The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is funded by the federal government. This funding provides employment opportunities for students with financial eligibility, allowing them to earn money to help finance the cost of their education.
FWS Eligibility Requirements
Federal Work-Study is a form of federal financial aid and has certain eligibility requirements. To be eligible for FWS you must:
- Have a completed FAFSA and demonstrate unmet financial need
- Have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
- Are enrolled as Mesa Community College student and are working towards a degree or certificate in an eligible program
- Be enrolled at Mesa Community College in 6 or more applicable credits
- Are a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
- Have a valid Social Security Number
- Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress
Federal Work-Study Is A Real Job
As a prospective work-study candidate, you're embarking on a journey to secure a genuine employment opportunity that not only imparts essential workplace skills but also fosters personal and professional growth. Our program advocates for community engagement, encouraging involvement in service-oriented roles or positions aligned with your academic pursuits. The majority of our placements are conveniently located on campus, with additional off-campus opportunities accessible through initiatives like the American Reads program. Through American Reads, students have the chance to serve as mentors, guiding young learners in reading or math proficiency at nearby elementary schools.
How Federal Work-Study Works
Students work up to 19.5 hours a week and receive a paycheck every two works for the hours they’ve worked. Employers help you arrange your work schedule around your classes, and they’re flexible enough to allow you time off for exams and other school-related duties.
Submit a Federal Work-Study Student Interest Form and financial aid office will determine your eligibility. Being eligible for FWS does not guarantee you a job, and positions are limited. Prepare for interviews, bring an up-to-date resume, and remember to mention any previous experience and/or skills you possess. If you need assistance with your interview skills, writing a resume, or finding a campus job please go to Career Services.
6 Steps to Applying for Federal Work-Study
- Apply for admissions to MCC
- Complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA using the MCC school code (001077), and submit any request documents through your tasks
- Complete the Federal Work-Study Student Interest Form
- Search and apply for available FWS Positions at MCC
- Contact Mesa Community College Career Services for assistance preparing resumes & cover letter or searching FWS jobs
- Interview, and get hired!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Federal Work-Study?
The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need. A FWS job allows you to earn money to help supplement your income while you’re attending school.
What makes me eligible?
To be eligible for FWS you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a valid FAFSA on file with MCC
- All items on your Student Center Task List must be complete
- You must have unmet financial need
- You must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credits that apply toward your degree
- You must be meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress
- You must meet other financial aid eligibility requirements
Can I lose my eligibility throughout the semester?
Yes. There are certain factors that can change your eligibility:
- Falling below 6 credits anytime during the semester will result in the cancellation of your FWS and the loss of your job.
- Failure to meet Satisfactory Academic Progress
- Changes in your financial aid award may also affect your eligibility. This includes adding additional loans and/or receiving scholarship awards.
Who determines my FWS eligibility?
In order to determine your eligibility for FWS you will want to complete the FWS Student Interest form. Once Financial Aid has processed the form you will get an email notification through your school email with an estimated award amount for the year. You will want to show the email with an estimated amount to the hiring supervisor you are wanting to apply for.
How do I find a job on campus?
You can find a job on campus by visiting Career Services located in building 36N at the Southern and Dobson campus. Campus job postings can also be viewed by visiting the Career Services Work Study Jobs webpage.
Does FWS pay my tuition directly?
No. You will receive a regular paycheck from your FWS job. FWS funds from your paycheck cannot be applied directly to your student account.
How do I receive my FWS money?
Your work-study award is paid out as earnings, and is never directly paid to your student account. You will receive a paycheck from the Maricopa Colleges every 2 weeks for the hours you work. The Federal Work-Study amount you see on your financial aid award summary represents the maximum amount you can earn during your FWS program dates.
Can I work more than 19.5 hours a week?
No. The purpose of the program is to help you succeed in your classes, so the amount of hours you are allowed to work is limited to 19.5 hours a week. During breaks, you may work more than 19.5 hours but only if you have sufficient FWS funds and you obtain approval from your supervisor.
How long is my FWS award good for?
Your FWS award is good for one semester at a time and depends on meeting eligibility requirements. Generally, you are awarded for the full academic year (Fall & Spring) if you meet the eligibility requirements for that year. However, it is important for you and/or your supervisor to verify your FWS eligibility with the Financial Aid office throughout the semester, as well as before the start of the following semester to avoid any lapse in FWS funding. You cannot work beyond the last day of the semester.
What happens if I do not earn my entire FWS award?
Students earn their FWS funds by working. If you do not earn the full amount of your FWS award by the end of the semester the Financial Aid office will return any unused funds.
What is unmet financial need?
Unmet financial need is the difference between your Cost of Attendance (COA) and your Student Aid Index (SAI).
What is Cost of Attendance?
The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of your total educational expenses for your enrollment period at MCC. A Cost of Attendance to attend MCC is established for every student that applies for Federal Student Aid and is determined by many factors including, but not limited to, enrollment status, residency status, and living situation.
What is an SAI?
Your Student Aid Index (SAI) is the number calculated from the information provided on your FAFSA. Your SAI is used to determine the amount of federal student aid you are eligible for.
My Maximum Time Frame was recently approved. Does that mean I am automatically eligible for FWS?
No, not necessarily. You must be registered in 6 or more credit hours and the credits must be from classes approved on your Restricted Course List.
Remember: Federal Work-Study is a real job!
Federal work study jobs are in demand and the process of obtaining a FWS job is very competitive. Increase your odds of getting the job you want by being prepared.
- Practice your interview skills
- Update your resume
- Dress professionally
- Be prepared to speak about the skills you possess and any past job experience that may be relevant to the job you want
If you need assistance with interview techniques or writing a resume, please meet with a Career Services Advisor.