Georgia State University - Graduate Computing Assistant

What the Graduate Computing Assistant gives you

You will receive a paid part-time job at Georgia State University in Atlanta as well as a monthly stipend (a fixed, regular payment) and, in most cases, an exemption from tuition fees. As a Graduate Computing Assistant (GCA), you will provide IT and technical support to the university’s departments, degree programmes and laboratories. You will work an average of up to 20 hours per week, which is equivalent to half a full-time position. The amount of the stipend is determined by the department hiring you and depends on your experience, your field of specialisation and your duties; there is therefore no standard fixed amount. Employment is on a termly, academic year or monthly basis, usually for up to 12 months.

There are two levels of tuition fee exemption. A full exemption covers your tuition fees. You will still be required to pay an administration fee of 37.50 USD, as well as any difference in tuition fees. To be eligible, you must enrol for at least 12 credit hours in the autumn or spring semester (9 in the summer semester) and receive a scholarship of at least 2,000 USD per semester. For a 50% waiver, a minimum of 6 credit hours and a scholarship of at least 1,000 USD per semester are required. The scholarship is taxable.

Who can apply

• Degree level: You are a currently enrolled PhD student at Georgia State University and are pursuing an academic degree.
• Field of study: Open to all disciplines; any registered PhD student may be appointed.
• Grades: You have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and have demonstrated good academic performance and exemplary conduct.
• Relevant skills: You have the skills and experience required for the IT and technical duties within the recruiting department.
• Work authorisation: You are permitted to work in the USA. International students may apply, but must adhere to the working hour restrictions specified in their visa.
• Programme approval: Your degree programme is approved by the relevant body, and you complete the necessary training, such as on FERPA and Title IX.

How to apply

Vacancies are advertised on ‘Handshake’, the University’s job portal. You can also contact the departments and faculties in your field of study directly to enquire about positions that have not been advertised. There is no standard, central application deadline; each recruiting department sets its own timetable.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a position for which you must apply, rather than a scholarship with a single application deadline. Your chances therefore depend on the vacancies available at the time and the extent to which your skills match the requirements of the relevant department. If you are already enrolled at Georgia State, have a grade point average of at least 3.0 and have relevant experience in the IT sector, contacting the relevant departments directly will give you a real advantage over simply waiting for job vacancies to be advertised. As vacancies arise throughout the year, it is more important to stay in touch with lecturers and check Handshake regularly than to focus on a single application round.