Federal Work-Study
A federally funded program providing part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses while enrolled.
Jobs are often on-campus or with approved off-campus nonprofits and community service organizations. Earnings are paid as regular paychecks — they are not automatically applied to tuition. Work-Study wages do not count against FAFSA income calculations for the following award year.
→ Indicate interest in Federal Work-Study on your FAFSA — your school will determine your award.
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Frequently asked questions about Federal Work-Study
What is Federal Work-Study?+
A federally funded program providing part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses while enrolled. Jobs are often on-campus or with approved off-campus nonprofits and community service organizations.
Who qualifies for Federal Work-Study?+
Eligibility rules vary. Use BK's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see if you may qualify based on your situation.
How do I apply for Federal Work-Study?+
BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener can point you to the right application path.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what programs you may qualify for. The Find Benefits tool tool also lets you browse programs by state.