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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:
- Complete the FWS Application (PDF).
- Submit the completed application to the OCTC Financial Aid Office.
- 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)