The Federal Work-Study Program
What is Federal Work-Study?
The Federal Work-Study Program provides jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to your course of study.
How much money can I earn?
Your Federal Work-Study earnings will be at least the current federal minimum wage, but may be higher depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. A Federal Work-Study award depends on the availability of funding at the institution, the institution's awarding policies for Federal Work-Study, when you apply, your level of need, and your commitment to obtaining a qualified Federal Work-Study position and performing the work required.
How will I be paid?
If you are an undergraduate student, you will be paid by the hour. If you are a graduate student, you may be paid by the hour, or you may receive a salary. A commission or fee cannot be paid to a student participating in the Federal Work-Study program. Unless you request that the school make payments to your bank account or use the money to pay for your institutional charges (e.g., fees, room and board), the school must pay you directly at least once a month.
Is a Federal Work-Study job on-campus or off-campus?
Both. If you work on campus, you will usually work for your school. If you work off campus, your employer will usually be a private, non-profit organization or a public agency, and the work performed must be in the public interest. Some schools may have agreements with private for-profit employers for Federal Work-Study jobs, which must be judged to be relevant to your course of study.
Can I work as many hours as I want?
No. The amount you earn cannot exceed your total Federal Work-Study award authorization. When assigning work hours, your employer or financial aid administrator will consider your class schedule and your academic progress.