Overview
Work-study is a federal program that provides part-time jobs to students attending college or career school. The program helps students pay for educational expenses, gain valuable work experience, and develop essential skills.
How Much Do Work-Study Students Get Paid?
The federal minimum wage for work-study students is $7.25 per hour. However, many institutions pay their work-study students more than the minimum wage. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average hourly wage for work-study students in 2019-2020 was $10.50.
The amount of money you earn from work-study depends on several factors, including:
- Your institution: Different institutions have different pay scales for work-study students.
- Your job: Some jobs pay more than others. For example, jobs that require specialized skills or experience typically pay more than entry-level jobs.
- Your hours: The more hours you work, the more money you will earn.
How to Get a Work-Study Job
To get a work-study job, you must:
- Be enrolled in an eligible program. Most colleges and career schools participate in the work-study program.
- Demonstrate financial need. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your financial need.
- Meet the eligibility criteria set by your institution. Each institution has its own eligibility criteria for work-study students.
Benefits of Work-Study
There are many benefits to participating in the work-study program, including:
- Earn money to help pay for college. Work-study can help you offset the cost of tuition, fees, books, and other expenses.
- Gain valuable work experience. Work-study jobs can help you develop marketable skills and experience that can help you get a job after graduation.
- Explore different career paths. Work-study can help you explore different career paths and find a field that interests you.
- Build your resume. Work-study experience can help you build your resume and make you more competitive in the job market.
FAQs
1. How many hours can I work per week?
- The maximum number of hours you can work per week depends on your institution’s policies. Most institutions limit work-study students to working 20 hours per week during the academic year and 40 hours per week during the summer.
2. What types of jobs are available to work-study students?
- Work-study jobs are available in a variety of fields, including:
- On-campus jobs: These jobs are located on campus and may include working in the library, the cafeteria, or the student union.
- Off-campus jobs: These jobs are located off campus and may include working in a retail store, a restaurant, or a non-profit organization.
3. How do I apply for a work-study job?
- To apply for a work-study job, you must contact your institution’s financial aid office. The financial aid office will provide you with a list of available jobs and help you complete the application process.
4. How much money will I earn from work-study?
- The amount of money you earn from work-study depends on several factors, including your institution, your job, and your hours. According to the NCES, the average hourly wage for work-study students in 2019-2020 was $10.50.
5. What are the benefits of participating in the work-study program?
- There are many benefits to participating in the work-study program, including:
- Earn money to help pay for college.
- Gain valuable work experience.
- Explore different career paths.
- Build your resume.
6. How do I find a work-study job that aligns with my interests and goals?
- To find a work-study job that aligns with your interests and goals, you can:
- Talk to your academic advisor or career counselor.
- Research different job openings on your institution’s website.
- Network with other students, faculty, and staff.