What Are Work-Study Programs?
Let’s first take a look at a brief history of work-study programs in the United States. The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program started in 1964 as a federal policy tool. Then and now, it’s designed to promote access to college education through financial aid. Indeed, demonstrated financial aid is its primary criterion.
Since 1964, over 33 million students have received work-study benefits. For every ten full-time freshman undergraduates, one receives work-study benefits. Suffice it to say that the FWS is a success.
Today, the state governments and universities have their work-study programs, too. These usually complement the federal work-study program.
Featured Programs
This leads us to the question: What are work-study programs? These are financial aid programs funded by the federal and state governments. Texas, California, and Minnesota are among the states with state-funded work-study programs.
Many universities also have work-study programs funded by institutional sources. The University of California System is a prime example.
While every work-study program has unique features, these share common characteristics.
It’s a need-based form of financial aid.
You must demonstrate financial need, usually an unmet need, to qualify. This is where a complete and accurate FAFSA form comes in. As a need-based financial aid, you don’t need to repay it.
It provides part-time employment while you study.
You will engage in part-time work and receive wages for your hours worked. As an employee, you must follow the rules and regulations of your employer. You will continue with your studies. In fact, work-study programs usually require at least half-time or part-time enrollment.
It’s intended to cover college costs.
Your wages are usually deposited in your personal bank account. As such, you have complete control over its spending. Of course, it’s best to use it to cover college costs that aren’t covered in your scholarships and grants.
It’s also available for online students.
Both undergraduate and graduate online students can apply for work-study programs. Many work-study positions involve remote work or telecommuting, too. But there are also in-person jobs in on-campus and off-campus sites, if you prefer them.
Work-study programs for online students can be more flexible in scheduling, too. This acknowledges that many online students also juggle personal and professional commitments. Many online students are also working professionals and adult learners with families.
How Work-Study Programs Benefit Online College Students
In itself, an online college benefits students through affordable, accessible, and quality education. When work-study programs come into the picture, things become even better. As financial aid for online students, these programs reduce the cost of college. At the same time, earning while learning results in many benefits, too.
Here’s a quick rundown of the benefits that online students enjoy from work-study programs.
Obtain financial support for college expenses.
Getting a college education can be expensive. The gross cost of an online degree is $54,231 per year, on average. However, financial aid, such as scholarships, can result in significant savings.
However, scholarships and grants cannot cover every college-related expense. If you’re in a work-study program, you can earn extra income. You can use your wages for expenses not covered by these financial aid options. Think about your living and incidental expenses, for example.
Plus, you won’t take on as many student loans, thanks to your extra income. The average total student loan debt is $40,681 – a significant amount, indeed.
Reduced financial pressure can result in better academic performance. With good academic progress comes a higher chance of degree completion.
Gain relevant work experience.
Work-study programs usually offer students a wide range of jobs. You should be able to choose from jobs relevant to your field of study. Even if you choose a non-related job, your work experience will boost your resume. Employers acknowledge that working students can bring more value to the workplace.
You will also develop knowledge and skills with real-world applications in the future. We’re not only talking about hard skills, such as computer skills but also soft skills. Employers value communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills the most.
If you’re entering a competitive industry, such as IT and healthcare, both will increase your employment chances. You have real-world work experience to back up your interview statements.
Being a part-time employee also expands your network. The wider your network, the more connections you have for job referrals and references. Your first job can even be with your employer as a working student.
Enjoy flexible schedules.
Work-study programs usually offer flexible schedules for many reasons. Online students, for example, must balance personal, academic, and professional commitments.
Flexible schedules are then a must to enable them to succeed at work and in school. Otherwise, the main goal of work-study programs – increased education access – is in vain.
Even if you initially think that a work-study program isn’t for you, be sure to consider it. You will find that beyond the extra income, it comes with great rewards, too.
Types of Work-Study Jobs Available for Online Students
Work-study jobs can be on-campus and off-campus positions. If you want in-person, on-campus jobs, you will likely find plenty of opportunities. Keep in mind that you must have convenient access or efficient transportation to and from the campus. Be sure to consider the transportation expenses against your estimated income.
If you prefer remote or telecommuting jobs, you’ll find them, too. There’s little to no need for traveling, meaning less transportation expenses. However, you must be in regular communication with your supervisor and teammates. Your tech setup, particularly your personal computer and Internet connection, must be up to par, too.
