Federal Work Study (FWS) positions are provided via FAFSA and are need-based employment opportunities. To see if you qualify for FWS, check your financial aid statement or the financial aid department. Those who apply for FWS may choose to work an FWS position or a non-FWS hourly-rate positions on campus. Because International students do not qualify for federal financial aid, they do not qualify for FWS.
FWS Earning Limits
Students are provided a work-study earnings limit as a part of their notification of eligibility. Because this is a federal program that is based on the financial need of each student, there is a limit to the amount that can be provided. The federal government pays most of the wage and limits the amount each person can receive.
It is extremely important that students monitor their earnings, so they do not exceed their limit. The student must stop working when the earnings limit is reached. Email notifications will be sent to both the student and the employer when a student approaches the earnings limit. The Student Employment Office must charge the over-earnings directly back to the employer at 100%.
Students should arrange their work schedules to avoid prematurely reaching their limit. The maximum number of hours a student can work is 20 hours per week. Students approaching the limit who believe their financial circumstances have changed since accepting the original aid package should contact the office of Student Employment.
Students should be aware that their limits may be decreased during the academic year if unanticipated resources (e.g., outside scholarships) affect their financial aid packages.