Federal Work Study (FWS)

Federal Work Study (FWS) is a form of financial aid awarded to students who demonstrate financial need and meet certain eligibility requirements.

A Federal Work Study award in a student's financial aid package is determined through the annual application for financial aid known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you are eligible, your FWS award will be listed on your Financial Aid Award letter.

  • An employment award is an offer, not a guarantee, of a job.
  • It is NOT a loan, grant or scholarship so it is not credited towards tuition or room & board.
  • Students must obtain employment on their own through an application process.
  • Awards may typically be maximized with approximately 8 to 10 hours of work per week.
  • The award amount is not the maximum amount a student can earn per year, just the maximum amount that can subsidized through FWS funds.
  • It is Ithaca College's policy that while school is in session, students are limited to working a MAXIMUM of 20 hours per week, which includes all Ithaca College student employment.
  • Earnings are distributed to students in the form of biweekly paychecks based on the number of hours worked. It is not credited to the student's tuition account.

Downloadable Resources

file-outline FWS FAQ Flyer - student-employment-fws-flyer.pdf (373.08 KB)

You can download this flyer for more information regarding FWS

Frequently Asked Questions

If you know you have Federal Work Study, or if you're unsure and want clarity on what FWS is and how it does or does not effect your student employment experience at IC, read below to learn more.
Proof of Work Study

Request For Proof of Work Study If you currently hold a position on campus and need a letter to verify that your on campus employment is being subsidized by FWS funding please complete this Work Study Request Form.

Read more about FWS from Student Financial Services (SFS)

Student Financial Services (SFS) handle all the details regarding your financial aid package including your federal work study allocation. Any changes you need to make or specific questions you have should be directed to them.