Federal Work Study

Federal Work-Study

Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a need-based financial aid program available to students who demonstrate financial aid based on the results from the FAFSA. Federal Work-Study provides part-time jobs to students with financial need to help pay for educational expenses.

The program encourages students to have the opportunity to work in a job related to their program of study, interest, community service and gain valuable experience and learn while you earn funds. This is a good way to develop and acquire marketable job skills, gain knowledge, insight into a chosen career field, networking opportunities, and establish valuable relationships.

All Federal Work-Study jobs allow you to work at a campus location while going to school. These are real jobs. Many offices employ student workers and are flexible with class schedules to allow you time off for exams and other school related duties.

As a Work-Study employee, you are limited to earn the amount of your FWS award. The FWS award is not disbursed in a lump sum.  Student employees can work up to 20 hours a week and receive a pay check every two weeks for the hours that they’ve worked. Federal Work-Study positions pay at least the current federal minimum wage but may be higher, depending upon the type of work for the position and the skills required.

There is no guarantee that you will earn the full amount of your FWS Award. Once you reach your earning limitation, your supervisor may continue your employment under their divisional budget. Due to budget restrictions, there is no guarantee for a continued employment under the division's budget.

Students interested in Federal Work-Study should submit the Federal Work-Study Student Interest Form and the Financial Aid Office will determine your eligibility. Please note that eligibility for the FWS program does not guarantee a job and positions are limited.

Eligibility

You may be eligible for Federal Work-Study if you meet all of the following:

  • Have a completed FAFSA on file with GateWay’s school code and demonstrate financial need
  • Be enrolled in 6 credits or more at GateWay that are applicable in a financial aid eligible program
  • Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards

If you are interested in applying for a Federal Work-Study job, please do the following: