absence from a Graduate Assistantship. GA contracts will be canceled as soon as a student decides to withdraw from the University and submits a resignation letter to the graduate studies office. Please refer to the handbook.
    • If I have a GA position in the current semester and withdraw from the University, would I be eligible for a GA position the next semester?
      This situation would be reviewed on a case by case basis. Special consideration is given to students who have to withdraw due to medical reasons and can provide documentation.
    • Do GA's have an official start date and end date?
      The general start and end dates are as follows:
      1. Summer term I - May 15 to June 30
      2. Summer term II - July 1 to August 15
      3. Academic Year - August 15 to May 15
      4. Fall only - August 15 to December 15
      5. Spring only - January 2 - May 15
      6. Fiscal Year July 1 to June 30
    • Do GA's have to work during fall or spring break?
      Yes, GA's work according to the campus office schedule. When offices are open, GA's are required to work their hours. When offices are closed--such as holidays or closings due to weather--GA's are not required to work or make up those hours.
    • How much do GA's get paid and when?
      Stipend levels vary between programs. For academic year contracts (Aug 15 - May 15), the stipend is paid in 8 equal installments on the last business day of the month from September to April.
    • What are my employee rights as a GA?

      Graduate Assistants should have clear job assignments. Other rights, the evaluation process for GAs, and the appeals process are discussed in the GA Handbook (page 11)

    • Is the Best Plus OPI test a one time test or does one have to take it every year?
      The Best Plus Oral Proficiency Interview is a one-time test that, if passed, holds for the duration of your time here at ETSU. Students can choose to repeat the test if they wish to try and increase their scores.
    • Do non-resident alien Graduate Assistants have to fill out the International Employee/Student Tax Questionnaire every year?
      Non-resident alien students must fill out and submit a questionnaire along with each new GA contract that is submitted to the graduate studies office to ensure the student will get taxed properly. The questionnaire can be found here.
    • What happens if a GA is put on academic probation?
      As stated in the GA Handbook, GA's must maintain a 3.0 grade point average. One who fails to maintain a 3.0 may be allowed 1 semester to remedy the grade deficiency.
    • Are parking permits or decals for full-time GA's available for faculty parking?
      No, although GA’s are paid by ETSU, they are not considered faculty. Students who also work part-time or are adjunct faculty for ETSU do not qualify to park in faculty/staff parking areas either.
    • What are the procedures for resignation from a GA position?
      If you wish to resign from your GA position you must send a resignation letter to the graduate school and to your supervisor stating your reasons and the date you will stop working. If you resign mid-semester and retain your classes you will be billed for a pro-rated portion of the tuition. If you resign and withdraw from the university, a pro-rated portion of tuition will be due.

 

Available Graduate Assistantship Positions

 

The following list represents some Graduate Assistantship positions available across campus. This list is updated frequently. It is not an exhaustive list; academic programs may have Graduate Assistantship positions available that are not listed.

Unit managers: To remove a GA advertisement, contact the webmaster at gradapp@etsu.edu

  • Full Graduate Assistantship- Graduate School 

     

    Full Graduate Assistantship - Graduate School 

    Number of Positions: 1

    Contract Dates: Aug 15, 2025    - May 15, 2026 

    Possible Renewal: Yes

    Job Description:

    This position will assist the Graduate School Admissions Team with a variety of tasks in a fast paced technology oriented setting. Duties will include answering phone calls and email communication, quality checking information and assisting with other duties as needed. 
    The ideal candidate will exhibit strong professional communication skills, the ability to use computers and various software, attention to detail, and ability to follow procedures. 

    Job Qualifications:

    The candidate must have strong interpersonal communication skills, proficient in the use of business English, detail oriented, follow established procedures, have experience with the use of computers and business software (e.g., spreadsheets), flexible, and have excellent customer service skills 

    Job Requirements:

    The candidate must have the ability to work independently, organize and prioritize multiple tasks, to be able to triage correspondence/communication to assist applicants and inquiries online, on the phone and in person.

    Work in office 20 hours per week during regular business hours (M-F, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) 

    Application Instructions:

    Submit an application form (https://forms.office.com/r/0F7RXFAFAD). Application form requires uploading a cover letter and resume/CV.
    ***Note that an active ETSU email address is required to access this application. If you have not already set up your account, this information is on your offer letter in the application portal.***

    Only students who have been admitted and accepted their offer are eligible to apply.

    Please do not call or email after the initial submission to inquire on your application status. Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews and to complete a brief skills test. 

     

  • Full Graduate Assistantships - Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships 

     

    Full Graduate Assistantships - Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships 

    Number of Positions: 1

    Contract Dates: Aug 16, 2025   - May 15, 2026 

    Possible Renewal: Yes

    Job Description:

    The Student Employment Coordinator and the Assistant Director of Scholarships are seeking a candidate to assist with the day to day operations in a high volume data entry work environment. The applicant must be a mature and detail-oriented individual that is a quick learner to complete tasks in a timely and accurate manner. The applicant must be able to work independently but willing to ask questions to gain clarification on instructions given. The candidate will be expected to complete tasks such as entering data into Banner and Excel, processing paperwork, sending approval emails, filing, assist in creating, editing, and proofing training materials, and other such duties as assigned. 

