The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is a federally subsidized student employment program offered to needy students as an alternative to high interest loans. Students earn money while attending school thus reducing reliance on student loans. Students employed under the FWS program can work on or off campus in a wide variety of jobs. Examples of on-campus employment opportunities include research, audio-visual tech and office clerk. Off-campus employment is available through various local community service organizations, MWU sponsored community outreach events, or off-campus research opportunities. Community service organizations and off-campus research opportunities must be approved by the Office of Student Financial Services before a student can start working. Students cannot be paid for community service work or any research position if it is a class requirement and they are earning academic credit at the same time.
Students employed in work-study jobs earn $20.00 per hour.
A student must demonstrate need in order to be eligible for FWS funds. This is determined by completing the FAFSA. A student interested in participating in the FWS program should indicate his/her interest by selecting "Yes" to question #31 on the FAFSA. Eligible students will initially be awarded between $3,000 and $4,500 for the academic year. Students that want to earn more should contact the Federal Work-Study Administrator at their campus to determine additional eligibility. Only those students who are eligible for FWS may apply for FWS positions.
Midwestern University policy limits work to no more than forty (40) hours per week; a maximum of 80 hours of work in any pay period. The university actively discourages employment that will conflict with a student's ability to perform academically; therefore, it is recommended students work at maximum twenty (20) hours per week while classes are in session.
If you have been awarded FWS and are interested in signing up, please view the Available Positions. Complete the appropriate Employment Forms and return them to the Office of Student Financial Services. For more information or questions please contact the Federal Work-Study Administrator at your campus.
Federal Work-Study Handbook for Students and Supervisors