Indian Hills Community College

What is Federal Work-Study?

A federal student aid program that provides part-time employment for students with financial need, while the student is enrolled in school. The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program gives students an opportunity to gain valuable work experience while attending college and earn money through part-time on or off-campus jobs. If you’re interested in getting a Federal Work-Study job while you’re enrolled in college, make sure you apply for aid early. The FAFSA® form is the only way to be considered for Federal Work-Study. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is the first step to obtaining federal student aid.

Where do I begin if I’m interested in work-study?

You must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form. The FAFSA form is not only the application for the Federal Pell Grant. It’s also the application for Federal Work-Study funds, federal student loans, and even scholarships and grants offered by your state, school, or a private organization. 
Once your FAFSA® form is processed, you’ll receive a financial aid offer letter. This letter outlines all your financial aid, including FWS, if you're eligible.
Federal Work-Study applications are sent by mail in early August before the beginning of fall term. After fall term begins, applications are mailed weekly to newly awarded students.
If you’ve received your Federal Work-Study application, the next step is finding a job. Just like any other job, students must find, apply for, and interview for positions on their own. Review the job listings below and contact the supervisor listed in the description to arrange an interview.
Take your Federal Work-Study application with you to your interview. Have the supervisor sign your application once you're offered the position.
Next, before you begin working, you will need to complete hiring paperwork at the Bennett Student Services Center, or the Administration Building on Centerville Campus. Completion of hiring forms takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Bring the following items with you:
1. Your signed application,
2. Your original, acceptable, and unexpired documentation from the Lists of Acceptable Documents. Employees may choose to present either: 1) one document selected from List A or 2.) a combination of one selection from List B and one selection from List C, and
3. Your bank account routing number and account number or a blank check.