Federal Work-Study is a program that…

1. Allows eligible students the opportunity to work on campus or with an approved community-service partner part-time, and
2. is based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA.

Work-study awards are not grants or scholarships automatically applied towards your tuition bill, and there is no guaranteed amount. An award simply lets you participate in the program and sets a limit as to how much you can earn during the academic year.

Additional details about work-study requirements and procedures:

• Work-study allows students to earn part of their financial aid through employment on campus and in community service agencies.
• Any work-study award, Federal College Work-Study (FCWS) or College Work-Study (SCWS), listed on your award letter shows the maximum amount you may earn during the academic year (August-May).
• Work-study awards are not grants or scholarships automatically applied towards one’s billing statement, nor is the amount of the award guaranteed. An award simply authorizes a student to participate in the program and sets a limit as to the amount of income a student can earn during the academic year.
• Information and instructions will be emailed to you from the Financial Aid office.
• All students working at SMC must complete an IRS Form W-4, and I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form and a Work Authorization Form. Forms are distributed by the Office of Financial Aid. Please do not begin working until you have completed the required forms. We cannot list you on the student payroll (and you will not be paid) until all forms have been completed correctly and in full.
• Students have one week after the beginning of each semester to secure their jobs and begin working. Those who do not find a job and begin working within that one-week period will forfeit their offer for a work-study position.
• Students will apply for job listings via Handshake. If a supervisor is interested in interviewing you, they will reach out to the Financial Aid office to determine whether or not you are eligible for the work-study position if you haven’t already been offered Word-Study on your financial aid offer letter.