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)
