Federal Work Study
The Federal Work Study (FWS) program is a part-time employment opportunity that is contingent upon federal funding. Eligibility for the FWS program is determined based on information provided on the FAFSA and the applicant's academic school or program. Qualifying students who apply for financial aid and meet need-based eligibility requirements will be considered for this program. Eligible students will see a FWS offer with a maximum amount that can be earned during the academic year included in their financial aid package. Once a student accepts a FWS offer, they will also be required to apply and interview for a qualifying position.
Federal Work-Study positions open on Emory's Handshake in early August for fall and remain open for spring through late February. The Federal Work-Study positions may be located on or off campus and may even include community service opportunities.
Once a student employee is selected for a specific FWS position and has completed all necessary financial aid and hiring paperwork, they can begin work. Most students in FWS positions typically work 10-20 hours per week.
Review frequently asked questions about FWS below.
FWS Frequently Asked Questions
Hourly wages for student positions range from $15.00 to $18.00 for undergraduate students and $15.00 to $20.00 for graduate students, depending on the complexity of and skills required for the job.
Students typically work between 10 and 20 hours per week. In fact, FWS students are only allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during periods of enrollment and 40 hours during non-enrolled periods, such as winter or spring breaks.
Student employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis.
No. Your earnings will be deposited into your personal bank account via direct deposit and will not be posted to your student account.
Yes.
Yes! You can change your FWS position at any time during the semester. We do recommend you provide your employer at least two weeks' notice before the change takes effect so that all necessary paperwork can be completed in a timely fashion. Before beginning your new position, you must be fully terminated from your previous position and notify your new employer of your previous FWS position.
Yes. FWS earnings are taxable income. Additionally, for periods in which you work more than 20 hours in a week, FICA (Social Security) taxes will be deducted from your payroll. Student employees will receive a W-2 form at the end of each calendar year from Emory Human Resources.
Your department will notify you when you reach your maximum earnings. If your department has the funding to continue your position and pay you from departmental funds, they will make every attempt to do so. If, however, their funding does not permit this option, they will terminate the assignment.