How does RA TA work

[scofield24]

I'm not applying to any fellowships, just RA/TA position.

Do schools usually have separate application for those? Aside from the regular grad school applications, I can't seem to find the applications for TA/RA. I am doing Ph.D.

Thanks!

[fuzzylogician]

It might depend on the field. In my field normally you don't need to apply separately, if you're accepted you are required to do TA/RA work as part of your funding package. These things are always stated clearly on the department website.

[juilletmercredi]

Depends on the program and department. I'm in an interdisciplinary program that straddles two departments. In one department, RAships and TAships are automatic and part of the funding package - everyone RAs, and everyone TAs at least one semester a year. In the other department, they're both more of a voluntary thing. While almost everyone RAs for someone, not everyone TAs, and TAships are additional pay on top of the funding package. You do have to apply separately for those.

Also, outside of the department there are opportunities to RA and TA that aren't automatic and do require separate applications. Sometimes departments run short and advertise to other departments that they need TAs.