If you are eligible to participate in the Federal Work-Study program you'll work part-time while you're going to school.
What is the Federal Work-Study Program?
The Federal Work-Study Program is a federal financial aid program that allows eligible undergraduate and graduate students to earn money to help pay for their education by working part-time while enrolled. It’s a need-based program, meaning that students must demonstrate financial need to be eligible. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student's field of study.
How much money can I earn?
Your Federal Work-Study earnings will be no less than the current federal minimum wage, but they may be higher, depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. A Federal Work-Study award depends on the availability of funding at the institution, the institution's awarding policies for Federal Work-Study, when you apply, your level of need, and your commitment to obtaining a qualified Federal Work-Study position and performing the work required.
How will I be paid?
If you’re an undergraduate, you’ll be paid by the hour. If you’re a graduate student, you may be paid by the hour or you may receive a salary. No Federal Work-Study student may be paid by commission or by fee. Unless you request that the school make direct deposit payments to your bank account or to your student account to pay institutional charges (e.g., fees, room and board), the school must pay you directly at least once a month.
Are Federal Work-Study jobs on-campus or off-campus?
Both. 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 may have agreements with private for-profit employers for Federal Work-Study jobs, which must be relevant to your field of study.
Can I work as many hours as I want?
No. The amount you earn can't exceed your total Federal Work-Study award authorization. When assigning work hours, your employer or financial aid administrator will consider your class schedule and your academic progress. CSU campuses typically limit a student's work hours to a maximum of 20 hours per week when classes are in session.