There’s such a wide range of online work-study opportunities that you’ll find the right ones for you. Remote and telecommuting jobs include:
- Virtual administrative assistants whose main duties include clerical and administrative tasks
- Online tutors who provide academic support for fellow students in specific subject areas
- Virtual customer service representatives who handle customer inquiries and provide customer support
- Research assistants who perform remote work, such as data analysis and literature reviews
- Social media managers whose job is to create content and maintain social media accounts
Online students can take on-campus jobs, too. You can do that based on your interests and goals. But you may also venture out of your comfort zone.
These on-campus jobs are usually in an administrative or clerical capacity. Working students work under the supervision of university employees.
- Library assistants
- Office assistants
- Campus tour guides
- College marketing associates
- IT assistants or tech support associates
- Tutors
- Fitness center assistants
- Lab assistants or research assistants
- Mailroom assistants
Work-study opportunities are also available in off-campus locations, including:
- Nonprofit organizations
- Community service organizations
- Government agencies
Examples of work-study job types offered by these entities include:
- Community outreach coordinators
- Tutors for at-risk children and youth or adult learners
- Food pantry assistants
- Shelter support staff
- Parks and recreation aide
Indeed, it’s a great time to be in a work-study program.
How to Apply for a Work-Study Program
Applying for a work-study program demands time and effort. Here are the basic steps to get you started in the right direction.
- Determine your eligibility first. As a form of tuition assistance for online students, demonstrated financial need is the primary criterion.
- Complete the online FAFSA form. Be sure to fill in the required fields with complete and accurate information. Double-check, too. Attach or submit the required supporting documents, such as W-2 forms and tax returns. Submit your FAFSA form ahead of the deadline, if possible.
- Review your Student Aid Report and make the necessary corrections. Your eligibility for work-study programs may well depend on your SAR.
- Understand your Financial Aid Award Letter as soon as you receive it. You must take note of the types of financial aid you’re eligible for, such as work-study.
- Communicate with your online university’s financial aid office. You can ask for information about your work-study terms. Be sure to ask about the available work-study positions, particularly a job portal.
- Apply for the available work-study positions you’re interested in. Treat the work-study application process as if it’s a job application because it is. Prepare a strong cover letter and resume, provide letters of recommendation. Prepare for the interview.
Once you’ve been hired, you must strive to be a good employee. Your employment contract will have specific terms and conditions that should be followed. Keep in mind that the extra income will come in handy.
Balancing Work-Study with Online Courses
Balancing work and study online isn’t easy. You will encounter many common challenges of student employment in online education. Scheduling conflicts, stress and burnout from juggling responsibilities, and below-par academic performance are examples.
Fortunately, you can adopt these effective tips in balancing your work and academic responsibilities.
- Set clear boundaries between your studies and work. If it’s your study time, then focus on your studies. At work, be the best employee you can be. (Use work breaks, however, to catch up on school work, if necessary)
- Create a flexible schedule. Even with set class and work schedules, there will be changes. Be flexible in your mindset and adapt.
- Make a daily and weekly schedule. Keep track of your work and academic responsibilities. Use traditional and digital calendars, as well as alarms and reminders.
- Break your priority tasks into manageable chunks to avoid being overwhelmed. Focus and finish each task as it comes up on your schedule.
- Communicate your schedule and concerns with your employer, professors, and classmates as needed. Scheduling conflicts and other issues can be avoided by doing so.
- Use the available services and resources. Get student support services, such as academic advising and tutoring. These services complement the online student financial support you’re getting. Both are intended to promote your academic and personal success.
Most importantly, take good care of yourself. The stress from being a working student is part of the college experience. Not only will it pass but it will shape your character.
FAQs About Work-Study Programs for Online Students
What’s the maximum number of hours you can work?
It depends on the work-study job and your financial need. But most jobs are part-time in nature, meaning 10-20 hours per week. You should be able to manage your work and academic commitments responsibly.
How much can you earn from a work-study job?
Again, it depends on your employment. In general, work-study jobs pay the minimum federal wage of $7.25 per hour. But work-study jobs can also offer higher wages.
Are work-study wages taxable?
Yes. Your employer will provide your W-2 form, and you should report your wages on your tax return. Note, however, that work-study wages aren’t part of your Expected Family Contribution.
Will your work-study job affect your academic performance?
Yes, it can if you don’t adopt effective time management habits and self-discipline. No, it won’t if you’ve set SMART goals and become an effective time manager.