What is the federal work-study program?

Answer 1

Many college students participate in the Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program. The FWS Program provides employment for eligible students while they are enrolled in college. The FWS Program is based on financial need, and not everyone is eligible for this type of assistance. Read on to learn more about the Federal Work-Study Program.

What are the benefits of the Federal Work-Study Program?

If you are approved for the FWS Program, you can work on your college campus. This is very convenient for students (especially students who do not have transportation to travel off-campus). It is also a good idea to work on-campus because you can schedule your work hours around your class schedule. And you can stay on-campus all day until youre finished with your class and work schedule.

In addition, when you work on-campus, you have the opportunity to network with your peers and meet new people. Working on campus can also lead to other employment opportunities in the future (e.g. landing an internship in that department, or being offered a full-time job when you graduate from college).

How many hours can I work each week?

Generally speaking, if you are an undergraduate student you are allowed to work part-time in the FWS Program. On the other hand, graduate students may qualify to work in full-time Work-Study positions. However, the amount of hours you are allowed to work each week is determined by the amount of financial aid that you are awarded for that semester or quarter. Basically, you cannot earn more money than you were awarded in financial aid. Your financial aid counselor will provide you with that information once you are approved for the FWS Program.

What types of jobs are available with this program?

There are a variety of jobs that you can apply for if you are approved for the Federal Work-Study Program. For instance, many students apply for jobs at their college library, bookstore, or in food services. Some students even apply for administrative or clerical positions at their school. It is a good idea to locate a job that is related to your major of study. You can speak with your college instructors (or other department personnel) to find out if there are any Federal Work-Study positions available in that specific department.

Please note you do not have to work on-campus if you are approved for the FWS Program. If you choose to work at an off-campus site, it must be a federal, state, or local public agency; a private for-profit organization; or a private nonprofit organization.

How do I apply for the Federal Work-Study Program?

In order to apply for the FWS Program, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. You must provide information about you and your familys income, so the Federal Student Aid office can determine if you are eligible for financial aid. Your school will notify you once they receive the results of your application. If you are approved for the FWS Program, your financial aid counselor can help you locate an appropriate Work-Study job.