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Federal Work Study

What

 

is

The Federal CollegeWork-Study Work Study?Program (FCWS) 

FWS)

Thisoffers programpart-time providesjob jobsopportunities for eligible students to earn income that helps cover educational expenses while attending college or career school. Students at both the undergraduate and graduate studentslevels who demonstrate financial need may participate. Work-Study positions can be on campus or with financialapproved need,off-campus allowingemployers themand, whenever possible, focus on community service or are related to earnthe moneystudent’s tofield helpof pay for college expenses. study.

 

How Do I apply for Federal College Work-studyStudy Funds? 

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov and indicate they are interested in the work-study program. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible as funds for this program are limited. Students must complete the FAFSA every year to receive FCWS.FWS. Receipt of FWCSFWS one year does not automatically imply that the student will receive FWCSFWS the next year. 

 

Types

Howof muchJobs
can

Federal IWork-Study earnplaces emphasis on FCWS?positions that involve community service or work connected to a student’s field of study. (Source: Federal Student Aid) 

 

Where Students Work

Jobs may be located:

  • On campus, usually working for the school itself.

  • Off campus, with a public or private nonprofit organization where the work must benefit the community.

Because funding is limited, students interested in Work-Study should complete the FAFSA as early as possible. (Source: Federal Student Aid)

 

Earnings

Students participating in Work-Study will beearn at least the current federal minimum wage.wage, Thethough totalsome amountjobs thatmay youpay earnmore will dependdepending on the role and required skill level. A student’s total earnings are determined by:

  • How early they apply for aid

  • Their financial need

  • The amount of Work-Study funding available

  • The number of hours that you work each week.

    • Most students work between 10 and 20 hours per week, and are paid every two weeks. 

(Source: Federal Student Aid)

 

How Students Are FCWSPaid

jobs

Payment methods differ based on orstudent offclassification:

campus? 

  • Both.Undergraduate Astudents workare studypaid jobhourly.

    must
    • always

  • Graduate and professional students may be forpaid hourly or receive a publicsalary ordepending privateon non-profitthe organization.job.

(Source: Federal Student Aid)

Students are paid every two weeks. Payment is applied to the student's account. Any excess funds will be processed as a refund by the Treasurer's Office. 

 

Work Hours

Students cannot work unlimited hours. Earnings may not exceed the total amount of the student’s Work-Study award. When assigning work schedules, the employer must consider the student’s class schedule and ensure that work does not interfere with academic progress. (Source: Federal Student Aid)

 

What are my responsibilities as a FCWSFWS worker? 

  • As a student worker, it is your responsibility to be willing to work and perform your assigned duties to the best of your ability. You must sell your service and should be prepared for an orientation session with a prospective employer. 
  • Some jobs require weekend work. If you accept employment, you must work the hours and time scheduled for you. 
  • You must be dependable, prompt and reliable in attendance and work the required period of time. 
  • If you must be absent from work, your supervisor should be notified prior to your scheduled work time. 
  • You should not expect to be allowed to study while at work. 

 

 

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