What is it?

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program is a need-based program designed to provide part-time employment for students with financial need.

How do I apply?

As with other need-based federal programs, information from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to determine eligibility for FWS funds.

I’ve already applied. What do I do next?

Once your FAFSA has been approved, you should visit the Career Center, where staff will help you create a resume. From there, hiring department supervisors will reach out to the Career Center for resumes. From there, hiring department supervisors will reach out to begin scheduling interviews.

Do I qualify?

Once Northwest Florida State College receives your FAFSA, our Financial Aid office will determine whether you qualify for work-study, as well as other financial aid including loans and grants.

You must meet the following requirements:

1. 1. Applicant must register for a minimum of 6 compliant credit hours
   2. Applicant must meet the NWF State College standards of academic progress & maintain a 2.0 GPA.
   3. Applicant must have financial need based upon the estimated family contribution (EFC) number calculated by FAFSA and includes the cost of attendance, loans, scholarships and grants awarded.

How is Work-Study aid disbursed?

Unlike other forms of financial aid, work-study money is not disbursed in a lump sum at the beginning of the semester. Also, these funds are not automatically applied to a student’s college obligations, but rather are paid directly to the student. Pay rates are at least minimum wage.

Is my Work-Study income taxable?

Work-study income is taxable. You will receive a W-2 from the college at the end of each year, and this form will indicate how much you earned from all employment at the college, including work-study employment. Although you may have to pay taxes on work-study earnings, you should list those earnings as income on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but then also report them as exclusions on the FAFSA. When filling out the FAFSA, read the FAFSA booklet instructions for the exclusions worksheet carefully.

What are my responsibilities as a Work-Study student?

• Do not work during scheduled classes or exams.
• Work only the number of hours per week awarded, not to exceed total term award.
• Abide by work regulations of the department which employed i.e., schedule, attendance, dress, etc.
• Notify the Financial Aid Office if you do not accept FWS employment.

What should I expect when I start the Work-Study program?

• Students are paid for hours worked.
• Work schedules, attendance, etc. will be decided by the department to which a student is assigned.
• Jobs are limited and will be awarded on a priority basis. Award: up to 20 hours per week at $9 per hour.