B. Work-Study

• Federal Work-Study

You can work part-time while you're in school, and you can be an undergraduate or a graduate student. Our program is called Federal Work-Study and is administered by schools participating in the program. We provide those schools a certain amount of Work-Study funds each year; when all funds have been awarded, no additional Work-Study awards can be made for that year.

What kinds of jobs are there?

The program encourages community service work and work related to each student's course of study.

Federal Work-Study jobs can be on or off campus. If you work on campus, you'll usually work for your school. If you work off campus, your employer will usually be a private nonprofit organization or a public agency, and the work performed must be in the public interest.

Some schools might have agreements with private for-profit employers for Federal Work-Study jobs. These jobs must be relevant to your course of study, to the maximum extent possible. If you attend a proprietary school, there might be further restrictions on the jobs you can be assigned.

How much will I make?

You'll earn at least the current federal minimum wage, but the amount might be higher depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. Your total Federal Work-Study award depends on when you apply, your level of financial need, and your school's funding level. Apply early so you'll have a better chance of receiving Federal Work-Study funds.

How will I be paid?

Undergraduate student—by the hour

Graduate student—by the hour or by salary, depending on the work you do

Your school must pay you at least once a month. Also, your school must pay you directly unless you request that the school make payments to your bank account or use the money to pay for your education-related institutional charges such as tuition, fees, and room and board.

Can I work as many hours as I want?

No. The amount you earn can't exceed your total Federal Work-Study award. Also, when assigning work hours, your employer or financial aid administrator will consider your class schedule and your academic progress.