    Job Qualifications:

    The applicant should be proficient in using a Windows based computer and have working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. 

    Job Requirements:

    The candidate must adhere to a weekly work schedule of 20 hours per week during normal business hours of 8:00AM to 4:30PM. 

    Application Instructions:

     
    Submit cover letter and resume to shankssa@etsu.edu with "Fall 2025 OFAS GA Application" in the subject line. DO NOT CALL. 

    Contact Information

    Sarah Miller 
    Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships
    Email: shankssa@etsu.edu  

     

  • Full Graduate Assistantships - Mary V. Jordan Center --Peer Mentoring Program 

     

    Full Graduate Assistantships - Mary V. Jordan Center --Peer Mentoring Program 

    Number of Positions: 2

    Contract Dates: Aug 13, 2025  - May 15, 2026 

    Possible Renewal: Yes

    Job Description:

    Graduate Assistants for the peer mentoring program will assist the assistant director in organizing and coordinating the program. Duties will include recruitment, mentor and mentee education, program development, scheduling, and other duties as assigned by the assistant director. 

    Job Qualifications:

    We are looking for students who have an undergraduate degree or are seeking a graduate degree in the education and helping disciplines, such as teaching, counseling, social work, education administration, and other similar fields. 

    Job Requirements:

    Graduate Assistants are required to work 20 hours per week. Will be required to be on-campus/on-site on the date the contract starts (the week before classes begin). Occasional nights and weekends will be required.

    Dependability and reliability: 
    Student mentors and mentees will rely on us to be available during working hours.

    Confidentiality: 
    This position handles confidential student information.

    Application Instructions:

     
    Send resume and position-specific cover letter to huntej@etsu.edu 
    Please do not call or email after the initial submission to inquire. Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.

    Contact Information

    Samantha Hunt 
    Mary V. Jordan Center --Peer Mentoring Program 
    Phone: (423) 439-4853 
    Email: huntej@etsu.edu  

     

  • Full Graduate Assistantships - University School 

     

    Full Graduate Assistantships - University School 

    Number of Positions: 2

    Contract Dates: Jul 09, 2025 - Dec 12, 2025 

    Possible Renewal: Yes

    Job Description:

    GAs at University School do a variety of jobs such as, but not limited to: classroom assistants, lunchroom monitors, substitute teachers, after school program monitors, one-on-one or small group tutoring, school office assistants, counseling office assistants. School hours are 8:00am to 3:00pm daily, and our after school program is from 3:15-5:30pm. GAs must have work availability during these time brackets. University School is on a year-round calendar and GAs must be available when University School is in session. Our fall semester runs from July 9, to December 12, 2025. 

    Job Qualifications:

    We are looking for graduate students who have either a teaching or counseling undergraduate degree, or who are pursuing a master’s degree in education or counseling. Others who have considerable experience working with children may also be considered.

    Job Requirements:

    Applicants must be available to work when University School is in session. Our calendar is accessible here: https://www.etsu.edu/uschool/documents/2025_2026_school_calendar.pdf Our fall semester starts July 9 and ends December 12, 2025. Our daily hours are 8:00-3:00 and our afterschool program runs from 3:15-5:30. 

    Application Instructions:

    Applicants should send their resume to Dr. Barnett  barnettk@etsu.edu Please include any experience working with children. Please also include 3 references in your resume.

    Contact Information

    Kelli Barnett 
    Clemmer College of Education and Human Development
    University School
    Phone: (423) 439-5924 
    Email: barnettk@etsu.edu  

     

  • Half Graduate Assistantships – College of Arts & Sciences Advisement

     

    Half Graduate Assistantships – College of Arts & Sciences Advisement

    Number of Positions: 2

    Contract Dates: 08/15/2025 - 05/15/2026

    Possible Renewal: Yes

    Job Description:

    College of Arts & Sciences Advisement (CASA) seeks two graduate students to assist in front desk operations and student outreach. Duties include checking in students, answering phone calls, scheduling appointments with advisors, communicating with advisors, outreach to students, assisting students with registration questions, and general office duties. Other duties as assigned. More information about our office can be found at https://www.etsu.edu/cas/case

    Job Qualifications:

    Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and be enrolled full time in the College of Graduate Studies. Priority will be given to applicants enrolled in programs within the College of Arts & Sciences.

    Job Requirements:

    This position requires interaction with students, faculty, and staff. The candidate must have a professional office presence with a focus on customer service, including strong and effective communication and phone skills. Self-motivated and dependable. Demonstrate a strong work ethic. Ability to work individually as well as part of a team. Must work 10 hours per week. 

    Application Instructions:

    Submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for two references to Callie Daniel at danielce@etsu.edu Please also confirm that you have been accepted to a graduate program at ETSU and are registered for Fall 2025 in your email.

    Contact Information

    Callie Daniel
    College of Arts & Sciences Advisement
    Phone: 423.439.5602
    Email: danielce@etsu.edu