Earn money, build your resume, and develop essential skills while balancing your academic schedule. Student employment provides the opportunity to earn money while gaining valuable skills that prepare you for life after college.
Whether you’re looking to support your education financially or build your resume, working on campus allows you to take ownership of your future in a community that rallies around your success.
My work-study position was a great way to earn spending money while improving skills for my resume.”
Thomas McElhannon ’24
Federal Work-Study Program
The Federal Work-Study Program is a need-based employment opportunity for students who qualify through the FAFSA. Here’s what to know:
- Students are paid monthly by check, based on hours worked and job responsibilities.
- Earnings are not applied directly to your tuition bill.
- A Federal Work-Study award sets your maximum potential earnings for the year but does not guarantee employment or income.
- Employment eligibility may be affected by funding limits, student demand, and unmet financial need.
- Off-campus jobs may end earlier than expected due to budget constraints.
- Federal Work-Study wages are taxable.
Students awarded Federal Work-Study will receive additional instructions over the summer to secure a job.
College Work-Study Program
The College Work-Study Program operates similarly to Federal Work-Study but is open to all students — regardless of financial need.
- No FAFSA required
- Students are paid monthly by check.
- Wages are based on job responsibilities.
- Like Federal Work-Study, College Work-Study is considered taxable income.
Both programs offer flexible, part-time positions across campus departments — from offices and labs to athletics and student services.
10-15 hours
per week
Students who work 10–15 hours per week on campus often perform better academically than those who don’t work at all.
$120 billion
Filing the FAFSA unlocks access to more than $120 billion in federal student aid each year — including grants, loans, and work-study.
Over 600k
Over 600,000 students participate in Federal Work-Study each year, gaining real-world experience while earning money to support their education.
Requirements for First-Time Student Employees
To begin working through either program, new student employees must complete the following:
- Student Employment Agreement
- I-9 Form
- W-4 Form
- Student Employment Authorization Form (To be completed after the student is hired.)
These forms can be found in the Financial Aid Office in Smith Administration Building.