The changes, which will take effect this summer, represent a major commitment from the University during the first year alone, including $4.2 million for the first-year fellowship program and $1.8 million for the expanded summer stipend program.

First-year fellowships

Under the new initiative, all first-year students in the sciences and engineering will be supported by fellowships. About $16,000 is expected to be awarded to each student for 2001-02.

"The advantage for graduate students is that they will be able to learn about the department before they get paired with a research adviser or tied to a specific lab. They will have a chance to get their feet on the ground," said Provost Jeremiah Ostriker, who also is a professor of astrophysics. "We're confident that this type of an admission pattern will be very attractive to applicants and will enhance their educational experience."

Summer support

The expanded summer stipend program will allow doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences more time to continue work year-round, conducting dissertation research, preparing for general examinations, and taking language courses. All students can now apply for and receive funds ranging from $3,000 to $4,500 for summer 2001, depending on their status in the degree program.

Other initiatives

Improvements in medical coverage are in response to graduate student comments.

The University also has committed to the construction of additional graduate student housing.

Other measures affecting graduate students include:

* supporting ongoing and new activities in the Graduate School;

* funding for more comprehensive graduate student recruitment efforts;

* expanding services available through the Office of Career Services; and

* extending high-speed Internet access to additional graduate student housing in the summer of 2001.

Princeton's Graduate School, established in 1900, enrolls about 1,850 degree candidates in 37 departments and programs.

New initiatives at a glance

* An expanded fellowship program that will provide all first-year doctoral students in the sciences and engineering with full tuition and a stipend to assist with living expenses

* An expanded summer stipend program for all doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences

* A substantial budget increase for graduate student stipends, particularly for those receiving University-supported fellowships and for assistants in instruction (teaching assistants)

* A plan to improve graduate students' medical coverage

* A plan to build additional graduate student housing