- Federal Work-study (FWS) is a need-based financial aid program funded by the federal government and WMU.
- FWS is awarded to students based on need, availability of funds and if the student indicated "Yes" on the FAFSA.
- FWS wages are counted as part of the student’s financial aid award package.
- Not all students will qualify/receive FWS. Eligibility is based on FAFSA submission and corresponding award.
- International students are not eligible to apply for FWS.
- Students must be, and remain, enrolled during the period of employment.
- These funds are awarded to the student, not to the job or employing department.
- Departments may request to hire students with a work-study award. Once the work-study award is spent, any additional payment is the responsibility of the hiring department.
- Students with a work-study award may use that at any campus job. Students with work-study may also work off-campus in approved community service work-study non-profit sites.
- Students with a work-study award are subject to the same employment definitions and expectations as other student employees.
Quick Guide to Work-Study
College work-study is a need-based financial aid program funded by the federal government and Western Michigan University. It is awarded to students based on need who are enrolled at least half time during the period of their employment. Unlike grants and scholarships, work-study awards are earned and paid through the payroll process in the form of a bi-weekly pay. Work-study awards and amounts are subject to eligibility requirements and fund availability.
Students with a work-study award are subject to the same employment definitions and expectations as other student employees.
For more information, review the information below, and visit the financial aid website.