Work-Study Program
The purpose of the Federal Work-Study Program is to give students the opportunity for flexible part-time employment. Earnings will assist in meeting the students' monthly educational expenses.
Work-Study provides a work opportunity for students who have financial need. In order for students to establish work-study eligibility at USF, they must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Priority in awarding work-study is given to students who file their FAFSA by January 1. Students work an average of four to six hours per week. Students are eligible to earn a specific dollar amount, determined by their financial need.
Students cannot earn more than the amount listed on the working Contract Form. The work-study coordinator will contact the supervisor when students are close to using all of the financial aid work-study award. The average work-study award is $1,500.
Work-Study Checklist
- Look at your Financial Aid Award Notice for the upcoming academic year to determine if you have Federal Work-Study eligibility.
- If you have been awarded Federal Work-Study, you will be sent a Work-Study application in May by the financial aid office. You will be given the opportunity to indicate up to four different departments you would like to work in during the academic year.
- A Work-Study supervisor will contact you in August to confirm your job for the academic year.
- Complete an I-9 Form and W-4 Federal Withholding Form in the Human Resource Office. Be sure to have two forms of identification to demonstrate proof of citizenship when completing the I-9 Form. Possible forms of identification include: Driver's License, Social Security Card, or Birth Certificate. These forms must be completed and submitted to payroll prior to receiving your first paycheck.
- Sign your Work-Study Contract. This form will be sent to your supervisor and must be signed by you and returned to the Financial Aid Office prior to the start of your employment.
- Complete ADP training. ADP is the online time clock software.
- Work an average of four to six hours a week at your Work-Study job. On-campus work environment provides flexibility to work with your class schedule.
- Paychecks are issued on the last working day of the month for hours worked during the pay period. You can use this money to help with tuition and other living expenses.
*Important note: Students receiving federal Title IV financial aid including Work-Study must be degree seeking USF students. Coursework taken each semester must count toward degree requirements. Federal financial aid cannot be awarded to students for classes that do not count towards their degree. Once students have met the graduation requirements, they are no longer eligible for financial aid unless they pursue a new degree program (different than a new major.) Upon seeking a new degree, only remaining federal loan eligibility is available.
Work-Study FAQs
Am I guaranteed a job?
No. We have more applicants than jobs available each year, but we recommend you complete an application.
How do I know what jobs are available?
Contact the Financial Aid Office.
What qualifications do I need to apply for a job?
You first need to qualify for Federal Work-Study. Please refer to your financial aid award letter or contact the Financial Aid Office. Each department has its own qualifications and we will match you up as best as we can.
What do I do after I find a job?
You must return the completed work-study contract to the Financial Aid Office. You must also complete W-4 and I-9 Forms and be trained on the time clock software in the Human Resource Office. You cannot be paid without the above documents on file.
How are Work-Study employees paid?
Work-Study employees are paid once a month. Students must sign up for direct deposit. Please see the USF Payroll Department for more information.
What is deducted from Work-Study paychecks?
If the check is large enough, Federal Income Tax is withheld according to the completion of the W-4 Form and applicable withholding regulations. Social Security Tax (FICA) and Medicare are not deducted when the Work-Study employee is enrolled as a full-time student. (12-17 credit hours)
What if I don't earn my entire Work-Study award?
Any unearned Work-Study award is forfeited. Amounts are not carried forward to future enrollment periods.
Can a Work-Study employee work for more than one department?
Possibilities are available. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for further details if you are considering working more than one Work-Study job.
Can I switch jobs?
Once you have accepted a Work-Study job, you are expected to continue at that job until the authorized award is earned. The Financial Aid Office must approve a change in employment since a new Work-Study Contract is required.
Do I have to reapply if I want Work-Study again next year?
Yes. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year in order for Work-Study eligibility to be determined. USF has a priority deadline of January 1 to apply for federal aid.
Can I apply for a work-study position during Summer School?
Yes. A position is not guaranteed, and you'll need to fill out an application and contact the Federal Work-study coordinator to set it up.