Federal Work-Study Guide 2026: How It Works and Who Qualifies

Disclaimer: General information only, not financial aid advice. Work-Study availability and rules can change. Confirm details with your school's financial aid office and StudentAid.gov.

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, letting them earn money to help pay education costs. Jobs are often on campus or with approved community organizations.

How You Get Work-Study

Work-Study is awarded through the FAFSA, not a separate application at the federal level. If you are eligible, it appears in your financial aid offer as an amount you can earn, not a lump sum applied to your bill. You must then find and work an approved job to receive the money as wages.

How It Pays

• You are paid by the hour for hours actually worked.
• Pay is at least the federal minimum wage, often higher.
• Hours are capped so work does not hurt your studies.

Finding a Job

Contact your school's financial aid or student employment office for open positions. On-campus roles and community-service roles are common. Because FWS funds are limited, apply early and treat it like a real job search.

Does It Affect Other Aid?

Earnings from Work-Study are generally treated differently from other income on the FAFSA, but rules apply. Ask your aid office how your earnings interact with your overall package.