Federal Work Study
Welcome to Work Study! Federal Work Study jobs provide an amazing opportunity to earn part of your college costs rather than increasing the amount you borrow through loan.
You will need to create an account at collegecentral.com/canadacollege. Then sign in and search by typing “Federal Work Study” in the search field. To Apply for positions you are interested in you will need to upload a resume to your profile. Once we get your application we will verify your are eligible for Federal Work Study and get scheduled for an interview with the supervisors.
Federal Work Study Student Basics
What is Federal Work Study (FWS)?
- Federal Study is a need-based federal student aid program that gives you the opportunity to earn money through part-time employment on the Cañada College campus, or in limited positions in the community.
- The intent of the program is to assist students with paying for educational expenses. FWS jobs are available during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters students who meet federal and institutional eligibility requirements.
The less debt you graduate with, the more choices you'll have in life!
When you take part in work-study with Cañada you will:
- Gain valuable job skills and experiences.
- Build your resume and create a vibrant, job-specific cover letter.
- Find major-related work for an edge on graduate school applications or a career job search.
- Meet students, work with professionals, and expand your social and career networks.
- Be more confident talking to recruiters at job fairs.
There are three advantages for a federal work study student:
- The subsidy makes you a highly sought-after employee.
- Federal Work Study earnings do not count against your aid eligibility when you fill out the next year's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Federal Work Study gives you the opportunity to earn part of your college costs rather than increase your loans. The less debt you graduate with, the more choices you'll have in life.
In general, to be eligible for a Federal Work Study offer to be included in your aid package, you must:
- File your FAFSA by the March 2 Priority Filing deadline. (Note: FAFSA is available each year beginning October 1).
- Answer "Yes" to question 31 on the FAFSA, "Are you interested in being considered for work-study?".
- Demonstrate financial need, as determined by the Financial Aid Office.
- Submit all requested financial aid documentation from your WebSMART requirements by the due date.
- Remain enrolled at least half-time while working under the program.
- Maintain eligibility for aid under Cañada College Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid Applicants while working under the program.
How can I tell if I am eligible for FWS?
If you are unsure if you are eligible please contact the Financial Aid Office (canadafinancialaid@smccd.edu) and they can assist you in determining your eligibility with the program.
Income
Why Choose Federal Work Study? Pocket money for things you want and need.
Opportunity
Although you are not guaranteed a job if you are awarded Work-Study, you are much more likely to be hired if you have Work-Study eligibility. In addition, your job will be close to where you study.
Student-Friendly Schedule
Your employer knows your first priority is as a college student. Employers try to be as flexible as possible in scheduling work hours around your class schedule.
Future Financial Aid Eligibility
As a financial aid need-based program. Work-Study income (although taxable) does not affect your future financial aid eligibility in the next tax year.
Work Experience
Students who have job experience and who have worked while attending school are more attractive to future employers. Your supervisor may become an excellent reference.
Academic Success
Campus research has shown that Work-Study students connect with the campus community, learn about resources available to students, and establish stronger relationships with faculty and staff. This correlates with the fact that students with Work-Study jobs are more likely to stay in school, perform better academically, and graduate.
Questions? Contact us!
Jonathan Como (Financial Aid Technician)
Student Services - Financial Aid Services