AUSTIN (KXAN) — Dozens of UT graduate students graded papers Monday in a new, unified location, rallying at the University Tower to ask for better pay and to cover the full cost of tuition.

Students held a “grade-in “on the second flood of the UT Tower, grading papers outside of Provost Maurie McInnis’ office.

Supporters say UT grad students only make about $15,000 per year, and the tuition waivers they receive are not enough to cover tuition fees.

They say grad students at other top universities receive full tuition waivers in exchange for working as teacher assistants and research assistants.

“The cost of living has increased in Austin. It’s not fair to promise to pay tuition then have this extra bill for every semester for graduate students,” UT grad student Erika Slaymaker said.

Earlier this month, nearly 500 graduate students and supporters held a similar rally.

At the time, University Provost McInnis responded by saying the University is working on a comprehensive plan to address funding issues for graduate students, including recently adding a task force to come up with solutions.