As an applicant who needs funding, one of the most important things that you can do is to complete the Application for Graduate Awards and Appointments. By filling out this form, you alert the application committee to the fact that you would like to be paid while studying. Funding opportunities include teaching and research assistantships through various departments, as well as the elusive fellowship. It must be noted that teaching assistantships are the most common form of funding, and doctoral students usually teach beginning or intermediate language courses. More information about funding can be found on the Financial Assistance page of the University of Iowa Graduate College Admissions site.