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
$46,356
annually in the 2025–26 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
Spring Quarter 2026 U-Pass Access & Transit Card Fee
To ensure your U-Pass is created and activated on Tuesday, March 31 (the start of the Spring Quarter), please complete the Spring Quarter opt-in form by Monday, March 2 (for new U-Pass holders) or by Thursday, March 26 (for current U-Pass holders).Events
Last day for full term withdrawals to receive 100% refund, Schedu...
April 6, All Day
Last day for full term withdrawals to receive 100% refund, Schedule A programs except for Kellogg and Physician's Assist...
Spring Quarter 2026 Tuition Adjustment Deadline and Add/Swap Dead...
April 6, All Day
Spring Quarter 2026 Tuition Adjustment Deadline and Add/Swap Deadline (last day for tuition adjustment related to enroll...
Announcements
Q&A with John Matta, Campus Ministry Associate
John Matta is the campus ministry associate with Northwestern's chapter of Reformed University Fellowship – International, a Christian campus ministry that reaches international college students from all backgrounds.
OSL Spotlight: Northwestern Transportation Club
Northwestern Transportation Club is a community that brings together students interested in transportation and mobility. It provides opportunities to connect with peers, learn from one another, and visit transportation industry sites to gain real-world exposure to the field.