Does Federal Work Study Count Toward Cost of College?

As students begin to receive financial aid award letters, families have questions regarding the different types of awards that are received. One such award that causes many questions is Federal Work Study. What is Federal Work Study and how does it… work? Glad you asked. Let’s take a look at a common question related to Federal Work Study.

Learn how to negotiate and appeal for additional financial aid >>

Federal Work Study

Let’s take a look at whether or not Federal Work Study counts towards a student’s cost of college.

Check out our free CSS Profile Guide >>

What is Federal Work Study?

Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a program in the United States that provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students who have demonstrated financial need. The program is administered by the Department of Education and is available to eligible students attending participating institutions of higher education.

The FWS program allows students to earn money to help pay for their educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience. Students typically work on-campus, but some may work off-campus at nonprofit organizations or public agencies. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student's course of study.

The amount of money a student can earn through FWS is determined by the student's financial need, the amount of funding the school receives from the federal government for the program, and the amount of hours the student is able to work. The program is intended to supplement, not replace, other forms of financial aid, such as grants and loans.

Learn more about Federal Work Study >>

Does Federal Work Study count toward my cost of college?

No. Federal Work Study operates like a part-time job. In this case, students that are working receive a paycheck. It is up to the student how the money is spent. While students can use the money to pay for future college balances or to pay down outstanding student loans, it's not uncommon for the wages earned to be used as spending money for the student.

Check out our free FAFSA Guide >>

There is a lot to be gained from our free general financial aid advice, but it’s also a very individual process. If you have remaining financial aid questions, email us to discuss more or book an individual session.