I've been offered an assistantship position. When will I received my first paycheck? Will I have to pay any tax, and if so, at what rate?
The first payperiod starts in early August; the first paycheck is issued near the end of August, provided you arrive in time to sign your contract prior to the start of the first payperiod. You will receive a paycheck every two weeks. These are distributed in the department's FAS Office. The last paycheck for the academic year will be in mid-June. Research assistants may get additional supplemental compensation for the summer months. This should be discussed with your faculty advisor. A number of summer teaching assistantship positions are also available during the summer. All pay for summer is in addition to the amounts quoted in your letter of admission.
You must ask the Payroll Office (http://www.fso.arizona.edu/fso/payroll.asp) questions about taxes. There is no common tax rate. International students should inquire with Payroll Office about any tax treaty that might exist. Be advised that these treaties change often. You can also call Financial Services (http://www.fso.arizona.edu/) at 621-9097.