Federal Work-Study

Information for Students

The intent of the program is to assist students with paying for educational expenses. FWS jobs are available during the Fall and Spring semesters to undergraduate, credential and graduate students who meet federal and institutional eligibility requirements.

FWS is considered earned wages. It is not a lump sum grant. You are eligible to earn up to the dollar amount listed on your financial aid package over the course of the term / academic year. You are not guaranteed this money, nor are you required to earn it all.

As part of your financial aid package, Federal Work Study jobs provide an amazing opportunity to earn part of your college costs rather than increasing the amount you borrow through loans.

There are many benefits to choosing a Federal Work Study position. Funds for FWS positions are partially subsidized by Federal Student Aid which makes you a highly sought-after employee, because FWS saves employers money! 

Benefits of FWS

Professional Growth

Gain valuable job skills and experiences. Build your resume and learn to write a dynamic, job-specific cover letter. Students who have job experience and who have worked while attending school are more attractive to future employers. Your supervisor may become an excellent reference.

Build Campus Connections

Campus research has shown that FWS students connect with the campus community, learn about resources available to students, and establish stronger relationships with faculty and staff. Employers prioritize your education, and are as flexible as possible in scheduling work hours.

Prepare For Your Future

Find major-related work for an edge on graduate school applications or a career job search. Meet students, work with professionals, and expand your social and career networks. Students with FWS jobs are more likely to stay in school, perform better academically, and graduate.

FWS Getting Hired Steps


Searching for a position is easy! Go to the Career Center website and login to Handshake to review the job listings for students for Federal Work Study.  Follow the application directions for the jobs you are applying for.

If you are having problems finding a job you may want to seek assistance from the Career Center. They can help you develop a resume, prepare for interviews, explore careers and have many other important and valuable resources.

We want you to know that the types of jobs vary, as the semester progresses along there may be fewer open positions listed. Make sure you pay attention to the needs of the employer (if they are seeking specific majors, availability).  If you are interested in a position, writing a cover letter or email to the employer may be a great way to introduce yourself, highlight your skills, and show your interest in the job. 

General Process to find a FWS position

  1. Go to BroncoDirect to review and accept your Federal Work Study offer.
  2. If looking for a new position, go to the Career Center website and login to Handshake to review the job and apply for listings for students for Federal Work Study Awards
  3. Provide a copy of your financial aid summary to the interviewer or your supervisor to confirm your FWS eligibility. 

Once you have found and been offered a position

  1. Complete the required paperwork (Employment Agreement provided by Employer)
  2. Human Resources will contact you regarding an appointment for the and documentation (I-9)
  3. You may start working once you receive clearance from Human Resources
  4. Employment Agreement forms must be completed each fall semester— even if you do not change jobs.

If you have been awarded Federal Work Study (FWS), you may begin working and earning Federal Work Study starting September 1st, provided your financial aid file is complete.

Please note: Students with a conditionally classified status (such as qualifying for credential or qualifying for master's) are not eligible to participate in the Federal Work Study Program.

Federal Work Study positions are available during the Fall and Spring semesters for eligible undergraduate, credential and graduate students. 

  • For an academic year offer, you may work from the first day of classes in September 1st through the last day of finals in the spring semester finals.
  • For a Fall Only Offer, you may work from September 1st through the last day of fall semester finals.
  • For a Spring Only offer, you may work from the first day of spring classes in January through the last day of spring finals.

You may earn up to your total Federal Work Study offered for the academic year, half each semester. If you would like to earn the dollar amount listed on your financial aid package, you will need to find a job and work the appropriate amount of hours. Students may work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks or when classes are not in session, provided you do not exceed your total Federal Work Study award.

You must stop working immediately in the following situations

  • When you reach your Earnings Limit. A Federal Work Study Offer Balance (PDF) form is available to help you keep a monthly balance of your earnings so you do not exceed your offer for any semester.
  • If you have a financial aid hold (check BroncoDirect)
  • If you drop below half-time enrollment at any time during the semester
  • If you are no longer eligible for aid under the Cal Poly Pomona Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for aid applicants.
  • If you are graduating, you must stop working on the last day of finals for the semester

Unearned fall amounts

If you do not earn up to your full Earnings Limit during the fall semester, you can use unearned amounts in the spring — but you cannot carry them over to the summer period.

The FWS amount offered is what you can earn through a job. Students receive a paycheck once a month for the hours worked; paychecks are typically issued on the 15th of every month.

  • You will be paid for hours worked during each pay period.  Pay periods do not always fall within a calendar month, so follow the Pay Period Schedule.
  • If you would like to earn the dollar amount listed on your financial aid package, you will need to find a job and work the appropriate amount of hours. You will receive the money in monthly paychecks based on your hourly wage and hours worked.
  • Your employer must submit your Student Assistant Time Report (CD048) each month using the Pay Period Schedule. Late timesheets will not be accepted. Employer will have to pay your worked hours from non-work study account.
  • FWS wages are subject to State and Federal taxes. You will receive a W-2 at the end of each calendar year. Please check with the IRS to see if you are required to file a State or Federal income tax return.
  • FWS students are not entitled to benefits such as overtime pay, paid holidays, paid vacation, paid sick leave, unemployment insurance or permanent status.

Classifications and Pay Rates

  • Job classification and pay rates are based on the specific type of job you obtain.
  • Pay rates are listed on each job description in Handshake.
  • Employers can request pay raises for Federal Work Study students based on increased job responsibility and/or length of employment.

Rights as FWS Student Employee

  • Be given clear instructions and training for the job
  • Be paid for the hours you work
  • Work in a safe, drug-free, non-threatening environment
  • Be treated fairly and without discrimination or sexual harassment
  • Receive worker's compensation coverage in case of an on the job injury
  • Request a pay increase based on change in job duties, length of employment, or exceptional performance (an increase is not guaranteed)

Responsibilities as a FWS Student Employee

  • Read and complete all required paperwork
  • Complete the hiring process with your employer, ensuring that all required documents have been provided to Human Resources.
  • Notify your supervisor of any changes to your Federal Work Study Offer amount
  • Work with your supervisor to keep accurate records of hours worked so as not to exceed the FWS allocation
  • Complete and submit your time on-time in PeopleSoft
  • Abide by any dress code, and present yourself in a professional manner while on the job
  • Show up to work on time
  • Notify your supervisor promptly of any changes in your class schedule
  • Maintain half-time enrollment at all times. If you drop below half-time, you cannot continue to earn funds through the FWS position.
  • Maintain eligibility under the Cal Poly Pomona Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid Applicants.
  • Reapply each year by completing a new FAFSA by the March 2nd Priority Filing deadline.

Remember: this is a real job; take it seriously. Do not conduct personal business while on the job.

The Cal Poly Pomona Career Center provides a number of services, including:

  • Writing an effective resume and cover letter
  • Interview techniques
  • Finding an internship
  • Assistance for students with disabilities
If you are not eligible for work study, the Career Center's job search lists student employment positions that do not require FWS

If you decide not to accept your Federal Work Study offer

If you choose not to accept your Federal Work Study offer, there is no effect on your grant aid. If you have not been awarded your maximum loan amount, you could qualify for more loan money. If you wish to cancel your FWS award and request remaining loan eligibility, contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships by sending an email to workstudy@cpp.edu indicating that you will like to cancel your work study award and increase your loan amount. Be sure to include the specific loan amount you are requesting for the academic year.

Next Steps

Apply for a Job!
Career Center Services
Enroll in Direct Deposit