When you accept a Federal Work-Study (FWS) award in Athena, you agree to follow the responsibilities and policies outlined below.
Finding and Maintaining Employment
- FWS jobs are not guaranteed. Students must actively search for, apply to, and secure a qualifying FWS position in order to earn FWS funds
- FWS earnings are paid only for hours actually worked
Maintaining Eligibility
To remain eligible for FWS throughout the semester, students must:
- Be enrolled at least half-time
- Have an unmet financial need equal to or greater than the semester minimum ($1,500) or current award amount
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
- Complete verification, if selected by the Office of Student Financial Aid
If any eligibility criteria are not met, or if there is a chance eligibility may change, students must promptly notify their supervisor and/or the Assistant Director for FWS.
If you receive a scholarship, grant, stipend, or other type of financial assistance, contact your supervisor or the Assistant Director for FWS to confirm whether your award affects FWS eligibility.
Earnings and Hours
- Keep track of your FWS earnings to ensure you do not exceed your semester award limit
- You may not work more than 20 hours per week (Sunday through Saturday)
- You may only work within your official dates of eligibility, which typically run from the first day of classes through the last day of finals each semester
Work Conduct and Expectations
Maintain satisfactory work performance by:
- Following your work schedule and reporting on time
- Completing assigned duties and following instructions
- Demonstrating professionalism, including appropriate attire and behavior
Students are not permitted to work during regularly scheduled class or exam times. You may work during those times only if the class or exam has been cancelled or officially excused, and you have provided verifiable proof to your supervisor or departmental liaison before reporting to work.
Employment Status
Under Section 8 of the Board of Regents Policy Manual, student employees are considered temporary employees. This means that either the student or the employer may end the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, without notice. Such separations are not grievable or subject to appeal.
For any questions, please get in touch with the Assistant Director for Federal Work-Study at [email protected].