International graduate students might encounter unexpected expectations when taking a role as a teaching assistant. The Graduate Teaching Assistant Program offers several resources including an orientation in August.

Here are a few resources for international teaching assistants:

MSU's Graduate Assistantship page

General information about assistantships including assistantship levels, leave information, stipend rate and more.

MSU Speaking Test

The MSU Speaking Test is used to determine whether graduate students who have demonstrated English proficiency or obtained a waiver of the English proficiency requirement as a condition for regular admission to Michigan State University also meet MSU’s speaking proficiency requirement for teaching assistants. 

MSU Policy Affecting International Teaching Assistants

Includes English Language Testing, Appeal Procedure by Review Board and more.

International Teaching Assistant Program through the English Language Center (ELC)

The International Teaching Assistant Program helps prepare non-native English speaking international graduate students to function effectively as teaching assistants in their departments.

ELC Language Support Courses for International Graduate Students (PDF flyer) - Effective Oral Communication | Field-Specific Academic Writing

GTA Email Communication

Once you are a GTA or International GTA you will automatically be added to the GTA email list and periodically receive updates about ongoing professional development opportunities.

Please contact Dr. Stefanie Baier at GTA@grd.msu.edu with any questions regarding the Graduate Teaching Assistant Program.