Work-Study

What is Work-Study?
Work-Study is a federal and state-funded, need based financial aid program designed to provide jobs to full-time students to help them meet their school related expenses. Students typically work 8 - 10 hours per week to earn the amount of their award.

How do I apply for Work-Study?

1. You must complete the FAFSA by the priority dates and mark 'yes' to the question on the FAFSA that asks if you are interested in student employment.
2. The FAFSA must be received by the processor by February 15 as funds are limited.
3. The results of the FAFSA must show high financial need to qualify for Work-Study.
4. Your award notification will show either a "College Work-Study" or "Idaho Work-Study" award if you are awarded Work-Study.  If you are, accept it on the web or on your paper notification
   

What do I do once I accept my Work-Study award?

1. You will be prompted to submit an electronic Work-Study Job Preference by logging on to VandalWeb to access the Work-Study Job Directory.
2. Go to one of the Work-Study Orientation sessions in August where you will receive your Job Assignment Referral Form. You will also be informed of any requirements related to obtaining your Work Authorization Card.
3. Take your Job Assignment Referral Form to the listed supervisor to complete the job placement process.
4. Discuss with your potential supervisor the hourly rate you will be paid, your work schedule and job responsibilities.  If you decide the job is not where you would like to work, you need to submit a Job Change Form for a new job referral.

How will I get paid for my work?

1. If you and the supervisor agree this is a job you would like, the supervisor must complete and return your Job Referral Form to the Office of Student Financial Aid Services before you can be paid for your work.
2. The supervisor will enter you into the payroll system; this creates a timesheet so the supervisor can enter your hours worked. Turn in your hours worked to the department supervisor each pay period.  If your supervisor has not given you a timesheet, you can open and save this timesheet template to your computer.
3. You are paid for your work two weeks after your hours are reported and paychecks are issued every two weeks.
4. If you begin working the first week of school, you will receive your first paycheck the last part of September or early October.

Work-Study is taxable income

1. A W-2 will be available the 3rd week in January and must be picked up at Student Accounts in the SUB.
2. You should include the Work-Study earnings on your FAFSA as earned income and on your tax return, if you file a tax return.