Federal Work Study
Federal Work Study (FWS) is a source of federally funded, need-based financial aid. Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for FWS. If you demonstrate financial need as determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, you may receive FWS as part of your financial aid summary in your MyBGSU Student Center.
Student Financial Aid and Scholarships also determines the maximum amount of FWS you can earn during the academic year. Additional information can be found on the Financial Aid Federal Work Study FAQs web page.
What is the difference between an FWS job and a Regular Employment job?
The primary difference is in how the jobs are funded. The table below describes the differences between FWS and Regular Employment:
Federal Work Study (FWS) |
Regular Employment |
| Must demonstrate financial need by filing the FAFSA. | Filing the FAFSA is not required. |
| Federal government pays 75% of wages; employing department pays 25%. | Employing department pays 100% of wages. |
| FWS earnings can be excluded when determining eligibility for financial aid the following award year (according to FAFSA instructions). | Wages are considered when calculating need-based financial aid for the following award year. |
| Increasing or decreasing FWS eligibility may affect current year award package. | Regular Employment earnings do not affect current award year aid package. |
| Only FWS-eligible students can work in FWS jobs. | Any student can apply for Regular Employment jobs. |
| FWS students have an earnings limit listed on the award notification. | Regular student employees do not have an earnings limitation. However, the number of hours worked may be limited by department funding levels and the student's eligibility for employment. |
Must meet minimum half-time enrollment requirements:
|
Must meet minimum half-time enrollment requirements when working fall or spring semesters. For regular employment during summer sessions, enrollment is not required IF: 1) student was enrolled at least half time the previous spring semester, and 2) there is evidence of planned (at least half-time) enrollment for the fall semester immediately following. |
How do I apply for Federal Work Study?
You must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for Federal Work Study and other need-based aid. The Student Financial Aid office determines your eligibility for aid, and notifies you in writing. If FWS is not included on your "Notice of Financial Aid Eligibility" and you are interested in a specific FWS job, contact Student Financial Aid at (419) 372-2651. It is possible that you may be eligible to have FWS added to your award "package." Increasing or decreasing your FWS eligibility may affect your other financial aid.
Updated: 03/28/2024 12:37PM