What's Work-Study? Working on Campus
If paying for college is something that is on your mind, you probably have already considered scholarships. But you might not know that for eligible students, the U.S. government has a program that can help you earn some extra money by working on campus.
What is The Federal Work-Study Program?
The United States Federal Work-Study program allows university students work on campus and earn financial aid for college. It is a need-based program, where the federal government and the college or university each share the cost of employing students.
How Do I Apply for Work-Study?
College students who are interested in having a work-study program be part of their financial aid package have to fill out and submit the (FAFSA). Make sure that you answer "yes" to the question that asks if you are interested in student employment. Some colleges might require you to submit other financial aid documents, but filling out the FAFSA is the first step. Keep in mind that the FAFSA needs to be completed by a certain date, usually March 1.
Once you have been notified that you are eligible for work study, be proactive and begin looking for a job on campus. Don't just apply for one position; pursuing multiple jobs will give you more options. Most colleges and universities work on a first-come, first-served basis when it comes to work-study positions, so apply early, and follow up with the departments that interest you.
Find Work Study Eligible Jobs at SLU
Who is Eligible for Work-Study?
Contact your school's financial aid office to learn more about work-study eligibility requirements. Financial aid eligibility from year to year is not guaranteed. Work-study students have to resubmit the FAFSA each year to determine their financial aid status.
What Will I Earn as a Work Study Student?
It can vary by college but the Federal Work-Study program requires that students get paid at least the current federal minimum wage. The number of hours you typically work will be based around your class schedule and your employer's need.
What Are The Benefits of a Work-Study Job?
- You'll receive financial aid for your college education and personal expenses.
- You'll gain work experience and be able to explore different career paths.
- Working on campus will help you become familiar with your college or university.
- Professional networking opportunities will allow you to meet valuable references to add to your resume.
- Your work schedule will be flexible enough for you to focus on your classes.
- The wages you earn will not count towards the following year's student contribution section of the FAFSA.
Get More Work-Study Tips from SLU
- How to Be a Roommate: 5 Steps to Help You Get Along with Your College Roommate
- How to Change the World: Make a Difference at a University that Emphasizes Public Service
- How to Get Admitted: We Break Down the Steps, From Application to Interview
- How to Pick a Major: Still Deciding on a Future Career? We've Got Some Tips for You.
- How to Plan Your College Search: Tips for Researching College Admission, Financial Aid and More
- How to Prep to Play College Sports: It's More than Talent and Grades
- How to Transfer Colleges: Tips on Switching to a New University or College
- Inside a College Fair: Your First Look at Your Top College or University Choices
- It's Not Too Late to Apply: Learn ¶¶Òõpro SLU's Rolling Admissions Policy
- Scholarships and Service: Scholarships for Students Committed to Community Service
- SLU Scholarships for Freshmen: ¶¶Òõpro Offers More than 10 Scholarships and Awards
- SLU's Team Spirit: What It's Like to Cheer on the Billikens
- The Tests You Need for College: Learn ¶¶Òõpro the ACT and the SAT
Top 5
- Top 5 Admission Counselor Questions: Questions You Should Be Asking in
- Your College Interviews
- Top 5 College Choice Tips: Find the Best College Fit for You
- Top 5 College Prep Activities: The Best High School Activities for College Success
- Top 5 Majors at SLU: What Undergraduate Degrees are Most Popular?
- Top 5 Ways to Pay for College: College Financial Aid, Explained
- Top 5 Things to Bring to College