What Is the Federal College Work-Study Program?

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is a federal financial aid initiative designed to help eligible undergraduate and graduate students with demonstrated financial need finance their post-secondary education through part-time employment opportunities. FWS positions can be located both on campus and off campus, often with non-profit organizations or public agencies. The program is administered by participating educational institutions, which facilitate job placements and manage the disbursement of funds.

Understanding Eligibility for Federal Work-Study

Eligibility for the Federal Work-Study program hinges primarily on a student’s demonstrated financial need, which is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA collects a student’s financial information, allowing the institution to calculate their Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and subsequently their financial need. Students must also be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible degree or certificate program at a participating institution to qualify for FWS.

Maintaining satisfactory academic progress (SAP) according to the institution’s policies is another requirement for continued FWS eligibility. SAP typically involves meeting minimum standards for grade point average (GPA) and progressing toward degree completion. General federal aid requirements include being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, possessing a valid Social Security number, and not being in default on any federal student loans.

Applying for and Securing a Work-Study Position

Applying for Federal Work-Study begins with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students must indicate their interest in the FWS program directly on the FAFSA form to be considered for an award. Submitting the FAFSA early is recommended, as FWS funds are limited and typically awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

After reviewing the FAFSA, the school’s financial aid office will include any FWS offer as part of the student’s financial aid award letter. This award is an offer to earn funds, not a guaranteed payment; students must secure a job to receive the money. Students typically search for FWS job openings through university job boards, career services, or direct outreach to departments. Off-campus opportunities are also available, and students apply for specific positions and undergo interviews like any other job applicant.

The Work-Study Experience and Payment

Federal Work-Study jobs encompass a wide range of roles, including administrative support, research assistance, library aide positions, and various community service activities such as tutoring or working with vulnerable populations. These positions are part-time and flexible, allowing students to balance work responsibilities with academic schedules, typically working 10 to 20 hours per week during the academic year.

Students can earn up to the total amount of their FWS award, outlined in their financial aid package. Once this earning limit is reached, students can no longer be paid through the FWS program for that award year. FWS earnings are paid directly to the student through regular paychecks for hours worked. While students can authorize their school to apply FWS funds directly to tuition or other billed expenses, the money is primarily intended for day-to-day needs.

FWS earnings are generally considered taxable income and are reported on federal income tax returns. For detailed guidance on the taxability of educational benefits, students can refer to IRS Publication 970.