What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work-Study is a financial aid program that provides eligible students with part-time employment opportunities while they attend college. Instead of receiving funds through a loan, students earn money through hours worked, helping them pay for educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience. These opportunities can also help students develop professional skills that support future career success.
Flexible Work-Study Jobs that Fit You
Federal Work-Study offers eligible students flexible job opportunities that fit around their class schedules while helping them earn money for college. Eligibility is determined through the FAFSA, making it important for students to apply early and explore their options. These positions are designed to support students’ financial needs while helping them gain valuable professional experience and career-ready skills.
Key Federal Work-Study Details
To be eligible for Federal Work-Study (FWS) at CSUSB, students must meet the following requirements:
- Complete the FAFSA for the current academic year.
- Demonstrate financial need, including a federal need of at least $2,000.
- Be enrolled at least half-time:
- Undergraduate students: 6 units or more
- Graduate students: 3 units or more
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
- Submit all requested financial aid documents by the deadlines listed in your To-Do List.
- Receive an official Federal Work-Study award from the CSUSB Financial Aid Office.
- Be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or permanent resident.
CSUSB offers a variety of Federal Work-Study (FWS) positions that help students earn income while gaining professional experience related to their interests, career goals and academic programs.
Common types of work-study positions include:
- Administrative and Office Support – assisting departments with front desk operations, customer service, filing, data entry and office projects.
- Academic and Research Support – working as research assistants, instructional student assistants, lab assistants or supporting faculty-led projects.
- Peer Support and Student Services – serving as peer mentors, student success coaches, health educators or supporting programs that help fellow students succeed.
- Technology and Digital Services – assisting with IT support, chatbot evaluation, digital communications, social media and technology-related projects.
- Library and Learning Resources – supporting library operations, tutoring programs and academic resource centers.
- Community Service and Off-Campus Nonprofit Positions – working with approved nonprofit agencies and community organizations while gaining experience serving the local community.
Federal Work-Study is a need-based program that allows eligible students to earn money through part-time on-campus or off-campus employment while gaining valuable professional experience. Funding is limited, so submitting your FAFSA early can improve your chances of receiving an award.
Students who are not initially awarded Work-Study may request to be placed on the FWS Waiting List by contacting workstudy@csusb.edu, though placement does not guarantee funding.
Career-Ready Confidence
“CSUSB gave me the opportunity. They taught me what I need to know. My confidence went from very low and very shy to now I will go to events by myself. I love the opportunity to go out and meet new people. I'm glad CSUSB taught me how to be confident.”
Jennifer Cornejo
MPA student and graduate assistant
Look for Federal Work-Study Opportunities
Students can explore work-study opportunities through campus job boards, the CSUSB Career Center and approved community partners. Because many positions are limited and may fill quickly, students are encouraged to check listings regularly and apply early. Exploring different opportunities can also help students find roles that align with their academic interests and career goals.
Find On-Campus Work-Study Jobs
Explore Off-Campus Work-Study Jobs
Many off-campus Federal Work-Study opportunities focus on tutoring and academic support, allowing students to make a difference in their communities while gaining valuable professional experience. Through partnerships with local schools and community organizations, students can develop leadership, communication and teaching skills while exploring careers in education and related fields.
Students who meet Federal Work-Study eligibility requirements may apply for off-campus tutoring positions by completing a supplemental Instructional Student Assistant (ISA) application.
FAQs for Federal Work-Study
Once you receive a Federal Work-Study award as part of your financial aid package, you can begin searching for available positions. Work-study opportunities are posted through CSUSB's student employment system, where you can view openings, submit applications and connect with hiring departments.
Most Federal Work-Study students work between 10–20 hours per week, depending on their award amount, class schedule and department needs. Your supervisor will work with you to create a schedule that supports your academic success while allowing you to earn your awarded funds.
There are still employment opportunities available. CSUSB offers non-work-study student assistant positions across campus, and many departments hire students regardless of financial aid eligibility. Students can view non work-study opportunities posted through CSUSB’s student employment system.
Work-Study is earned through employment. You are paid for the hours you work rather than receiving the full award as a financial aid payment.
