College Work-Study

You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to see if you qualify for College Work Study.

What is Federal College Work Study?

The federal work study program provides jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay educational expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the students' course of study.

Are work study jobs on-campus or off-campus?

Both. If you work on campus, you will usually work for your school. If you work off campus, your employer will usually be a private non-profit organization or a public agency, and the work performed must be in the public interest.

If I do not qualify for Pell, will I qualify for college work study?

If you are interested in working in college work study even though your Student Aid Report indicates that you are not eligible for a Pell Grant, you should inquire in the Financial Aid Office about your eligibility for a College Work Study position.

Does it matter what my grades are?

Yes. Your academic status will be considered before you are awarded college work study. If you are not meeting the Standards of Progress for financial aid recipients, you will not be eligible for college work study.

How much will I be paid?

Your federal work study salary will be at least the current federal minimum wage. Your total federal work study award depends on when you apply, your level of need and the funding level of your school.

How will I be paid?

Your supervisor will submit your number of hours worked to the Personnel Office. You will be paid by the hour on the 15th of each month; if the 15th falls on the weekend, you will be paid the Friday before. Checks may be picked up at the payroll window in the Office of Finance and Budget.

How do I keep track of my hours?

The Financial Aid Office will request time sheets on a weekly basis from Data Processing. The time sheets are an identical copy of your class schedule. Class hours will be blocked on your time sheet

You are not permitted to work during class hours.

Do I have to be enrolled to participate in the college work study program?

Yes. You have to be enrolled for at least half-time. Your summer award will depend on the availability of funds.

What if I do not like the job or the supervisor?

Jobs are limited; however, if you do not like your job, contact the college work study coordinator. If positions are available, they will attempt to place you in a different job. Before you start working, you will be sent on an interview with the prospective supervisor.

Can I be fired?

Yes. Just like any other job, you can lose your position if your performance is unsatisfactory or if you do not adhere to the requirements of being a college work study student.

College work study is time which you must allow for working, NOT time for studying.

What forms do I need to complete?

You will be required to sign an Award Letter, a W-4 form and an I-9 form. You will also need to provide to the Financial Aid Office copies of your:

• Social Security Card
• Valid Driver's License

If you cannot provide either one of these documents, others forms will be required such as:

• U.S. Passport
• Valid State ID
• Birth Certificate (original or certified copy)

You will not be permitted to start working until all required documents are received.

Will I receive any benefits?

No. You are not entitled to benefits such as lunch, vacations, medical, etc.

Is college work study taxable income?

Yes. Income earned while working as a college work study student is taxable and needs to be reported on your tax return along with any other income earned.

Will I receive a W-2 form?

Yes. You will receive a W-2 form from Seminole Community College. Be sure that your address is always correct to avoid any unnecessary delays. Address updates need to be made at the Records Office. Expect to receive your W-2 form the latter part of January.

Do I report my college work study earnings when I apply for Federal Student Aid?

If you file a tax return, keep copies of your W-2 forms. The amount earned in college work study should be reported as an income exclusion (see Worksheet #3, Section F).

Codes of Conduct

• No personal phone calls (except in emergencies)
• No personal visitors
• Be courteous, honest, punctual
• Keep confidentiality
• Advise your supervisor when you are unable to be at work

Dress Code

• No short shorts
• No bare midriff type shirts
• No low-cut blouses, short dresses, skirts, etc.

Remember: You will be working in an office environment.