Federal Work Study Program

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program provides eligible students with part-time employment to help pay for educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience. Learn who qualifies, how to apply, how much you can earn, and how to find a Federal Work-Study job at Mississippi State University.

What is Federal Work-Study?

Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federal financial aid program that allows eligible students to earn money through part-time employment while attending Mississippi State University.

FWS funds do not have to be repaid. Students earn a paycheck for the hours they work, and those earnings can be used to help pay educational and personal expenses. Because funds are earned over time, they are not available at the beginning of the semester to pay tuition and fees.

Benefits of Federal Work-Study

Federal Work-Study offers more than just a paycheck.

Benefits include:

Earn money to help pay for educational and personal expenses while attending Mississippi State University.
Gain valuable work experience that can strengthen your résumé and prepare you for future career opportunities.
Build connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students while working on campus.
Work in positions that support the university or local community, depending on the job assignment.
Enjoy a flexible work schedule that is designed to accommodate your class schedule and academic responsibilities.
Keep more of your financial aid eligibility, as earnings from Federal Work-Study are excluded from income calculations on the following year's FAFSA.

Who Can Receive Federal Work-Study?

To qualify for Federal Work-Study, students must:

Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at Mississippi State University.
Be enrolled at least half-time.
Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
Be in good standing with federal student aid programs.
Demonstrate financial need by completing the FAFSA.

How to Apply for Federal Work-Study

Step 1: Complete the FAFSA

Submit the FAFSA each academic year to be considered for Federal Work-Study.

Step 2: Accept Your Offer

If you are offered Federal Work-Study, accept it in your Financial Aid Dashboard.

Step 3: Search for Jobs

Receiving a Federal Work-Study offer does not automatically place you in a job. Apply for available Federal Work Study jobs using the Mississippi State University Career Center.

Apply for Federal Work-Study Jobs

Students are responsible for applying for and interviewing for available positions. Mississippi State University does not place students in jobs.

Step 4: Complete Hiring Documents

Once hired, complete all hiring documents with your direct supervisor.

Step 5: Begin Working

Types of Federal Work-Study Jobs

Federal Work-Study offers a variety of part-time jobs that align with students' interests, skills, and career goals. Positions may be available both on campus and off campus.

On-campus jobs provide an opportunity to earn money while gaining valuable work experience in a flexible environment. Many university employers understand that academics come first and work with students to create schedules that fit around their classes. Positions may include office assistants, library staff, laboratory assistants, food service employees, and other campus support roles.

Off-campus positions are community service jobs that allow students to give back to the community while gaining valuable work experience. Students work as tutors while developing professional skills and making a positive impact in the community.

Available positions vary throughout the year.

How Much Can I Earn?

Your Federal-Work Study award represents the maximum amount you may earn during the academic year.

Your total earnings depend on:

Your award amount
Your hourly wage
The number of hours you work

Once you've earned your full award, you you are no longer eligible to work under the Federal Work-Study Program. It is the responsibility of both you and your supervisor to monitor your earnings.

Student Responsibilities

If you accept a Federal Work-Study award, you are expected to:

Complete the FAFSA each year to be considered for future Federal Work-Study funding.
Apply and interview for available Federal Work-Study positions.
Complete all required hiring and payroll paperwork before beginning work.
Maintain at least half-time enrollment and meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements.
Work your scheduled hours, report absences to your supervisor, and follow workplace policies.
Accurately complete and submit your timesheets on time.
Monitor your Federal Work-Study earnings to ensure you do not exceed your awarded amount.
Notify your supervisor if your enrollment status or Federal Work-Study award changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for Federal Work-Study?

To be considered for Federal Work-Study, complete the FAFSA each year. If you are eligible and funding is available, you may receive a Federal Work-Study award as part of your financial aid offer.

Is Federal Work-Study guaranteed?

No. Federal Work-Study is awarded based on financial need and the availability of federal funding. Not all eligible students will receive an award.

Does receiving Federal Work-Study guarantee me a job?

No. Receiving a Federal Work-Study award makes you eligible to apply for approved positions, but you must secure a job before you can begin earning your award.

How do I get paid?

Students receive a paycheck based on the hours they work. Federal Work-Study earnings are not automatically applied toward tuition or other university charges.

How many hours can I work?

Your supervisor will determine your work schedule based on your class schedule, departmental needs, and your Federal Work-Study award.

Can I work during class?

No. Students may not work during scheduled class times, even if a class is canceled or ends early.

How much will I be paid?

Your hourly pay rate is determined by the position and the hiring department. Your total earnings cannot exceed your awarded Federal Work-Study amount.