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Explore Work-Study

Types of Financial Aid.
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Work-Study. A great option for students.

As you explore your award letters, you might see a work-study dollar amount in your aid package. This valuable element of Federal Aid provides exciting part-time job opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students who show financial need and have college expenses. It’s a fantastic way to earn money while studying!

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Federal Work-Study

The Federal Work-Study Program is a fantastic opportunity that offers financial support to college students in need, allowing them to earn while they learn through meaningful work experiences.

 

Eligibility
  • To qualify for work-study, you must submit your FAFSA each year.
  • Since funds are limited, funds are awarded based on need, the school’s level of funding, and when the student applies for financial aid.
Amount
A student’s earnings from their Work-Study position will match the generous amount awarded by their school, fostering valuable experiences!
Compensation

  • Students participating in the Federal Work-Study program will earn at least the federal minimum wage.

  • Undergraduate students are paid an hourly wage.

  • The Work-Study program requires that schools pay students at least once per month and must pay the student directly unless he/she requests their wages be applied to tuition, fees, or deposited into their bank account.

  • Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for this program.

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How does it work?

Work-Study offers fantastic opportunities for students to earn money while pursuing their studies. With flexible on-campus jobs that fit around class schedules, students can find meaningful roles, though pay and available positions may differ by college.

 

Work-study is Not
Work-Study is not a reduction/discount of tuition costs or the cost of education.
Applied Funds
Funds are not applied directly to your tuition.
Wages
Students who are awarded work-study receive the funds in a paycheck based on hours.
Amount Awarded
The student will be paid directly for the work and the earnings cannot exceed the total amount awarded by the school for the award year.
To Qualify
  • Complete the FAFSA yearly.
  • Select that they're interested in work-study on the FAFSA application.
  • Have financial need.
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Work-Study | Advantages

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Work Experience

Work-study jobs are a fantastic way for students to gain valuable experience that will help them land jobs after graduation. It's a great opportunity to learn while you earn!

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Financial Aid

Earning money through work-study can be a great way to boost your finances and make college more affordable. It’s a fantastic opportunity to help you lower your future student debt!

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Convenience

On-campus jobs are a great option for students living on campus. They allow students to earn extra money while balancing classes and activities.

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Flexible Hours

You can easily schedule work-study jobs to fit around your class schedule, making it convenient for you!

Work-Study | Disadvantages

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Limited Hours

Work-study jobs typically limit student work hours and lower wages can make managing the added stress of school and work difficult. Nonetheless, they offer valuable experience.

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Compensation

Work-study jobs offer great opportunities, but they often come with low salaries, making it hard to manage daily expenses and enjoy leisure activities. 

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Limited Options

Work-study jobs differ from regular jobs as students cannot choose their positions, which may lead to unexpected roles and interesting experiences.

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Limitations for Freshman

Many colleges limit work-study hours for first-year students to encourage them to focus on their studies. Consequently, some students may struggle to find a suitable program.

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