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

What is 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.

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

Interested? 

Complete and submit OFTC’s Federal Work Study Application, or contact Lori Parnell for an application.

Contact Information

For students interested in a FWS position, please contact:

Lori Parnell
Director of Financial Aid
(478) 553-2090
lparnell@oftc.edu

Federal Work Study Orientation

Students who have been approved for employment through the Federal Work Study program at OFTC are required to complete the OFTC Federal Work Study Orientation before starting work. Please review the Orientation for a general overview of the primary requirements, responsibilities, expectations, and processes of our FWS program, and be sure to sign and submit the verification page included at the end.