Work-Study

Your Federal Work-Study wages will be at least the current federal minimum wage, but they may be higher depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. Your total Federal Work-Study award depends on when you apply, your level of need, and the funding level of your school.

If you're an undergraduate, you'll be paid by the hour. If you're a graduate student, you might be paid by the hour or you may receive a salary. Your school must pay you at least once a month and they must pay you directly, unless you request that the school make payments to your bank account, or use the money to pay for your institutional charges such as tuition, fees, room and board.

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 might have agreements with private for-profit employers for Federal Work-Study jobs, which must be judged to be relevant to your course of study to the maximum extent possible.

Work-Study jobs may go very fast at your school. Please apply early to ensure you get the best possible job.

Work study will usually be combined with scholarships, grants, and loans on your award letter