Learn about the Federal Work-Study Program

Choosing your work-study job

Some schools match students to work-study jobs, but other schools require students to apply and interview for them. The benefit of applying and interviewing is that you have the opportunity to choose jobs that match your skills and interests. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to get extra practice interviewing.

The Federal Work-Study Program emphasizes employment in civic education and work related to your course of study, whenever possible.

Work-study vs a part-time job

Here are a few benefits of work-study compared to another part-time job.

Easy commute
Many jobs are on campus, which—for some students—means they won’t need a car. You could save money on gas and get to and from work-study quickly.

Interesting jobs
You may be able to find a position that suits your skills and interests—whether it be at the gym, the library, the career counseling office, etc.

Flexible hours
Schools offer jobs that fit around your class schedule (studies always come first).

Connections
Through the work-study program, you may get exposure to faculty, staff, and other on-campus people you might not meet otherwise.

Work-study wages & taxes^{footnote 2}

Work-study wages are generally subject to federal and state income tax, if you’re enrolled in school full-time and work less than half-time.

When applying for federal financial aid each year, work-study earnings from the full calendar year should be included in your FAFSA.

Federal Work-Study earnings do not hurt a student’s chances of getting federal student aid the following year, as they are reported separately on the FAFSA.^{footnote 3}

Work-study limitations

Most of the jobs the Federal Work-Study Program offers are paid on an hourly basis. Work-study students earn at least the current federal minimum wage, but total earnings may also depend on when you apply and your level of financial need.

There is a limit to the number of hours work-study students can work. It depends on your total award. In other words, you can earn up to a predetermined amount.