General Work Study Information

First and foremost, remember that Federal Work Study (FWS) is a real job. You are expected to behave professionally and in compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by the program and by your employer. Failure to act responsibly or professionally could result in termination from your position.

Cancelling Award 
If you choose not to use your Federal Work Study award, please decline it in your myWings account or contact One Stop Student Services to have it cancelled. We will not automatically package other aid to replace refused Work-Study.
 
Tuition 
Federal Work Study is NOT applied to tuition, and we will not defer tuition against work-study. You will receive a bi-weekly paycheck on UNF paydays for the amount that you have worked for that pay period, not to exceed 20 hours per week and 40 hours per pay period.
 
Direct Deposit 
Direct Deposit is now required for all work study earnings. You must complete direct deposit paperwork with Human Resources or the Cashier’s office.
 
Taxes 
Federal Work Study money is TAXABLE INCOME. You will receive a W-2 Form in January to file your taxes. Please check with your employer in January.
 
FAFSA 

You should show Federal Work Study earnings on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), included in your taxable income if you file a tax return, or in your earnings if you are not required to file. You will then need to report the Federal Work study earnings for the appropriate tax year on the FAFSA - this will exclude your earnings from the calculation for Expected Family Contribution.
 
Work Hours 
Work hours are arranged between you and your employer. Generally it takes 10-12 hours a week to earn your award amount for a semester. You should not work over your award amount, which is your Federal Work-Study earnings limit. Work hours CANNOT interfere with your class hours.
 
Funds Transfer 
You cannot transfer unearned money from one semester to another. Fall and Spring awards are separate.
 
Monitor Earnings 
Monitor your earnings so that you will not over earn your Federal Work Study award for the semester. Your employer will receive a tracking form to monitor your earnings and remaining hours. Work with your employer to ensure that you do not work beyond your approved earnings each semester.
 
Timesheet 
Check with your supervisor on timesheet requirements. Students employed on campus will generally submit an electronic time sheet every two weeks.
 
Studying 
Don't be mislead by the name -- Federal Work Study -- your job is not a place to study or socialize -- you are expected to work.
 
Class Schedule 
Do not work during your scheduled class time. You will be required to submit a class schedule to your supervisor to verify your course schedule.
 
Calling In 
Call your employer if you are unable to come to work or will be late. You will need to make arrangements with your supervisor if you wish to make up missed hours.
 
Terminating 
If you stop working, notify your employing department and One Stop Student Services immediately.
 
Dress Code 
Ask your employer about their dress code. For some positions certain standards of dress may be required. Dressing appropriately can help you with future job references.
 
Pride 
Take pride in your job and follow departmental rules. Every position contributes to the overall operation of the organization.
 
Co-Workers 
If you have a concern about a work issue or you are having trouble with another employee, talk with your supervisor and let them help you.