Prospective Graduate Students
Explore & Apply
Our Charge
Preparing and inspiring scholars to transform our world.
From admission to graduation, The Graduate School (TGS) supports graduate students throughout their experience, awarding doctoral and master’s degrees in more than seventy disciplines. We are a resource throughout your academic journey.
Find Your ProgramApplication StepsPoints of Pride
See what makes TGS special, by the numbers
Competitive Stipend
$45,000
annually in the 2024–25 academic year for PhD students through fellowships or assistantships. More on stipend rates
Support for Families
12 weeks
paid parental leave for PhD students who are new parents, childcare grants, and more. All family resources
A smooth transition
34%
of students are international, supported through language and other programs. See all supports
Connected to Campus & City
7 miles
between our Evanston campus and Chicago. Travel at a discounted rate on CTA buses and trains. U-Pass transit programs
Funding Your Studies
Fellowships, grants, assistantship options, and more
TGS provides most doctoral students with a stipend and scholarship to pay tuition costs; they are supported for a minimum of five years. For master’s students, external grants and loans make graduate study accessible.
Funding OptionsTGS Spotlight
TGS is home to more than 3,500 PhD and 1,900 master’s students, from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds. Get to know our community.
Happenings at TGS
Don't miss news, opportunities and announcements.
News
Alumnae of Northwestern University 2025–26 Graduate Fellowship
The Alumnae of Northwestern University offers this fellowship to Northwestern graduates who show promise of achieving distinction in their field and bringing credit to the University. Awardees will receive from $10,000–$20,000 toward graduate tuition. Criteria for selection include quality of scholarship, leadership, community service, professional experience, and financial need.
Announcements
Spring Quarter 2025 TGS U-Pass Access and Transit Card Fee
To ensure your U-Pass is created and activated on Tuesday, April 1 (the start of the Spring Quarter), please complete the Spring Quarter opt-in form by Friday, March 7 (for new U-Pass holders) or by Thursday, March 27 (for current U-Pass holders).
Alumnae of Northwestern University 2025–26 Graduate Fellowship
The Alumnae of Northwestern University offers this fellowship award to Northwestern graduates who show promise of achieving distinction in their field and bringing credit to the University. Apply by Friday, April 11, 2025.