Everything You Need To Know About Work-Study
Last updated March 1, 2021
For the vast majority of college students, working at least part-time is a necessary part of affording college expenses. Finding a job can be tricky, though, which is why the federal work-study program exists to help college students find part-time jobs on or off-campus to help them pay for their education.
What is work study?
Work-study is a federal student aid program that provides students at participating colleges with part-time job opportunities. It’s a great way to help pay for your education expenses while gaining career skills and experience in the process.
How can I qualify for work study?
Work study eligibility is determined by completing the FAFSA. Question 31 on the FAFSA asks “Are you interested in being considered for work-study?” If you are, just check “Yes”! If your school participates in the work-study program, and you meet their eligibility requirements, you’ll see “Work-Study” in your financial aid package and be able to either accept or decline it.
How do I search for a work-study job?
Talk to your college’s career center to get a view for what work-study openings are available. Work study opportunities can be on-campus or off-campus, depending on your school.
What kind of work-study job should I take?
It’s up to you to decide what kind of jobs you want to apply - some work-study jobs are great because they provide flexible hours and convenient on-campus locations, others will provide more career-related experience. At most colleges, there will be more work-study openings than students applying.
Have more questions about how work-study, for lack of a better word, works? Just text "Hello" to 33-55-77 and we'll walk you through how to find a work-study position, how to complete your FAFSA so you can get work-study, and more.