How do I get a work study job?

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Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program

Program Overview

The Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program provides part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. The program helps students earn money to assist with educational expenses while maintaining a work schedule that accommodates their class commitments.

Whenever possible, work-study positions are related to a student's course of study or involve community service.

Eligibility for Federal Work-Study is determined through the FAFSA.
 

Program Highlights

  • Most Federal Work-Study positions are located on campus, though some off-campus opportunities may be available.
  • Work-study earnings are paid directly to students through payroll.
  • Earnings are not automatically applied to outstanding student account balances.
  • Federal Work-Study funding is limited.
  • Eligibility does not guarantee employment or placement in a position.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for Federal Work-Study, students must:

  • Have a FAFSA on file.
  • Demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA information.
  • Be enrolled in at least six program-applicable credit hours.
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
  • Meet KCTCS hiring requirements.
  • Be selected for employment by a supervisor.
  • Have available work-study funding and an open position.

Award Determination Factors

The total Federal Work-Study award may vary based on:

  • When the application is submitted
  • The student's financial need and cost of attendance
  • Available institutional funding
  • Successful job placement
  • Number of enrolled credit hours
  • Number of work hours available each week
  • Length of employment
  • Anticipated wage rate

Pay Rates and Earnings Limits

Pay Rate

  • Federal Work-Study positions pay $12.00 per hour.
  • Students are paid directly through the college payroll system.
     

Payroll Schedule

  • Paychecks are issued on the 15th and 30th of each month.
     

Earnings Limits

  • Students may be eligible to work up to 20 hours per week, depending on available funding and unmet financial need.
  • Earnings cannot exceed the student's total Federal Work-Study award.
  • The award amount listed in the financial aid package represents the maximum amount a student may earn during the award period.
  • Actual earnings may be less than the awarded amount based on hours worked and duration of employment.

Application Process

To apply for Federal Work-Study:

  1. Complete the FWS Application (PDF).
  2. Submit the completed application to the OCTC Financial Aid Office.
  3. Applications remain on file for one academic year.

If a supervisor selects a student for employment:

  • The Financial Aid Office will process the Federal Work-Study award.
  • The award will be added to the student's financial aid package.
  • Students will be paid for hours worked according to the approved payroll schedule.

Declining a Work-Study Award

Students who do not wish to participate in the Federal Work-Study Program may decline their award through their Student Self-Service account.

Additional Information and Contact Resources

For additional information, visit the Work Study page.

Students may also contact:

Rosa Gogel
Phone: (270) 686-4467
Email: rosa.gogel@kctcs.edu

Additional assistance is available through the OCTC Financial Aid Office.

(Financial Aid > Applying for Aid)

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