<p>I just assumed that for all the BMS Ph.D. programs I'm applying to, tuition is paid by the university and students are paid a stipend (as stated on their websites). However, I noticed a few applications ask about financial aid (Stanford and Boston University). For example: "Are you applying for financial aid such as fellowships or assistantships from Stanford University?" I put no because I don't think my parents qualify for financial aid, and I thought it didn't matter because I've always heard tuition is taken care of. Now I'm wondering if I'm wrong and I should have put "yes" ... crap.</p>
<p>The question is not specific to biology programs. There are some fields in which students receive far less financial support. However, you are guaranteed paid tuition and a stipend in all top-tier biology/biomedical graduate programs. A quick check of academic program information would confirm this.</p>
<p>I almost hesitate to say this, because it might be way off base, but my understanding is that the schools want to know if you’re going to be getting any additional funds from outside sources. If you are, that’s less money they need to give you, which makes you a more attractive candidate.
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Maybe? That’s what I always thought, maybe someone else can shed more light on the subject.</p>
<p>While that is true, that’s a different question from “Will you be applying for financial aid from our institution?”</p>
<p>While I would have recommended to check “yes,” I don’t think it will matter. Every entering student, with the exception of the few that get special fellowships/awards, usually gets the same package.</p>
<p>For the record, most students of graduate school age are considered financially independent, so your parents’ income does not come into play anymore – unless you are applying to medical school.</p>
<p>OK, I’ll just leave it then. I’m not sure why they ask if they give you a package anyways. At least it makes sense that they ask if you’re applying for outside funding. Oh well, now I just have to cross my fingers and hope for interviews! </p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>The funds that a program will use to provide your tuition remission and stipend come from various sources – from the NIH (in the form of program-wide training grants), from the school, or from the program itself. Often the program is interested to know whether you might qualify for a school scholarship, so they won’t have to find a spot for you on a training grant or pay for you out of their own funds. </p>
<p>I agree with kryptonsa36 that this question is probably really intended for students applying for other types of programs.</p>