Federal Work-Study is a program that provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. It helps you earn money for school costs without taking on more debt.
How does it work?
If you qualify, work-study will appear in your financial aid offer as an amount you can earn, not money you receive upfront. You must find and get a work-study job, then you are paid for the hours you work, usually every two weeks.
Who qualifies?
- Students who file the FAFSA and show financial need
- Students attending a school that participates in the program
Tip: On the FAFSA, indicate that you are interested in work-study. Funds are limited, so filing early helps.
What kinds of jobs are available?
- Library assistant
- Campus tour guide
- Research or lab assistant
- Tutoring or mentoring
- Community service jobs off campus
Many schools try to match jobs to your field of study.
Benefits of work-study
- Flexible hours that fit around classes
- Work-study income does not count against you on next year’s FAFSA
- Resume experience and references
- Paychecks you can use for books, food and transportation
How to get a work-study job
- Accept the work-study award in your aid offer.
- Check your school’s job portal or student employment office.
- Apply early, as popular jobs fill fast.
- Complete hiring paperwork, including tax forms.
How much can you earn?
Your work-study award shows the maximum amount you can earn during the school year. For example, if your award is $2,500, you can earn up to that amount through your job. Once you reach that limit, your school may stop your work-study hours, move you to a regular student job, or let you keep working without work-study funding.
You will be paid at least the federal minimum wage, though many schools and states pay more. Your hourly rate may depend on the type of job and the skills required.
How many hours will you work?
Most students work between 10 and 20 hours per week. Your schedule is usually built around your classes, and supervisors are often understanding during exam weeks. To figure out how many hours you need, divide your award by your hourly wage and by the number of weeks in the school year.
Example: A $2,400 award at $15 per hour equals 160 hours. Over a 30-week school year, that is a little more than 5 hours per week.
How you are paid
Unlike grants, work-study money is not applied to your tuition bill automatically. You receive a paycheck, usually through direct deposit. You can use it however you like, but it is wise to use it for school-related costs like books, supplies, food and transportation. If you want your earnings applied to your tuition, ask your school whether that option is available.
Does work-study affect my taxes?
Work-study earnings are taxable income for federal income tax purposes, and you will receive a W-2 form. However, they are usually not subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes if you are enrolled at least half-time and working for your school. On the FAFSA, work-study income is reported in a way that does not reduce your future aid.
Work-study vs. a regular part-time job
| Feature | Work-study job | Regular job |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Need-based, through FAFSA | Open to anyone |
| Effect on future aid | Excluded from FAFSA income | Counts as income |
| Location | Usually on campus | Anywhere |
| Flexibility | Built around classes | Depends on employer |
| Pay rate | Often near minimum wage | May be higher |
Tips for balancing work and school
- Keep a weekly calendar with classes, shifts and study time.
- Choose a job where you can study during quiet times, such as a front desk or library position.
- Tell your supervisor about exam dates early.
- Do not work so many hours that your grades suffer, because poor grades can affect your aid.
Frequently asked questions
What if I cannot find a work-study job?
You will not receive the money. Contact your student employment office early for help and check back often, since new jobs open during the year.
Can I turn down work-study?
Yes. Declining it does not affect your other aid, though you may want to keep it in case you need extra income later.
Can graduate students get work-study?
Yes, if their school participates and they show financial need.
Community service work-study jobs
Schools that participate in Federal Work-Study are expected to use part of their funding for community service jobs. These positions may be off campus with nonprofit organizations or public agencies. Examples include tutoring children in local schools, helping at food banks, supporting literacy programs and working in health or community centers. These jobs can be very rewarding and look strong on a resume, especially if you plan to work in education, social services or public policy.
A real-world example
Sam received a $3,000 work-study award as a sophomore. He applied early for a job at the campus writing center, where he helped other students organize essays. He worked about 8 hours per week at $15 per hour, earning roughly $120 per week. Over the school year, his earnings paid for his books, his phone bill and most of his groceries. Because he did not need to borrow for these costs, he reduced his unsubsidized loan by $2,000. He also gained tutoring experience that helped him land a paid internship the next summer.
Making the most of your work-study job
- Arrive on time and treat it like any professional job.
- Ask your supervisor for new tasks to build skills.
- Request a reference letter before you leave the position.
- Add the job to your LinkedIn profile and resume with clear results.
Key takeaways
- Work-study is need-based and appears in your aid offer only if you qualify through the FAFSA.
- You must find a job and work the hours to receive the money.
- Earnings are paid as a paycheck and do not count against future FAFSA aid.
- Apply early, because popular campus jobs fill quickly.
Where to get help
Your school’s financial aid office and student employment office can answer questions about your award, job openings and pay schedule. Visit them early in the semester for the best results.
The bottom line
Work-study is a smart way to pay for some expenses without borrowing. If you see it in your aid offer, act quickly to find a job.