Financial Aid

Work-Study

Federal Work-Study (FWS)

FWS is a need-based program of financial aid and is administered through the Office of Financial Aid. The federal government subsidizes earnings for hours worked in special student employment positions Students who demonstrate financial need may work to earn an FWS award intended to assist them in defraying educational and living expenses. Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours to maintain their eligibility for this program. FWS earnings also carry the benefit of being excluded in a student’s future year need calculation on the FAFSA.

Colorado Work-Study (CWS)

CWS may be awarded to students who have indicated an interest in student employment. These are limited funds that are awarded to Colorado residents. Students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours to be eligible.

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 while classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters.
• Students can work up to 25 hours a week during breaks (such as spring break or between semesters).
• Students must remain enrolled in 6 credits during the time that they are employed through work-study.
• Students must submit accurate timesheets on a regular and timely basis.
• Unless additional work-study funds are awarded, students must be converted to student hourly employees once a student’s work-study allotted award is expended.
• 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 use 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 early. 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.

Step 3: Apply for a Position and Interview. Contact the individual listed on the announcement to arrange an interview. If after four weeks you have not been hired, your work-study award may be canceled.

Step 4: Complete the Online Work-Study Orientation. After you have found a position, review the online a work-study orientation. Students are required to review the work-study orientation each academic year. In addition it is recommended that students review the materials available in the Student Work Study Handbook. Orientation Materials can be found on your financial aid award page accessible through eWolf.

 Step 5: Submit Contract and Confirmation Page to Financial Aid. Submit your Work-Study Contract (provided by your supervisor) and Work-Study Orientation Confirmation page (available through your financial aid award page) to the Financial Aid Office and sign up to attend a Work-Study Employment Session if you are new to the Work-Study Program.

Step 6: Attend Work-Study Employment Session. New FRCC student employees are required to attend an employment session to complete their payroll documentation and to complete Human Resources paperwork. 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 after he/she has received final approval. Once approved, you will be able to begin working according to the schedule arranged with your supervisor.