Work-Study Program
The Federal Work-Study Program provides students who have financial need with an opportunity for flexible part-time employment. In order for students to establish work-study eligibility, they must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Students work an average of five hours per week and are eligible to earn a specific dollar amount, as determined by their financial need. The average work-study award is $2,000 per school year.
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.
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.
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.
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.