How Federal Work-Study works

Federal Work-Study lets students with financial need earn money through part-time jobs, usually on campus. This page explains what the award on your offer means and how to find a position. The program is federally funded, but your school runs it.

What the award means

A work-study amount on your aid offer is the most you can earn through the program that year. It does not arrive as a lump sum or come off your bill. You earn it hour by hour, once you are hired.

Schools have limited work-study funds, and they decide who receives an award. Checking the box on the FAFSA that says you are interested in work-study is the first step.

Finding a position

Accepting the award does not place you in a job. You apply for open positions the way you would for any other job, often through the school's student employment or career office.

Jobs may be in libraries, labs, offices or tutoring centers. Some schools also offer community service jobs with nonprofit or public agencies off campus. Ask early in the term, since popular positions fill quickly.

To get started

• Check the work-study box on your FAFSA
• Accept the award on your aid offer
• Search your school's student job listings
• Complete hiring and tax forms before your first shift

Pay, hours and your schedule

You are paid at least the federal minimum wage, and often the same rate as other campus jobs. Pay arrives as a regular paycheck, at least once a month. Some schools let you choose to apply earnings to your bill instead.

Your supervisor and the aid office track your earnings against the award. Hours are usually arranged around your classes. When you near your limit, the office can tell you whether more is available.

Other things work-study can affect

Taking part in work-study is one of the ways a college student may meet the student rule for SNAP food benefits. Your state SNAP agency makes that decision. Ask the aid office for a letter confirming your work-study award if the agency needs proof.

Work-study pay is taxable wages, so the school sends you a W-2 at the end of the year. Keep it with your other tax papers, since you may need it when you file a return.