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Student Federal Work-Study Information: How to Get Work-Study Jobs

Learn all about work-study jobs and how to find one as a college student.

What is work-study?

The Federal Work-Study Program provides university students with part-time jobs to work to help supplement their income while they’re students. For students that benefit from more financial support, having work-study can set them up for success in college.

What are the best work-study jobs?

The best work-study jobs allow students to maintain flexibility for studying and extracurricular activities while also fostering a sense of responsibility and schedule organization.

Six best work-study jobs for students:

  1. Resident/Community Assistants
  2. Campus Ambassador
  3. Teaching Assistant
  4. Research Assistant
  5. Library Attendant
  6. Tutor

How much do work-study jobs pay/pay an hour?

Most work-study roles pay at least your state minimum wage! Depending on the position and the tasks, you might be paid more.

How do I know if I’m eligible for work-study?

To figure out if you qualify for work-study, you first need to submit an application to FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). After your application is processed, you will find out if you’re eligible for work-study.

How to find work-study jobs?

After you get approved for work-study at your individual college, you should get access to a job listing page with qualifying openings. Check your school’s on-campus job listing page and read the job description to see if that certain job works for your situation.

What should I do for work-study?

When deciding what to do for work-study, consider the type of job that would work for your schedule. For example, if you live in the residence halls it might be convenient for you to be a resident assistant or work on campus. If you commute to school, maybe consider a work-study job that allows remote work or another location to work at. Most work-study jobs are located on campus, so consider if that is a pro or con for you.

Consider the following questions when looking for a work-study job:

  • Do I want an on-campus job?
  • Do I want my work-study job to set me up for a more serious job later?
  • How many hours a week can I commit to work-study?

How to balance work-study with school?

Five tips for balancing work-study and school:

  1. Try not to procrastinate–do your projects in advance with time to spare
  2. Communicate to your boss if you have tests or presentations in advance so you can take time off or get your shifts switched with someone else
  3. Try and seek out a work-study job that relates to a passion of yours
  4. Dedicate time for mental health and personal wellness–without the pressures of school and work
  5. Build a positive network of friends and colleagues to help you study and share struggles of being a college student

What jobs are work-study?

Depending on your individual university, there are many various types of jobs that are work-study. Check with your school’s job listing page or speak with career services about your options.

How many hours does a work-study job require?

Work-study jobs typically do not make students work more than 20 hours a week.

How do I get a work-study job?

Once you’ve applied and been cleared for work-study, check with your university job listing page and begin applying to work-study jobs that pique your interest.

Photo by Monjur Hasan on Unsplash

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