The Federal Work-Study Program helps undergraduate and graduate students with financial need earn money through part-time employment while they’re enrolled in school.
Whether you’re a full-time or part-time student, you must apply through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. When completing the FAFSA, simply select the option indicating that you want to be considered for work-study.
A work-study award is not guaranteed, but applying early can improve your chances. Within a few weeks of submitting the FAFSA, you should be able to view your financial aid package, including amounts you are eligible for grants and whether work-study is included. If you are awarded work-study, you can then begin looking for an eligible job.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get?
The program emphasizes finding employment related to your course of study or community service. Both on-campus and off-campus jobs may qualify, though on-campus positions are typically prioritized.
On-campus jobs may include roles such as lab assistant, library staff, or administrative support.
As positions fill, students may also work for approved off-campus employers, including private nonprofit organizations or public agencies. Community service roles—such as tutoring, reading assistance, or healthcare support—are also common.
Some schools help match students with work-study jobs or provide listings, while others require students to find positions on their own. As with any other job, you’ll usually need to apply and interview. Contacting your school’s financial aid office can help clarify next steps.
Because on-campus positions can be limited, it’s best to start your job search as soon as you receive your award. In some cases, students may work limited hours on campus even before work-study funds are officially applied.
How Much Can You Earn?
Work-study jobs must pay at least the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Earnings can vary based on state minimum wage laws, job type, and required skills.
Your total earnings are capped at the amount of your Federal Work-Study award. The award amount depends on when you apply, your financial need, and your school’s available funding.
Undergraduate students are typically paid hourly. Graduate or professional students may be paid hourly or salaried, depending on the position. Pay schedules vary but are generally at least monthly, with some employers paying bi-weekly.
Most schools pay students directly, though options like direct deposit or applying earnings toward tuition may be available. Earnings can be used for living expenses as well as educational costs.
Because earnings cannot exceed the awarded amount, your employer or financial aid office will help schedule your hours accordingly. If you work fewer hours, you may not earn the full amount of your award. Most work-study jobs involve 10–20 hours per week, depending on availability and academic workload.
Determining Eligibility
Work-study eligibility depends on several factors. Financial need is the primary consideration, based on your FAFSA information, which may include parent or spouse income. Applying early is important, as funds are typically awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
You are not required to accept work-study if it’s offered, but declining it may affect future eligibility. Work-study earnings do not reduce your eligibility for future financial aid, though they must be reported as taxable income on the FAFSA the following year.
Before applying, confirm that your school participates in the Federal Work-Study Program. Your financial aid office can verify participation—currently, more than 3,400 colleges and universities take part.
While work-study usually won’t cover all college expenses, it can be a valuable resource. In addition to earning income, students gain work experience, develop professional skills, and often find jobs aligned with their field of study. For many students, work-study helps reduce reliance on student loans and supports graduating with less debt.