What is Federal Work-Study (FWS)?

The FWS Program is designed to help students who show financial need to earn a portion of their educational expenses through meaningful employment. The number of requests usually exceeds FWS funds. It is important to remember that work-study is NOT a job in which you are paid to study. Work-study is not a cash award. You must work for your earnings.

  Am I Eligible for FWS?

You must complete the “Free Application for Federal Student Aid” (FAFSA) and meet all the deadlines for supporting documentation. You will be evaluated for financial need and if eligible, offered a package that may include FWS from the Office of Student Financial Aid. You must pick up your Eligibility Letter from Career Services. If you have questions regarding your eligibility for work-study, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid. Career Services will assist eligible students in finding a position on campus, or in an approved community work-study setting.

  How Does Work-Study Work?

Once you have been awarded Work-Study by the Office of Student Financial Aid, you are required to find a job on campus that would be affiliated with the Work-Study Program. Twice a month you turn in a timesheet for the hours you worked. You will then receive full payment for those hours, and the money is not applied toward school expenses. Once your award has been depleted for the semester, you may continue working if departmental budget monies are available.  It is your responsibility to know how much of your award you have used and how much is remaining for the semester.  You can continue your work-study position in the following semester provided that you are still eligible for work study funds.  Remember to reapply for work study when you renew your FAFSA.

  Are Federal Work-Study Jobs On or Off-Campus?

Both. If you work on campus, you will work for Texas State. If you work off campus, the work performed must be in the public interest. Your employer must be an approved community work study site. You can search for a work study job once you have registered with Jobs4Cats.  Use the Quick Link on this page to login.

  Are There On Campus Non-Work Study Jobs Available?

Yes. Regular wage positions are available. You can find a listing of jobs after you have registered with Jobs4Cats.  Use the Quick Links on this page to login.

  How Will I Be Paid?

You will be paid by the hour, and your earnings are subject to taxes. Payments are disbursed twice a month; the first working day of the month and the 15th of the month. Be certain to complete your electronic payment information when you are hired.  Ask your hiring department for details.

  How Much Can I Make?

Your earnings will be at least the current federal minimum wage; however, you could be paid more depending upon the type of work you do and the skills required. Your total FWS award depends on your financial need, the amount of other aid you will receive and the availability of funds at Texas State.

You are strongly encouraged to monitor your earnings so that you do not exceed your FWS award amount. Don’t forget that your award is subject to tax withholdings. Remember, the amount you earn cannot exceed your total FWS award.

  Can I Work As Many Hours As I Want?

No. You may work no more than 25 hours per week while classes are in session. International Students may only work a total of 20 hours per week. FWS students work an average of 10 to 15 hours per week. Check with your supervisor regarding employment policies for summer and in between semesters.

  When Must I Stop Working?

The last day of the academic year is the last day Work-Study funds may be used for employment. Your last permissible workday will differ if you are enrolled for summer classes.

You must stop working when you have earned all of your FWS award. The only way you may continue working after your FWS award has been earned is if your employer has funds to cover you on their payroll as a regular wage employee. Check with your supervisor!