Federal Work Study Program

SUNO Work Study Program

SUNO’s Work-Study program is a federally funded initiative that provides part-time employment opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for their education. The Federal Work-Study program encourages community service work and work related to the student’s course of study. By integrating work experience with academic pursuits, the Federal Work-Study program aims to foster a more affordable and enriching college experience for students while supporting community development and institutional functions.

Students cannot work more than 20 hours a week and earn a minimum of $10.00 an hour on campus for undergraduate student; $12.00 an hour on campus for graduates students and $15.00 an hour off-campus (community service). Job assignments are assigned by the Work-Study Coordinator.

Steps to Apply:

1. Apply for Financial Aid by completing the FAFSA https://fafsa.ed.gov. There is an option stating if you would like to be considered for work-study. Indicate “yes” and you will be notified of an offer if you meet eligibility requirements and funds are available.

2. Once hired you will be notified to attend a Work-Study orientation. You will learn how to become a successful work-study student worker, complete required I-9, L-4, and W-4 forms, and sign your work-study contract. All students (new and returning) must attend an orientation before they can begin working at the assigned site.

Note: Because of limited funding, you need to apply early. Positions will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

CLICK BELOW

Federal Work Study

FAQ

• What is Federal Work Study (FWS)?

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program provides part-time, on campus and off campus (community-based) employment, to students with financial need. FWS employment may be awarded to undergraduate and graduate students during periods of enrollment.

• How to qualify for FWS?

Students must have a current complete FAFSA and indicated “Yes” on the FAFSA when asked if interested in Federal Work-Study. Student should also be enrolled in at least 6 credits.

• I applied for Financial Aid using FAFSA and I didn't get Work Study. Why?

The funding for Work Study goes very fast, so complete your federal work-study application early. Awards are need-based and are made to students who marked on the FAFSA that they are interested in work study. To the best extent possible, awards are made on a first-come, first-serve basis.

• I see on Banner that I have a work-study award. Am I guaranteed to get a work-study position?

No, you are not guaranteed to get a work-study position. Receiving a work study placement depends on the availability of positions.

• What is the pay rate?

FWS students are paid $10.00 an hour for undergraduate student, $12.00 an hour for graduate students and $15.00 an hour for community service positions.

• Can I have my work-study paycheck automatically pay my tuition bill?

No. Wages earned will be paid to you separately from your tuition bill. You must work to earn the award and you won't receive your first paycheck until after the deadline for paying tuition.

• When are timesheets due?

Timesheets are due on the last work day of each month and must be approved by the department supervisor on the last work day of each month.

• How many hours can I work?

FWS student work up to a maximum of 7 hours in a day and 20 hours in a week. Student are not allowed to work during any class time.

• My class was canceled for the day; can I work?

No, students are not allowed to work during any scheduled class time, even if the class is not in session or dismissed early. This includes online classes as well.