Paycheck

The most important thing to know about your stipend is that you won't get your first paycheck until September 30^th, so make sure you have enough money to last you through the first month and a half in Boulder. Once you start getting paid, it's good to make sure you have budgeted for all your expenses. Paychecks only come out once a month, on the last business day (except in June, when checks are issued July 1). The first take-home paychecks will be around $1000-$1200 (depending on how you fill out your tax forms), and rent is usually around $500/month if you are sharing a place or $650 - $820/month if you have your own apartment.

Fees

When you first arrive, you'll also get a bill from the registrar's office for Student Fees. In previous years, there has been a $1500 award given to all students early in the first semester. Most of this goes towards Student Fees and you will get a check for the difference. If you do not get this stipend, expect to pay about $400 for university fees and an extra $600 or so for Health Insurance. This will continue each semester. In the summer, you will have to pay some optional summer fees for services such as the bus pass, rec center, and health center. Fees decrease after the second year when you pass your orals and become an official Ph.D. candidate.