Although programs try to support graduate students through the average length of program, graduate assistants have no right to continuing support beyond the term of a current appointment. Renewal of an assistantship can only occur where funds are available, and where performance during the prior appointment has been reviewed and found to be acceptable.

When graduate assistants are not performing within acceptable standards, we encourage supervisors to communicate feedback to students in writing early and often during the appointment.

Because graduate students often rely upon support from assistantships, it is ideal to communicate intent to renew or to not renew an assistantship as early as is practical.