Frequently Asked Questions
What is Federal Work Study?
The Federal Work Study program offers students the opportunity for part-time employment, on and off-campus, while pursuing a college degree at CSCC. The money earned through the program is meant to help pay for living and educational expenses. Eligibility for the program is based on financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This program also provides students the opportunity to gain experience while working with faculty and staff on campus or community members at our approved off-campus employment sites. This added experience can support and enrich the student’s academic experience while at CSCC.
If I decide to participate in the FWS program, will I be assigned a job?
No! Job placement is unfair to you as the student and the departments with which you may have been placed. Finding a job on campus is about finding a good fit for you and an interested department. Employment is not guaranteed and has a great deal to do with the needs of hiring departments and the overall availability of open positions. Current open positions can be viewed at www.cscc.edu/workstudy.
How many hours can I work?
Work study students are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during each academic quarter. The possibility of working over the quarter break is not guaranteed and will determined on a quarter by quarter basis. Students should check with their supervisor or contact the Federal Work Study Coordinator, Clayton Gibson, in Financial Aid to see if break hours will be approved for the upcoming quarter break .
How am I paid?
Work study paychecks are processed through direct deposit. Students are paid twice a month on the 15th and last day of each month.
Will I be taxed for the money I earn?
Yes. Federal Work Study earnings are taxable earnings and subject to local, state, and federal tax laws. You will be issued a W-2 Wage Statement documenting your earnings through the Federal Work Study program within each calendar year.
How long will my award last?
The traditional award amount is $3000. This will provide a student with approximately 400-425 hours worth of eligible work time. Students who work 10-12 hours a week can generally make their award last for three quarters of enrollment. You will only be paid for the hours you work. A work study award is only active for the academic year (e.g. summer 2008-spring 2009) in which it is given. No carry-over of funds is allowed.
Are there any other eligibility requirements?
Students wishing to participate must be enrolled in an Associates
Degree or Certificate program for at least six credits hours per
quarter. A student must also meet the Standards of
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which can be reviewed at:
http://www.cscc.edu/FinancialAid/PDF/SAP.pdf
Failure to currently hold and/or maintain these requirements will make a student immediately ineligible for employment through the Federal Work Study program.
