The Graduate Student Association (GSA) is dedicated to enhancing the social, academic and professional development of graduate students at UMass Lowell. We aim to represent the needs and interests of graduate students while improving the overall graduate experience.
Purposes:
- To work for the academic, social, and economic advancement of all graduate students to promote better communication among graduate students and the entire University student body.
- To ensure appropriate representation of the graduate students in the affairs of the University pertaining to or affecting graduate education.
- To promote rapport among graduate students, faculty, and administration.
- To administer the use of all properties and funds under GSA control.
- To coordinate the functions of those student organizations which pertain to the membership of the GSA.
Graduate Student Organizations:
The GSA supports a vibrant range of professional and cultural clubs. These groups welcome all students, and provide meaningful ways to connect, share experiences, and find community.
Checkout CampusGroups for more information and to browse graduate student clubs.
Professional Development Fund:
The Graduate Student Professional Development Fund (PDF) is designed to support graduate students at UMass Lowell by providing a one-time grant for professional development opportunities. This fund consolidates the former Graduate Research and Graduate Academic Travel Awards (GRGA and GATA/PDA) into a single, streamlined resource to assist students in advancing their academic and career goals. This is a one-time single use grant with a maximum allocation of $1,000.
- Eligibility
- Applicants must be enrolled as graduate students at UMass Lowell and be in good academic standing.
- The request must directly support professional development (e.g., conference registration, travel, research materials, or training programs).
- Funding is available as a one-time grant per student per academic year.
- Application Process and Timeline
- Application form: The application form is located on GSA's page on CampusGroups under the Surveys & Forms tab.
- Application Submission: Applications must be submitted by April 1 each academic year to be considered. Applications will not be accepted or approved during June, July, and August months.
- Review Period: GSA will evaluate applications based on relevance, impact and available funding. This process typically takes 2–3 weeks.
- Approval and Notification: Applicants will receive notice regarding their application status. Approved applicants will receive instructions for accessing funds.
- Purchase and Documentation: Awardees must work with GSA to complete purchases. All spending must be completed by June 1. Reimbursements will not be accepted as a part of this process.
For a complete list of eligibility and to apply, please view the application form on the GSA CampusGroups page.
Where to find us:
Please join GSA on CampusGroups for more information, and to stay up to date on meetings and other resources we offer to graduate students.
Email: gsa@uml.edu