Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federally funded, need-based financial aid program that allows students with financial need to earn FWS funds through employment with authorized FWS employers. Federal work-study is considered employment and the income earned is taxable.
To be considered for FWS, undergraduate and graduate students must be matriculated in a degree-granting program, enrolled at least half time (minimum of 6 credits for undergraduate students; 5 credits for graduate students) and maintain satisfactory academic progress as outlined for financial aid.
Students should first check with the federal work-study coordinator in the Office of Financial Aid to determine eligibility to participate in the program. Once eligibility has been determined, students can pursue either on-campus or off-campus employment. Once all completed paperwork has been submitted to the federal work-study coordinator, students will receive a confirmation email with a copy of the work-study time sheet and payroll schedule attached. Students should not begin working until this confirmation is received.
For a complete overview of the program, please view FWS Student Handbook (PDF 177kB).