A stipend is a fixed sum of money paid periodically for services or to defray expenses. It is often distinct from a wage or a salary because it does not necessarily represent payment for work performed. Instead it is often paid to individuals who are participating in an internship, apprenticeship, graduate work, or a fellowship, just to name a few.
A stipend may also be paid out on a less frequent basis than a regular paycheck; often, stipends are given once per month, or even as a lump sum once per semester.
Please Note: The income from stipends is reportable, per IRS regulations.