The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides part-time employment opportunities for eligible students with financial need. Work-study jobs are typically located on campus or with approved community partners, and you earn a paycheck (just like any other job). It’s a great way to earn money, offset educational expenses, gain experience, and stay connected to campus.
Why Participate?
Federal Work-Study offers more than just a paycheck:
- Build your resume
- Develop professional skills
- Make connections on campus
- Gain experience related to your field of study
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for Federal Work-Study, you must:
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be enrolled at least half-time (6 or more credits)
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements
Not all students who are eligible will automatically receive work-study. Funding is limited.
How Much Can I Earn?
- Pay rate: $14 per hour
- Typical award: Up to $2,500 per academic year
- Students are paid bi-weekly based on hours worked
Your total earnings cannot exceed your awarded amount. If budget allows, you may have the opportunity to earn more than $2,500 in an academic year.
When Can I Work?
For the 2026–2027 academic year:
- Start date: July 10, 2026
- End date: May 8, 2027
Students may only work during this period and must stop once they reach their earnings limit or the program end date.
How to Get a Work-Study Job
1. Apply for Financial Aid
- Submit your FAFSA as early as possible
2. Confirm Your Eligibility and Find a Job
- Once you receive confirmation your FAFSA has been processed, contact your college’s Financial Aid Office, Welcome Center, or One Stop to confirm eligibility
- Receive a list of work-study positions direct from your college and contact supervisors directly to apply
3. Accept Your Award
- If offered a position, you and your supervisor must complete an Employment Contract (PDF), and you must accept your Federal Work-Study award in your financial aid package
4. Complete Hiring & Onboarding
Before starting work, you must:
- Complete required hiring paperwork
- Meet with Human Resources (for I-9 verification)
Important: You cannot begin working until all onboarding steps are complete and you are officially cleared to start.
Working as a Student Employee
Scheduling
- Work schedules are flexible and designed around your classes
- You’ll coordinate hours directly with your supervisor
Hours
- Work-study is part-time and you may never work during scheduled class time
Timesheets & Pay
- You’ll record your hours on a timesheet
- Timesheets must be submitted on time each pay period
- Pay is issued on a bi-weekly schedule
Important Reminders
- You must reapply each year by submitting a new FAFSA
- You must remain enrolled at least half-time to stay eligible
- You cannot earn more than your total work-study award
- You must stop working at the end of the program period
Questions?
If you have questions about Federal Work-Study, contact your college’s Financial Aid Office or Student Services center.
Great Bay Community College: 603-427-7600 x7501, [email protected]
Lakes Region Community College: 603-366-5220, [email protected]
Manchester Community College: 603-206-8110, [email protected]
New Hampshire Technical Institute: 603-230-4013, [email protected]
Nashua Community College: 603-578-8903, [email protected]
River Valley Community College: (603) 542-7744, [email protected]
White Mountains Community College: 603-342-3050, [email protected]