Student Finances

Funding at Western

Western University offers various funding opportunities for thesis-based MSc and PhD students in the Department of Computer Science. Funding varies depending on the program and student status (domestic or international). Below is a detailed overview.

Funding Summary by Program Type

Program Type Domestic Students International Students
MSc – Thesis-Based Minimum funding support typically includes GTA, WGRS, and supervisor support. Covers tuition and provides a modest living stipend. Similar structure, but students are responsible for a portion of international tuition fees. Additional external funding may be needed.
PhD Fully funded through a combination of GTA, WGRS, and supervisor support. Similar funding model as domestic. 
MSc – Course-Based No funding provided. Students must be fully self-funded. No funding provided. Students must be fully self-funded, including all tuition and living costs.

Typical Funding Sources (Thesis-Based Students)

Source Description
Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) Monthly Paid position assisting with undergraduate courses (up to 10 hours/week in Fall and Winter).
Western Graduate Research Scholarship (WGRS) Institutional funding support awarded to thesis-based students.
Supervisor Funding Support from research grants—amounts vary depending on the supervisor and project.
External Scholarships Includes OGS, NSERC, and international awards. Students are encouraged to apply where eligible.

 

Summer Term Funding

Student Type Summer Term Support
Thesis-Based (MSc/PhD) May receive supervisor funding (GTA not typically available in summer). Must maintain full-time status.
Course-Based No departmental funding available. Summer tuition still applies as the program is continuous.


Additional Resources


 

As of Fall 2024

Per Year (3 terms)
STUDENT Income Tuition (Approx.) Balance
MSc Cdn, PR, thesis program $24,189 $8,813 $15,376
MSc Int'l, thesis program $32,789 $23,356 $9,433
MSc Cdn, PR, Coursework program $0.00 $8,813 -$8,813
MSc Int'l - Coursework program $0.00 $23,356 -$23,356
PhD Cdn, PR $26,199 $8,813 $17,386
PhD Int'l $26,799 $9,571 $17,228

** MSc students are guaranteed funding for 5 terms (if all requirements are being met)
** PhD students are guaranteed funding for 4 years (if all requirements are being met)