Which of the following best illustrates the characteristics of a stipend?

A stipend is typically a fixed, regular payment often associated with roles that are unpaid or voluntary, such as internships, fellowships, or roles in the educational field. It serves as a financial support mechanism to help cover expenses like housing or living costs, rather than as a salary for work performed on an hourly or salary basis as seen in traditional employment. This characteristic distinguishes stipends from regular wages or salaries, which are based on time worked or specific performance achievements.

In contrast, options that speak to hourly pay, performance bonuses, or mandated contractual payments reflect more traditional forms of compensation that would not accurately define a stipend's purpose or structure. Thus, the focus on unpaid or voluntary roles in the context of stipends underscores the unique nature of this financial arrangement.