How Work-Study Works - COLLEGEdata - Pay Your Way

How Work-Study Works

Want to work while you're in college to help pay expenses? A work-study job helps you do just that.

Work-study is a form of financial aid that offers you a part-time job, usually on campus. The smooth hiring process and flexible hours make a work-study job desirable to many students.

How Do You Get Work-Study?

You become eligible for work-study just like you do for all other forms of financial aid: by filling out and submitting your FAFSA. The college awards you work-study as part of your financial aid package. Once you start school, you'll find your work-study job through job banks or postings by the financial aid or college employment offices. In most cases, you will have the opportunity to interview with potential work-study employers. In the end, whether or not you are hired is up to the employer.

Why Choose a Work-Study Job Over Regular Employment?

The answer is simple. If you work a regular job, the government will reduce your financial aid eligibility by 50 percent of your earnings over $6,400. Earning $8,000, for example, would reduce your aid eligibility by $800. Income from a work-study job does not reduce your financial aid eligibility. And, with work-study, employers are required to consider your class schedule when assigning work hours, whereas regular employers are not.

What Are Typical Work-Study Jobs?

Typical on-campus work-study jobs include working in the library or bookstore, serving in the dining hall, and assisting with college events. Off-campus work-study usually benefits the public in some way and relates to your course of study, if possible. No matter what kind of job you get, be realistic when working out your schedule and allow yourself time not only for study but also for recreational and leisure activities.

How Much Can You Earn?

Your financial need determines the amount of work-study you are eligible for, and you can't earn more than the amount specified in your award letter. Your work-study earnings also depend on the type of work you'll be doing, the amount of money remaining in the college's work-study fund, your experience or skill level, and when you apply (there may be a deadline). Your salary is always at least as high as the federal minimum wage.

How Does Your Salary Get Paid?

Undergraduate students on work-study are paid by the hour and must be paid at least once a month. You can request that the college send your check directly to you so you can spend it how you wish, or you can ask them to deduct your payment from your college bill.

What's Next?
