What You Should Know About Federal Work-Study Jobs

With the rising costs of college education, even with scholarships and in-state tuition, many students are seeking ways to finance their studies and minimize debt. The federal work-study program offers part-time job opportunities to college students, helping to ease the financial burden.

In this article, we’ll cover what work-study is, essential details about the program, and tips on how to secure work-study jobs in today’s job market.

Key Takeaways

• You must apply for the federal work-study program each year when completing your FAFSA application.

• Federal work-study jobs can be available both on-campus and off-campus.

• Once awarded federal work-study, you need to actively seek and apply for jobs.

What Is Work-Study?

The federal work-study program is a government initiative designed to assist both undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs by providing part-time employment. Earnings from these jobs can help cover tuition, books, transportation, and other living expenses.

Work-study positions may be located on campus or off-campus, and students can work for their educational institutions or for public agencies at various levels, depending on local job availability. Nonprofit organizations also offer work-study positions.

Both part-time and full-time students can access this financial aid, which helps reduce student loan debt.

What You Should Know About the Work-Study Program

• Approximately 3,400 institutions participate in the federal work-study program. This includes a variety of colleges, universities, and professional schools.

• The U.S. Department of Education manages the program and allocates federal funds to participating institutions. The funds awarded depend on the student’s financial need and the availability of work-study jobs.

• Federal work-study jobs must pay at least the federal minimum wage. Be aware that earnings are taxable and must be reported on your tax returns.

• To start your journey towards securing a work-study job, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Indicate your interest in the work-study program on your application to be considered for opportunities at your institution.

  You can complete the FAFSA form online through the Department of Education’s website and submit it to your chosen school.

• Eligible students may receive various financial aid awards. The amount awarded will depend on:

  1. The funding amount allocated to your institution

  2. Your level of financial need

  3. The timing of your application – applying early increases your chances of receiving aid

• Your earnings should not exceed the awarded work-study amount.

  Your institution’s financial aid office or employer will determine your work hours based on this limit, considering your academic schedule and progress. Maintaining a good GPA is crucial.

• Both your institution and the federal government contribute to your pay in the federal work-study program.

  Sometimes, the government covers most or all of the costs. The best part is that you don’t have to repay this money since you earn it through work.

• Receiving federal work-study funds does not guarantee you a job. You must actively seek employment, just as you would without this program. Ensure that the job you find qualifies for work-study.

• Being awarded federal work-study for one year doesn’t guarantee it for the following years. You need to reapply annually. Changes in your financial eligibility, unutilized funds from the previous year, or reduced federal allocations to your school might affect your eligibility.

  To maximize your chances of receiving work-study funds each year, submit your FAFSA promptly and express your interest in the program.

How to Find Work-Study Jobs

Proactively searching for work-study positions is essential.

Securing a federal work-study grant does not guarantee employment, so if your institution does not provide a job, you’ll need to look for opportunities independently. Utilize multiple job search strategies.

Once you’ve identified openings, apply and prepare for interviews. Successfully passing an interview will lead to job placement and associated funding.

Factors to Consider When Looking for Work-Study Jobs

When searching for work-study jobs, consider these factors:

• Distance from campus. On-campus jobs offer convenience but can be highly competitive. If seeking off-campus opportunities, choose positions within a reasonable commute to balance work and study commitments.

• Payment amount. All work-study jobs must meet minimum wage requirements, but aim for higher-paying positions that allow you to earn your target amount in less time, giving you more opportunities to study and enjoy college life.

  Consider that some employers pay hourly, while others offer salaries. Generally, undergraduates receive hourly pay, while graduate students may receive either.

• Enjoyment and relevance. Reflect on your career aspirations when applying for jobs. Securing work in your desired field can help you acquire relevant skills, boost your resume, and enhance job satisfaction.

• Networking opportunities. Building relationships with industry professionals can be beneficial, especially in competitive fields. Choose jobs that align with your career goals to expand your network.

The connections you make during your work-study experience can lead to future job recommendations and opportunities.

Types of Jobs You Can Do as Part of Your Work-Study Program

Ideally, your work-study job should align with your field of study or utilize transferable skills. Many positions aim to benefit the community. Here are some examples of work-study roles:

• Teaching tasks. If you excel academically, consider tutoring or teaching assistant roles on campus or with nonprofits focused on literacy and education.

• Administrative tasks. Work-study students can assist in running campus offices or external organizations, handling calls, emails, and managing paperwork.

• Research tasks. You may find opportunities as a research assistant, working in libraries or labs, particularly if you demonstrate strong academic performance.

• Student life tasks. Options include being a campus tour guide or resident assistant, enhancing campus life for fellow students.

• Fitness roles. If you’re athletic, consider positions at the campus gym, or as a lifeguard or fitness trainer.

The above are just a few examples of potential work-study roles. There are numerous options available, especially if you explore jobs outside of campus and in private organizations. Don’t limit yourself.

How You Will Get Paid

Work-study earnings offer flexibility in how you manage your finances, with several payment options available:

• Direct deposit into your student account. This is ideal for covering tuition and living expenses.

• Check. You’ll need to cash this at your bank, allowing you to allocate funds as needed.

• Direct deposit into a personal bank account. This option simplifies access to your earnings without needing to cash a check.

Final Thoughts

Many students weigh the financial costs of a college education as heavily as their academic needs. The price of college continues to rise, making financial planning critical.

In-state public colleges now average around $10,000 annually, while out-of-state students often face costs exceeding $21,000. Private colleges can be even more expensive, averaging $35,000.

Balancing tuition and living expenses can become overwhelming, potentially hindering your ability to complete your degree. This is where the federal work-study (FWS) program becomes invaluable.

One significant advantage of the federal work-study program is that the funds earned do not require repayment, unlike traditional student loans. You have the freedom to use your earnings as needed, without restrictions on spending.

Additionally, your work-study earnings will not affect your eligibility for financial aid the following year, allowing you to continue offsetting college expenses as long as you remain in the program.

When completing the FAFSA, don’t hesitate to report your previous year’s earnings. If you need assistance, your financial aid office can help you determine the amount.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.