Working while in college can help you pay for books, food and everyday expenses, reduce how much you borrow, and build experience employers value. Federal Work-Study and other campus jobs are designed with students in mind, often offering flexible hours that fit around classes. This guide explains how Work-Study works and how to find a job that supports your studies rather than competing with them.
What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federal financial aid program that provides part-time jobs to undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. Instead of receiving the money upfront like a grant, you earn it through a paycheck as you work. Key facts:
- You must file the FAFSA and indicate you're interested in work-study.
- Eligibility is based on financial need, and funds are limited at each college.
- You'll be paid at least the federal minimum wage, often more depending on the job and your state.
- Your work-study award is the maximum you can earn through the program in a year, not a guaranteed amount.
- Work-study earnings are generally not counted as income on future FAFSAs, which can help protect your aid eligibility.
A work-study award isn't a job — yet
This surprises many students: being awarded work-study doesn't mean you have a job. You still need to find and apply for an eligible position. Positions often fill quickly at the start of the year, so start looking as soon as your college posts openings — sometimes before you arrive on campus.
Where to find work-study and campus jobs
- Your college's student employment website or job platform (many colleges use Handshake).
- Campus offices: the library, admissions, recreation center, dining services, IT help desk, tutoring center, and academic departments.
- Community service jobs: FWS can also fund positions with eligible nonprofit and public agencies off campus, such as tutoring children in local schools.
- Career services: staff can help you find positions related to your major.
Choosing the right job
Look for a job that fits your schedule and goals:
- Study-friendly jobs such as library desk or front-office reception may allow you to study during quiet periods.
- Career-related jobs — research assistant, lab technician, writing tutor, marketing assistant — build skills and connections in your field.
- Flexible scheduling matters more than a slightly higher wage. Campus employers usually understand exam weeks and class changes.
How many hours should you work?
Research and experience suggest that working a moderate number of hours — often around 10 to 15 per week — can actually help students manage their time and feel more connected to campus. Working many more hours can make it harder to keep up with classes, particularly during your first semester. Start with a manageable schedule, then adjust once you understand your workload.
Tip: Plan your class schedule first, then your work shifts, then your study blocks. Protect your study time as seriously as your work hours.
Off-campus jobs
If you don't receive work-study or can't find a position, off-campus jobs are another option. Restaurants, retail stores, tutoring services and local businesses often hire students. Consider commute time and whether the employer will be flexible during exams. Remember that regular wages may be counted as income on future FAFSAs, unlike work-study earnings.
Getting paid and budgeting
Work-study pay usually arrives as a regular paycheck, not as a credit to your tuition bill. That means you'll need to budget carefully if you planned to use it for school costs. Set up direct deposit, track your hours, and use our guide on how to make a college budget to plan your spending.
Turn your job into career experience
Campus jobs count on your resume. Track your responsibilities and accomplishments — the number of students you assisted, processes you improved, or projects you completed. Supervisors can become valuable references for internships later. For more ideas, read our guide on how to get an internship in college.
