Preparing for student employment
Federal Work-Study
What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federally funded, need-based financial aid program that provides part-time job opportunities for eligible students. It helps students earn money to cover educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience.
Preparing for student employment
How do I know if I have Federal Work-Study?
You can check your FWS eligibility and award status by reviewing your Financial Aid Notification (FAN) on My ASU.
To work in an FWS position, you must:
- Have a completed FAFSA for the current academic year and qualify for need-based aid.
- Have an FWS award listed on your FAN via My ASU.
- Meet standard student eligibility criteria, including being enrolled in at least one credit hour and not working during class times.
If FWS does not appear on your FAN, you can submit a Federal Work-Study Adjustment Form to request an award.
Can I apply for Federal work-study?
Yes, but FWS is first awarded through your financial aid package, based on need. You must still apply for and be hired into an FWS job to activate your award.
Steps to participate:
- Complete the FAFSA for the current year.
- Check your FAN to see if FWS has been awarded.
- If not listed, submit a Federal Work-Study Adjustment Form to request consideration.
- Search and apply for FWS jobs through ASU’s job portal (look for on-campus, off-campus, or community service FWS listings).
- Once hired, you may start working on the first day of fall classes if you are an incoming student.
Important reminders:
- You can only earn up to the amount of your FWS award. Once reached, your employer may continue your position under the Hourly Employment Program, though continuation is not guaranteed.
- FWS employment must end on your graduation day.
- To work over summer, you must meet special FAFSA and enrollment requirements; otherwise, your earnings may count as a resource toward your next year’s financial aid.
Federal Work-Study hours and positions policy
Federal Work-Study (FWS) positions are designed to provide flexible, part-time employment that supports your academic success and financial needs. Below are the key policies regarding work hours, types of positions, and employment limits.
Work hours
Earnings and employment limits
- You may earn only up to the amount of your FWS award.
Once you reach your award limit:
- Your employer may choose to continue your position under the Hourly Employment Program, though this is not guaranteed and depends on department funding.
- FWS wages are paid biweekly for hours actually worked and are subject to federal taxes.
- Paychecks are available through your department or via direct deposit through My ASU under Employee Self Service > Payroll & Compensation.