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Work Study FAQ

Federal Work Study

A federally funded program for students with demonstrated financial need. Students must complete and return a FASFA each year (applications become available each January at the Financial Aid Office) to be considered for the program.

For the most part, all on-campus positions (except for fundraising) may hire eligible Work Study students. Additionally, off-campus, non-profit agencies may submit a request for Work Study students to work at their place of employment. All employers pay a portion of the student wages and the federal government pays a portion.

If you are a non-profit agency interested in learning more about the Work Study Program simply email us at case@uwsp.edu and we will send you additional information.

What is Work Study?

Work Study is a federally funded program for students with demonstrated financial need. Students must complete and return a FAFSA each year (applications become available each January at the Financial Aid Office) to be considered for the program. The only real difference between Work Study and any other job is how a job is funded (The employer pays a portion and the federal government pays a portion).

Should I Use My Work Study?

Many students debate whether or not to take advantage of this program. Most first year students are awarded at least $1,400 for the academic year. At the UWSP campus minimum wage of $7.25/hr; this amounts to only 5 hours a week. Work study funds are unlike other loans and grants, and can be used by students as spending money.

National studies indicate students who work less than 20 hours per week, on campus do as well as (if not better) academically than their non-working peers. At UWSP, we believe having a part-time position, on-campus for less than 10 hours a week, provides students with another means to make a connection to campus, meet new people, and to earn a few dollars.

How Does Using Work Study Benefit Me?

Not only will you get paid every two weeks, but your earnings very well may help your financial aid “picture” for the following academic year. All earnings are considered when applying for financial aid. However, Work Study funds are removed from the equation when it comes time to determine your financial aid package. In a nutshell, your earnings “appear” to be less and thus you may qualify for more aid. Using your Work Study also allows you to apply for jobs that are not always available to all students. Some departments are only able to hire Work Study students. Getting these jobs as a first year student is often seen as very beneficial!

Work Study Guarantees me a Job, Right?

Work Study provides funding for jobs; it does not guarantee that a student will get a job. Most employers ask that you complete an application form and/or participate in an interview process.

Where can I use Work Study?

For the most part, all on-campus positions (with the exception of UWSP Phonathon callers) may use Work Study. Additionally, you may use your Work Study for approved off-campus, non-profit agencies.

What kind of jobs are available?

The list is nearly endless for Work Study opportunities! Students work in almost every area on campus and in many off-campus locations. Jobs range from:

How do I check my Work Study balance?

Students can check their allotment on AccessPoint.

So, my Earnings Get Attached Directly to my Bill, Right?

Not so! Students will receive a check (through Direct Deposit) every two weeks for the amount of time they worked the previous two weeks. It is up to you how you spend the money. You can apply it directly to your bill, use it to pay your phone bill, or buy everyone on your floor pizza!

How much will I be paid?

This depends on the job. The UWSP campus minimum wage is $7.25/hour.

What happens if I go over my Work Study award?

It is your responsibility to keep track of your Work Study earnings so you do not go over your award amount. Many employers are unable to continue to employ students if they exceed their Work Study award. For more information about the Federal Work Study program and financial aid, visit the UWSP Office of Student Financial Aid web site.

What happens if I don’ t use all my Work Study award?

Any unused Work Study funds revert back to the University. Funds also cannot be carried over from an academic year to the next term. USE IT OR LOSE IT!

How can I find a job?

Students can search for on-campus jobs using Workday.

Since it’s called ‘Work Study’, that means I get paid to study, right?

No. The term “Work Study” describes the nature of the program. Students have an opportunity to work so that they may continue their studies at the University.