President's Message: 2025-2026 Graduate Assistant Increases

Dear FSU Graduate Assistant,

The university is proud to acknowledge the vital role you play in advancing our mission. In appreciation of your ongoing service and the impact you make across campus, we’re pleased to announce a competitive wage adjustment for all eligible graduate assistants.

Eligible graduate assistants will receive a 2% increase in the rate of pay, prorated by FTE (Full-Time Equivalent), effective October 24, 2025, and reflected in the November 14 paycheck. 

In recognition of our continued commitment to providing competitive rates, I am pleased to announce an increase in the minimum stipend rate, effective October 24, 2025. Graduate assistants on a 0.50 FTE academic year appointment are guaranteed a minimum stipend of $19,074.  Each graduate assistant on a 0.25 FTE academic year appointment is guaranteed the listed minimum stipend of $9,537.
Additionally, each eligible graduate assistant with at least a 0.50 FTE appointment will receive a one-time, non-recurring bonus in the amount of $1,300, less applicable taxes and deductions. Each eligible graduate assistant with an appointment between 0.25 FTE and 0.49 FTE will receive a one-time, non-recurring bonus of $650, less applicable taxes and deductions. The bonus will be reflected in the paycheck dated December 12, 2025.

Please note, the university will continue to pay a portion of the student health insurance premium for individual coverage at the same proportional percentage as the 2024-2025 academic year for eligible graduate assistants. The university continues to provide fee relief, per semester, in the amount of $250 for a graduate assistant on a 0.50 FTE appointment and $125 for a graduate assistant on an appointment between 0.25 FTE and 0.49 FTE.

A separate communication from the Office of Human Resources will be sent to Deans, Directors, and Department Heads in the coming days, addressing departmental funding sources and other requirements.
Thank you for your dedication and efforts to elevate Florida State’s reputation as one of the nation’s top public research universities. Our success in fostering academic excellence and supporting students is a direct result of your unwavering commitment.

Sincerely,

Richard McCullough
President, Florida State University