Missouri State University

Frequently Asked Questions

FEDERAL WORK STUDY

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 
What is work study?
     Work study is a form of financial aid, just like a Pell Grant.  It is designed to help the student work and earn money while attending college.  A work study award does not automatically go toward tuition, it is paid directly to the student in the form of a paycheck, just like any other job.  The student determines how to use the money.  A work study student can work on or off campus.  Several on-campus jobs allow the student too work before, between, and after class to achieve the desired weekly hours.
 

Is there a limit to how many hours you can work as a work study student?
     The student's hours are limited by the amount of the work study award and cannot exceed 1,000 hours a year.   Missouri State would like to remind students that academics should be the priority and any hours worked should not interfere with the student's studies.
How do I know if I am eligible for work study?  My award letter did not say anything about it.     Even if the award letter from Financial Aid does not specifically mention work study, a student can still be eligible.  The following determine eligibility:
 
  • A FAFSA must have been filed, so we can look at the student's financial need.  There must be remaining need.
  • The student must be enrolled for at least six (6) credit hours per semester.
  • The student must maintain a 2.0 GPA.
  • Work study funds are available.
  • International students are not usually eligible for work study.
 

If I accept work study, won't it affect the amount of financial aid I am eligible for next year?
    No.  The student must claim the income received from the work study position just like any other job when filing income taxes.  However, on the FAFSA application, the work study income is deducted from other income because it is a need-based work program.

 

If I decide I want a work study job, where do I start?
    Student Employment Services has converted its Work Study job placement process to an online system. With this new system, students receive increased viewing privileges of Work Study positions and they are able to view and apply to jobs online. To search for a job follow the following steps:

1. Go to www.missouristate.edu/findajob

2. Click “Find a Job (For Students).”

3. Click on the gray student employment box

4. IF you find a job you are interested in click on the job and click apply to this job

5. IF this is your first time applying on this system you must create a new account.

6. Create an account and then apply to jobs. The online system keeps your information so you can apply to other jobs without having to complete the basic information again. 

7. When a position is accepted, you must complete your hiring paperwork with your supervisor. They will submit a work study clearance form for you online. 
If I was awarded work study but do not wish to use it at the beginning of the year does that mean I will lose it?
     No.  All you need to do is notify the financial aid tech for Work Study that you wish to use your award at a later time.  Work study jobs can be started at any time during the school year, as there are always departments on campus who need student workers. 

 

If you would like additional information about the work study program, please contact me.

Mary Barb, Staff Emeritus

Student Employment Services, Blair-Shannon 113
836-4718
Email:  WorkStudy@missouristate.edu