Find Funding for College 11: Federal Work-Study Program

This continues our series examining how you can find funding for college—others pay for it

Most of you will recognize the work-study program from movies. I refer to the movies that involve an Ivy League University with a student who works in the cafeteria, or as a janitor, or some other situation. The rich student may refer to him or her as the “scholarship” student or the “hardship” case.  Work-study program pays for these students.

Overview of the Federal Work Study Program

Undergraduate and graduate students, who can show need, may use the work-study program. A simple explanation

• A student works on or off campus doing some job that benefits the school
• The school reduces their tuition, housing, or other fees
• The federal government reimburses the school for the cost of reductions

Not all schools participate in the federal work-study program.  Some resist based on a “Don’t take federal money” principle. Some find the restrictions and regulations too cumbersome. Others compensate by reducing staff positions for student employment opportunities.

You can find out more about the work-study program at the Student Financial Aid web site.

How Much Can You Earn?

“You’ll earn at least the current federal minimum wage. However, you may earn more depending on the type of work you do and the skills required for the position. Your total work-study award depends on:

• when you apply,
• your level of financial need, and
• your school’s funding level

How will I get paid?

How you’re paid depends partly on whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student.

• If you are an undergraduate student, you're paid by the hour.
• If you are a graduate or professional student, you're paid by the hour or by salary, depending on the work you do.
• Your school must pay you at least once a month.
• Your school must pay you directly unless you request that the school
  • send your payments directly to your bank account or
  • use the money to pay for your education-related institutional charges such as tuition, fees, and room and board.”

Friday we analyze problems and benefits of subsidized and unsubsidized student loans