Pursuing a Ph.D. is a rewarding journey, but financing graduate studies can be one of the most important considerations for prospective students. At Brown University Graduate School, doctoral students are offered generous financial support packages that ensure they can focus on research, teaching, and academic development without overwhelming financial stress.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Ph.D. funding opportunities, stipends, assistantships, external grants, and additional support available to Brown graduate students.
Guaranteed Ph.D. Funding
One of the standout features of Brown University’s graduate programs is the funding guarantee:
- Five Years of Funding: All incoming doctoral students receive five years of guaranteed financial support, which includes summer funding.
- Six Years for Humanities & Social Sciences: Students in these disciplines receive six years of guaranteed support.
This comprehensive support package covers:
- Full tuition remission
- Annual stipend for living expenses
- Health services fee
- Health and dental insurance subsidies
Quick Funding Breakdown
| Funding Component | Coverage Duration | Benefits Included |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Remission | 5–6 Years | Full coverage of tuition costs |
| Annual Stipend | 5–6 Years | Living expense support (including summers) |
| Health Services Fee | 5–6 Years | Access to medical facilities on campus |
| Health & Dental Insurance | 5–6 Years | Subsidies for graduate student health plans |
Types of Doctoral Support
Doctoral student support at Brown can take several forms, ensuring both financial coverage and professional development:
- Teaching Assistantship (TA) – Valuable teaching experience alongside faculty.
- Research Assistantship (RA) – Hands-on involvement in faculty-led research.
- Fellowship – Competitive awards that recognize academic excellence.
- Proctorship – Professional service positions within the university.
These assignments are designed not only to provide funding but also to contribute to a student’s academic training and career development.
External Funding Opportunities
While Brown University provides substantial internal support, students are strongly encouraged to apply for external fellowships and awards. These prestigious grants:
- Enhance a student’s academic profile
- Offer additional financial flexibility
- Recognize intellectual promise and research potential
Brown even has an Incentive Program for Doctoral Students, rewarding those who secure outside funding.
Additional Graduate School Suppor
Beyond guaranteed funding, Brown University offers multiple avenues of support, including:
- Doctoral Research Travel Grants – For research conducted across the U.S. or internationally.
- Emergency Funding Programs – To assist students facing unexpected financial hardship.
- Graduate Student Insurance & Tax Information – Guidance for international students and health coverage.
Why Choose Brown University for Your Ph.D.?
Brown University stands out for its commitment to graduate student success. With guaranteed multi-year funding, diverse professional opportunities, and access to external fellowships, students can pursue advanced research and scholarship without financial barriers.