Work-Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS)
FWS is a need-based financial aid program designed to assist students with employment opportunities on campus or within the community. Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours to maintain their eligibility for this program. This is a regular paid position in which a student will receive a bi-monthly paycheck. The FWS earnings are taxable; however, are excluded in the need calculation on the FAFSA.
Colorado Work-Study (CWS)
CWS is a financial aid program designed to assist students with employment opportunities on campus. CWS may be awarded to students who have indicated an interest in work-study on the FAFSA. These are limited funds that may be awarded to Colorado residents only. Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours to be eligible. This is a regular paid position in which a student will receive a bi-monthly paycheck. The CWS earnings are taxable; however, are excluded in the need calculation on the FAFSA.
For both Work-Study programs:
- Students cannot begin work until all personnel paperwork has been completed
- Students cannot work more than 20 hours a week
- Students must remain enrolled in 6 credits during the time that they are employed through work-study
- Students must submit accurate time sheets on a regular and timely basis
- Student cannot exceed work-study award
- To be eligible for a work-study award, you must complete a FAFSA application, be eligible to receive financial aid, and be enrolled in 6 or more credit hours
Steps to utilize your work-study
Step 1: Have a Work-Study Award. Work-study funds are limited, so not everyone who wants work-study will receive it. It is important to complete your FAFSA by the prioirty consideration date of April 1st each year. You must indicate on your FAFSA that you are interested in receiving work-study in order to receive a work-study offer. Please contact the Financial Aid Office if you have not been offered a work-study award but are interested in working. Only students who have been awarded work-study should proceed through the following steps.
Step 2: Find a Position. Instructions on applying will be within the job description of each position. Position announcements will be posted on the Student Finance tab in eWOLF, under the Work-Study Employment Opportunities Channel.
Step 3: Apply for a Position and Interview. Contact the individual listed on the announcement to arrange an interview. If you have not obtained a work-study position by the end of the second week of the term, your work-study award may be cancelled, as funds are limited.
Step 4: Complete the Online Work-Study Orientation. After you have found a position, review the online work-study orientation on the Student Finance tab in eWOLF, under the Work-Study Employment Opportunities Channel. Students are required to review the work-study orientation each academic year as some important information may change. In addition, you will need to review the Student Work-Study Handbook for important information regarding employment. All orientation materials are available on the Student Finance tab on eWOLF, under the Work-Study Employment Opportunities Channel.
Step 5: Submit the Completed Work-Study Contract. Your Supervisor will submit your Work-Study Contract to the Financial Aid Office and you will be contacted about when to attend an Employment Session if you are new to the Work-Study Program. Please print off all of the New Hire Packet for Work-Study Employees and have it completed before you attend the Work-Study Employment Session. The New Hire Packet is available on the Student Finance Tab in eWOLF, under the Work-Study Employment Opportunities Channel.
Step 6: Attend a Work-Study Employment Session. New FRCC student employees are required to attend an employment session to submit their new hire paperwork with Human Resources. State employee policy states that you must pass a background check to be eligible to work at Front Range Community College.
Step 7: Begin Work. Your supervisor will contact you with your start date once you are approved to work.