The University of Tennessee Graduate Research Assistantship represents a premier opportunity for domestic and international students to pursue advanced degrees within the School of Natural Resources.
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This fully funded program is designed to support scholars who are passionate about the economic and social dimensions of conservation. By providing a comprehensive financial package that includes a substantial living stipend and a complete waiver of tuition fees, the university ensures that research students can focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
This initiative highlights the University of Tennessee’s commitment to fostering global talent and producing impactful research that addresses modern environmental and economic challenges.
University of Tennessee Graduate Assistantship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | University of Tennessee (School of Natural Resources) |
| Degree Level | Masters (MS) and PhD |
| Eligible Fields | Economics Policy or Social Science dimensions of Conservation |
| Scholarship Value | $35,328 Annual Stipend |
| Tuition Coverage | 100% Tuition Waiver |
| Language Requirement | No IELTS or TOEFL Required |
| Application Deadline | April 15 2026 |
About the University of Tennessee Scholarship
The Graduate Research Assistantship at the University of Tennessee is a merit-based funding model where students contribute to departmental research while earning their degree.
The School of Natural Resources actively seeks diverse perspectives from around the globe to enrich their study of conservation economics and policy. Unlike traditional scholarships that may only cover partial costs, this assistantship is a complete financial solution covering living expenses, insurance, and all academic fees.
Selected candidates work closely with esteemed faculty members such as Neelam C. Poudyal to conduct high-level social science research that influences environmental policy both locally and internationally.
The Benefits of University of Tennessee Scholarships 2026
Tier 1: Primary Financial Support and Tuition Coverage
- Full Tuition Waiver: All selected Masters and PhD candidates receive a 100% waiver of tuition fees for the duration of their funding period.
- Annual Living Stipend: Students are provided with a consistent yearly stipend of $35,328 to cover personal living costs and housing.
Tier 2: Health and Wellness Provisions
- Medical Insurance: The university provides comprehensive health insurance coverage as part of the assistantship package ensuring students have access to necessary medical care.
- Professional Stability: The funding is anticipated for 2 years for MS students and 3 years for PhD candidates providing long term security.
Tier 3: Academic and Research Advantages
- Research Resources: Scholars gain access to the School of Natural Resources technical facilities and data sets.
- Mentorship: Assistantships involve direct collaboration with senior researchers helping students build a professional network in the USA.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Tennessee Graduate Assistantship 2026
- Academic Background: Applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree for MS or a Master’s degree for PhD with a strong academic record shown in college transcripts.
- Research Interest: Candidates must demonstrate a clear interest in economics, policy, or social science dimensions of conservation.
- Study Status: Applicants must be prepared to enroll as full-time graduate students at the University of Tennessee.
- International Eligibility: This opportunity is open to students from all countries and notably does not require English proficiency test scores like IELTS or TOEFL.
How to Apply for University of Tennessee Graduate Assistantship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Research Program Alignment: Visit the School of Natural Resources website to ensure your research interests align with conservation economics or policy.
- Prepare a Cover Letter: Draft a formal “Expression of Interest” letter outlining your academic background and why you are a fit for the assistantship.
- Update Academic CV: Create a comprehensive CV highlighting your research experience, publications (if any), and academic achievements.
- Compile Transcripts: Gather unofficial digital copies of all your undergraduate and previous graduate transcripts.
- Format Documents: Ensure all files are in PDF format and clearly named (e.g., “FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf”) for easy identification.
- Initial Outreach: Send your CV, cover letter, and transcripts via email to Professor Neelam C. Poudyal at npoudyal@utk.edu.
- Interview Invitation: If your profile matches the department’s needs, you will receive an invitation for a virtual interview via Zoom or Teams.
- Attend Technical Interview: Discuss your research interests and potential contributions to the social science dimensions of conservation with the faculty.
- Formal Graduate School Application: Upon successful interview, follow the instructions provided by the professor to submit a formal application through the UTK Graduate School portal.
- Accept Offer: Once the graduate school verifies your credentials, you will receive a formal offer letter detailing the $35,328 stipend and tuition waiver.
Application Deadline: April 15 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
1. Is the University of Tennessee scholarship open to international students?
Yes, the graduate assistantship is open to qualified applicants from all countries worldwide.
2. Do I need to provide an IELTS or TOEFL score?
No, the University of Tennessee School of Natural Resources does not require these English proficiency certificates for this specific opportunity.
3. What is the total value of the annual stipend?
The annual stipend provided for living expenses is $35,328 for both Masters and PhD students.
4. Are tuition fees covered by the scholarship?
Yes, the assistantship includes a full waiver of all tuition fees for the duration of the program.
5. What are the specific fields of research for this funding?
The research focuses on the economics, policy, or social science dimensions of conservation.
6. How long does the funding last for a Masters student?
Funding for a Master of Science student is typically anticipated for a period of 2 years.
7. How long is the PhD funding period?
PhD candidates are generally provided with funding support for a period of 3 years.
8. Who is the contact person for the application?
Interested candidates should email their application materials to Neelam C. Poudyal at npoudyal@utk.edu.
9. What documents are required for the initial application?
You must submit an expression of interest, a current CV, and unofficial copies of all your college transcripts.
10. When is the final deadline to apply for 2026?
The deadline to submit your expression of interest and documents is April 15, 2026.
