What is Work-Study? How do I Know if I Qualify

If you are a college student who still wants to make time for work, this guide can help.

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You’ve just returned from the mailbox with a thick envelope in your hands and your first choice college’s logo in the corner. You have a feeling that there’s good news inside, but there’s a catch. You’re unsure if you can afford tuition at your dream school without extra financial aid, and turning down this opportunity would break your heart.

A glance at your financial aid paperwork reveals something interesting. In addition to grants and scholarships, the school is offering you the opportunity to engage in a work-study program on campus.

The problem? You have no idea how work-study works.

The benefits of work-study far outweigh the negatives, giving students access to exciting professional opportunities while in school. We’ve created this guide to help you understand why a work-study job is one of the most valuable college financing options.

If you qualify for work-study, read on to learn everything there is to know about working your way to academic success.

What Is a Work-Study Job?

Work-Study is sometimes known as Federal Work-Study. To qualify for this needs-based funding, you must fill out the FAFSA during the college application process. The government will review your paperwork and re-determine your eligibility each year.

If the government ultimately determines you are eligible for work-study, you will see the funds reflected in your student financial aid information. You can only earn work-study if your college participates in the program. Speak to a financial aid representative from your chosen school to learn more.

It’s important to note that work-study funds do not automatically apply to tuition. Your employer will pay you for any work you do, like an employee at any other job. This means work-study money can go toward textbooks, classroom supplies, technology, or even pizza delivery.

To qualify, jobs must participate in the Federal Work-study program. Many positions will be right on campus. You might work in an administrative office, for an on-campus business, or directly for a faculty member.

You may also find work-study roles in the community through non-profit organizations. Large college towns typically have plenty of eligible positions to choose from. Applying for work-study positions is like applying for any other job and may involve an interview.

Finding a Work-Study Position

Finding the right work-study job often requires some initiative. Employers do not always advertise open roles. You will have to ask around, form connections, and take advantage of any online job search portals through your school.

You are only granted so many work-study hours each semester. Once you work the maximum number of hours, you may be unable to claim a paycheck. Some schools may allow you to continue working on “term-time,” subject to departmental funding.

Most work-study jobs will be part-time, and many employers will work with you to create a flexible schedule. Work-study employers understand the challenges of coordinating with students with full academic courseloads.

The nature of your role will determine when and how often you work. For example, a work-study student with a job in the registrar’s office will likely work during the school day between classes. A student working for the athletic department may work the evenings during campus games and matches.

A work-study student will rarely work more than 20 hours per week. All students receive the federal minimum wage or more. Some graduate students may earn a salary rather than an hourly rate.

Choosing the Right Work-Study Job

Ideally, your work-study job will relate to your field of study. It should help you gain professional experience in your chosen field. An education student might tutor, for example.

Occasionally, work-study roles can be challenging to find. The more demanding your schedule, the harder it can be to squeeze in hours. Some students work several work-study jobs on a part-time basis.

Likewise, some students need to work more hours to make ends meet. You can work an additional, non-work-study job in addition to a work-study position.

Here are the aspects to consider when choosing the ideal job for you:

• Working hours

• Flexibility

• Relevance to your field of study

• Location (on-campus vs. off-campus)

A role may still be worthwhile if it isn’t in your field. Many basic administrative skills are transferrable. Your future employers might appreciate the knowledge and experience you’ve gleaned from diverse settings.

Benefits of Work-Study

Work-study employers, like any employer, can provide references and write letters of recommendation leading to roles in the future.

Many students gain their first experiences in their chosen field through work-study. You’ll make connections with local non-profit organizations. These relationships can often yield internships for credit down the line.

Furthermore, having a bit of pocket money can make every aspect of college life more manageable. You won’t have to worry about paying for textbooks or supplies. Funds earned through work-study do not impact your FAFSA data, so you can accept payment for your hard work without worrying about your financial standing.

Work-Study Makes Education Accessible

You might be a little nervous about your new classes and their accompanying workload. Balancing work and academics does involve a slight learning curve. We’re confident you’ll find a rewarding work-study role that will help you meet your educational goals without compromising your fantastic college experience.