About Federal Work Study
Vanderbilt is committed to enrolling talented, motivated students from diverse backgrounds. 62 percent of Vanderbilt students receive some type of aid. The University offers a full range of scholarships, financial aid, and financing options to families of all income levels.
- The Federal Work Study Program (FWSP) is a government-subsidized student employment program designed to assist students in financing their post-secondary education. Work Study is different from other types of part-time jobs because your employer only has to pay about 25% of your wages – the remaining 75% is paid by the FWSP.
- How to Get Work Study: To be eligible for FWS funds, you must demonstrate financial need every year by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Be sure to request FWS on the FAFSA. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible.
- What kinds of jobs are available? Many On-Campus Work Study jobs are clerical, but there are also many jobs in lab research, social science research, photography and curatorship, child care, library services, and housing and food services.
Off-Campus (Community Service) jobs with non-profit employers may include positions in public television, museums, childcare centers, health care clinics, and tutoring programs.
- How much will I be paid? All Work Study jobs pay at least minimum wage and most pay more, depending upon experience and skills. Regardless of your hourly wage, you cannot earn more than your year award amount. Please note that Work Study students are not eligible for paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, or medical and dental insurance through their Work Study job.
