Graduate Stipends and Finances

photo of MSB, MBL, and Kresge at Western

button that links to Western application system for graduate studies


Graduate students in the Department of Biochemistry are paid a yearly stipend available through a variety of sources depending on their degree program.

PhD Students

As of September 1 2017, domestic PhD graduate students will receive a total financial package of $30,000, including a Teaching Assistantship position.

International PhD graduate students will receive a similar financial package including a Teaching Assistantship position. Please contact Biochemistry's Graduate Program for more details.

Thesis MSc Students

As of September 1 2017, MSc thesis students receive a stipend of up to $22,000 at the discretion of their supervisor. Applicants are asked to clarify their financial arrangements with potential supervisor(s) before committing to a position. Any financial arrangements agreed to will be included in an offer letter. MSc students are eligible to apply for available TA positions.

Non-thesis MSc Students

Non-thesis MSc students will not receive a stipend, but are eligible to apply for available TA positions.

Scholarships

The Department of Biochemistry offers several entrance awards that are offered annually to outstanding applicants. To be eligible, students must apply to the PhD program by Feb. 1st. These awards are partially funded through the Bishnu Sanwal and Theodore Lo Graduate Endowment Fund. A separate application is not necessary. Awards are made upon acceptance to the program.

A variety of competitive scholarship opportunities also exist. Details can be found on Western's Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies website under Student Finances. In addition, several awards are available through the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Tuition and Benefits

Tuition information can be found on the Office of the Registrar website. All graduate students gain unlimited access to the Western Student Recreation Centre that houses state-of-the-art facilities for aquatics, personal training, fitness and intramural sports. Graduate students are provided with an annual London Transit pass providing bus service across the city.

Housing and Living Finances

London has all the benefits of a major Canadian city without the high costs of living. Many apartments and houses for graduate students are located with walking distance of the campus. There is a large array of parks and conservation areas and biking paths. The city is home to major summer festivals, theatre and sports teams. In addition, London has an international airport with flights to most major cities and frequent train and bus service along the Windsor-Montreal corridor. For more information see Living in London and Preparing for Western.