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2023-2024 University Catalog
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Federal Work Study at UNF

Federal Work Study (FWS) is a need-based federally-funded part-time employment program which allows eligible students to earn money to help pay for education expenses. Undergraduate, graduate, post baccalaureate and doctoral students are eligible to participate in Federal Work Study at UNF. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to be considered for federal financial aid, including FWS. You may email fws@unf.edu from your secure UNF email account and ask to be evaluated for the fall and/or spring terms. FWS funding is not available during the summer term. 

Federal Work Study awarding starts after the end of the add/drop period each term. If you do not see a FWS award as part of your financial aid package on your myWings, email fws@unf.edu to be considered for these funds.

Obtaining a Work-Study Job

Once you have received your FWS Email of Eligibility, you may search available job postings using position type "Federal Work Study." Departments will arrange interviews and, if hired, the supervisor will work with Human Resources and the Office of Student Financial Aid so you may begin working. If you have difficulty finding a work study position, please email fws@unf.edu for assistance.

Students are limited to 20 hours per week and 40 hours per pay period. FWS cannot pay for any hours worked beyond these approved limits. Additionally, you may only earn up to your posted FWS award for the term.

Please note: FWS funds are not available to pend or pay a student's tuition, fees, housing or meal membership charges directly. Federal Work Study students are paid according to the UNF bi-weekly payroll schedule based on the hours worked during the pay period.

FICA Exemption

Federal Work-Study employees are eligible for the FICA exemption. Student employees who qualify for this exemption will not have Social Security or Medicare taxes deducted from their paychecks. Federal Income Tax withholding will still be deducted from a Federal Work Study employee's paycheck.