Federal Work Study

Being a student worker not only helps pay the bills, but it also provides valuable job experience. Studies show that working helps students budget time and has a positive effect on grades and attitudes toward college. The number of hours a student can work depends on his or her class schedule, the needs of the employer and the amount of the Federal Work Study award. A maximum of 15 to 20 hours a week is recommended for full-time students.

Eligibility

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), indicating they are interested in work-study and demonstrate need.

Will I be paid the same as I would in any other job? You’ll be paid by the hour. No FWS student may be paid by commission or fee. Wages for the program must equal at least the current federal minimum wage but might be higher, depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. The amount you earn can’t exceed your total FWS award. When assigning work hours, your employer or financial aid administrator will consider your award amount, your class schedule and your academic progress.

What kinds of jobs are there in FWS? If you work on campus, you’ll usually work for your school. If you work off campus, your employer will usually be a private nonprofit organization or a public agency, and the work performed must be in the public interest.

Florida State College at Jacksonville also has various student assistant positions and participates in the Florida Work Experience Program (FWEP).

Contact Information

To learn more, contact your campus/center at the numbers listed below.

Additional Information

• Employee Rights Under the Fair Labor Standards Act
• Federal Minimum Wage Information