Key takeaways
- Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federal student aid program that allows qualified students to earn income through part-time employment.
- Work-study jobs are typically on campus and may offer schedules that work well with classes.
- Regular part-time jobs can offer greater variety and provide higher pay or experience in a particular industry.
- Both types of opportunities can offer valuable work experience, but the right choice for you depends on your financial situation, schedule, and goals.
College is expensive, but working while you’re in school may help cover your expenses. If you’re looking for a job, you may be wondering if a work-study program or part-time job is the better fit.
A work-study job may offer flexible hours and a convenient on-campus location while non-work-study jobs may provide higher pay, more hours, and more options.
So, which one is right for you? The answer depends on your finances, schedule, goals, and the type of work you want. Let’s explore the differences so you can find the right fit.
What is a work-study job?
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a student aid program that helps students earn money through part-time work. To be considered for this program, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and meet your school’s requirements.
If work-study is included in your financial aid package, you can apply for work-study jobs that are available at your school. You earn income by working and receiving a paycheck. Jobs may be available on campus or, in some cases, through approved off-campus opportunities. Depending on your school, you could work in a library, office, research department, tutoring program, or community service position.
What is a non-work-study job?
A non-work-study job is a regular part-time job that is not included in your financial aid package. You can apply for these opportunities whether you qualify for work-study or not. You might find a part-time job at a coffee shop, restaurant, retail store, or a local business. Or, you could also look for a paid position related to your major or career interests.
Unlike work-study, these jobs aren’t limited to employers that participate in FWS. This gives you more options as you’re looking for the right fit.
What are the pros and cons of work-study vs. non-work-study jobs?
Both work-study and non-work-study jobs can help students earn money and gain valuable experience in college. However, they differ in areas such as job availability, flexibility, earnings, and financial aid. Consider these pros and cons when deciding which option may be a better fit.
| Work-study jobs | Non-work-study jobs | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Earn money for college expenses | More jobs to choose from |
| Build workplace skills and potentially gain career-related experience | Potentially more hours and earnings | |
| Often located on campus, making them convenient | Greater flexibility in where you work, including off campus | |
| Work-study earnings generally don’t affect future financial aid eligibility | No work-study eligibility required | |
| Network with professors, staff, and other students | ||
| Cons | Fewer available positions | Off-campus jobs may require a commute |
| Earnings are limited by your work-study award | The job may not relate to your career goals | |
| Requires FAFSA and meeting eligibility requirements | Income may affect future financial aid eligibility, depending on the amount and circumstances | |
| More hours and commuting can make balancing work and school harder |
How does work-study affect student loans?
Work-study and student loans can help you pay for college, but in different ways. With a student loan, you’ll borrow money that you will likely need to pay back later with interest. With work-study, you earn money that you can use for daily expenses or put toward your loans.
Work-study can help reduce how much you need to borrow or help you make loan payments while in school. While it probably won’t offset all your expenses, you can still consider other financial aid options like scholarships and grants.
If you want to graduate with less student debt, think about how much you can realistically earn from work-study while balancing your classes and other responsibilities.
How can you find a work-study job?
If you qualify for a work-study program, your school’s financial aid office is usually a good place to start. Your school may have a job board where you can look at available positions and apply.
Here are a few ways to get started:
- Check your financial aid: Find out if Federal Work-Study is part of your financial aid package.
- Contact your financial aid office: Ask where you can find work-study opportunities.
- Search for jobs early: Since work-study positions can be limited, it may help to get started as soon as possible.
- Talk to professors and staff: They may know about available opportunities on campus.
- Apply and prepare for interviews: Look for jobs that interest you and get ready to share why you’re well-suited for the position based on your experience and skill set.
How can you balance a work-study or non-work-study job with classes?
Balancing a college job with your classes is possible with some planning. Before you agree to work a certain number of hours per week, look at your class schedule. Think about when you can do homework, study, and rest. Try to choose hours that easily fit around your classes instead of committing to a schedule that leaves you rushing from one thing to the next.
A job is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience for your future career, but it’s also important to earn good grades along the way. If your workload starts to feel overwhelming, talk to your manager about your hours. Giving yourself enough time to sleep, study, and relax can help you do your best at work and school.
Tips for working while in college
Working in college can be a valuable experience, but you may feel like you’re managing many different responsibilities at once. Here are some tips that may help:
- Create a weekly schedule: Write down your class times, work shifts, study time, and other important commitments.
- Keep track of deadlines: Include exams, projects, and other assignments on your calendar so they don’t sneak up on you.
- Plan your work hours carefully: If possible, choose shifts that allow enough time to study and get your schoolwork done.
- Use small blocks of free time: You may be able to review class notes or get started on an assignment during a work break.
Don’t forget to give yourself enough time to rest. This will help you regain your energy when you need it.
Ready to plan your college future?
Whether you’re interested in a work-study or part-time job, balancing work with college can be challenging, but it is possible. By keeping track of your commitments and managing your time well, you can earn money and gain work experience while you’re in school.
Ready to take the next step today? Check out College Raptor’s FREE Career Finder tool to explore opportunities, salaries, and job outlook.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to work while you’re in college?
Working while you’re in college can help you earn money, get work experience, and build valuable skills. However, it helps to find an opportunity that fits with your college schedule.
How many hours should a college student work?
The right answer is different for every student. The hours you can easily work in a week may be higher or lower than your classmates. To find your answer, think about your class schedule and responsibilities outside of school. Remember not to overfill your schedule and allow some time to rest.
What should I do if I’m having a hard time balancing work and school?
If your schedule becomes too challenging to manage, look for ways to adjust your work hours or other commitments. You can also discuss your options with your employer.
Can a college job help me get a job after graduation?
Yes. A college job could help you gain experience and develop transferable skills that employers value. Jobs related to your major or career goals can be particularly beneficial as you begin your career.
