Federal Work-Study FAQ

How do I get it?
Work/Study is awarded to you by the Financial Aid Office. If you have any questions about the criteria to qualify for the program, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

How do I use it?
Your Work/Study funds are earned by working on-campus in one of the many jobs available through our office.

How do I get a Work/Study job?
The Student Employment Office is here to help you find a job. We have listings of all the jobs that are currently open on-campus in convenient job binders, or you can search on-line.

How does Work/Study help me find a job?
Under the Work/Study program, the department employing you pays only a percentage of your wages, and the rest is paid out of work/study funds. As a result, it makes you a more desirable prospective employee.

How much can I earn?
You are able to earn up to your total work/study amount. With your supervisor's approval, you may continue to work, but the department employing you will pay the full amount of your paycheck. You should monitor your earnings to make sure that you do not exceed your award. As you approach your limit, you can contact the Student Employment Office for information on what to do next.

Is the money I earn mine?
Yes. Under most circumstances students may keep their work/study earnings for personal expenses. Occasionally, however, it may be necessary to use it for payments to your student account.

How do I know how much I've earned?
Your check stub will show how much you've earned for the current pay period and for the calendar year. You can also stop by our office to check how much you've earned in Work-Study for the current academic year (our records will reflect earnings up to the 26th of the previous month.)

What if I still have questions about work/study?
If you still feel a little unsure about the work/study program and how it works stop by and see us. If you'd rather call or e-mail us with your questions. See our Contact Us page for phone numbers and email addresses.

Is FWS Earnings taxable?
Yes, FWS Earnings are taxable and you will be issued a W-2 at the end of the year.