All students accepted into the program receive a stipend, which increases yearly (starting 7/1/2011, the amount is $26,500*), plus full tuition, and health and dental insurance.  Students who win competitive awards such as NSF predoctoral fellowships or UVA Merit Fellowships are eligible to receive a merit supplement of up to $3,000 (for a maximum stipend of $29,500 in 2011-2012). A yearly allotment for travel to scientific meetings or courses is available depending on program policies.

Implementation and continuation of financial support and/or merit supplements is contingent upon full time enrollment at the University of Virginia and satisfactory performance in both research and academic classes as judged by the student's PhD Mentor, Graduate Program, and Associate Dean.

Students in the graduate programs are full members of the university community, and have available to them the entire range of university educational, entertainment and recreational opportunities.