Federal Work Study

Earn Money, Gain Experience with Federal Work Study (FWS)

Federal Work Study (FWS) is a financial aid program that provides a limited number of part-time job opportunities for Title IV eligible students, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses when not in class. Positions are primarily on campus, but there are some off-campus jobs, typically in a local school system or with a local community service group or agency.

How does it work?

• Flexible Schedule: Work up to 19.5 hours/week, balancing your job with your classes.
• Eligibility: Based on current FAFSA; must be eligible for Pell and enrolled in a Pell-eligible program of study.
• Good Academic Standing: To qualify, student must be in good academic standing and maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress.
• Student must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours each semester to participate. A student who withdraws from a course or otherwise falls below the 6-hour minimum during a semester must stop working immediately.
• No Experience Needed. FWS is a great way to gain valuable work experience.

The Process

• Apply: Complete the FWS application.
• Background Check: Criminal background screening required prior to employment.
• Current hourly rate: $9/hour for all positions. Paychecks are issued on a monthly basis.
• Interview: You may be interviewed by potential supervisors.
• Starting Work: Applicants must complete employment and tax forms once hired.

Important Reminders

• Professionalism: Be punctual, communicate with your supervisor, and dress appropriately.
• Focus on Work: Avoid studying or schoolwork during your shift.
• Follow Rules: Adhere to workplace policies to keep your job.

Federal Work Study Positions

Please come see one of our staff members in Student Life to learn more about any of the Federal Work Study job openings listed below, and to get started with the application process.

Available positions include*:

* Subject to change. The earlier in the semester you apply, the more opportunities available.

Interested?

To apply for a Federal Work Study (FWS) position:

✅ Complete and submit OFTC’s Federal Work Study Application, or
✅ Contact Lori Parnell to request an application:

Federal Work-Study Orientation

Once you’re hired, you’ll need to complete a short orientation. This ensures you understand program requirements, responsibilities, and resources available to you.

Here’s what to do next:

✅ View the Orientation Module – Learn about the program guidelines and your role as a student employee.

✅ Confirm Completion – After reviewing the module, complete the confirmation form to let us know you’ve finished.

Use the links below to access the orientation and the confirmation form.