Questions and Answers
What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal Work Study (FWS) is a program which provides
part-time employment opportunities to eligible students to help
meet the costs of post secondary education. Based on the results
of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA),
eligible students are awarded an allotment which may be earned
through part time employment in FWS approved positions either on
or off campus. The program is designed to provide students with
an opportunity for employment arranged around class schedules.
Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credit hours per
semester) to be eligible for this program. If you wish to be
considered for this program, you should complete a Work-Study
Student Employment Application located at
http://www.brcc.edu/financial_aid/work_study/forms.htm.
How do I apply for FWS?
Federal Work Study eligibility is based on demonstrated
financial need. To be considered for a Federal Work Study award
at Blue Ridge Community College, you should complete the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid. Since work study funds are
limited, you should file the FAFSA as early as possible. If you
are not awarded Federal Work Study as part of your initial award
package, you should make your desire for FWS known to the
Financial Aid Office.
If I receive a work-study award, am I guaranteed employment?
No, it is your responsibility to find and apply for
Work-Study positions. Available positions can be reviewed at
http://www.brcc.edu/financial_aid/work_study/jobs.htm.
Please contact the Financial Aid Office if you need
any assistance.
How many hours can I work?
Most work-study awards will enable the student to work on an
average of 15-20 hours per week. However, once you have been
awarded FWS, the Financial Aid Office will notify you of the
average number of hours you are able to work.
What is the pay rate for Work-Study positions?
On-campus positions pay $8 per hour. Community Service
positions that are positioned off-campus pay $11 per hour.
What happens if I earn my entire Work-Study award before the
end of an academic period?
You cannot exceed your award amount. Once you have reached
your maximum award, you must stop working as a Work-Study
student.
Will my FWS award count as a credit against the charges on
my bill?
No. Because the work study award represents money to be
earned, it is not considered a credit against pending charges
and will not show as a credit on your bill.
Should I notify the Office of Student Financial Aid if I
decide to decline my FWS award?
Yes! If you have been awarded work-study and you decide not
to participate in the program please notify the Financial Aid
Office in writing so that the funding can be given to someone
who wishes to participate.
Are Federal Work Study wages considered taxable income?
Yes. Federal Work Study wages are taxable income. If taxes
were withheld from your paycheck, you probably are eligible for
a refund depending of course on your total annual earnings. It
is in your best interest that you file a federal tax return with
the IRS by April 15th. You will receive W-2 forms from
BRCC for
your work study earnings.
How are Federal Work Study wages considered when I apply for
financial aid the following year?
Federal Work Study wages are excluded from consideration in
the determination of your expected family contribution. The
exclusion is effected by including the gross amount of your FWS
wages on Worksheet C of the FAFSA. Your FWS wages are reported
as part of your AGI and income from work on the FAFSA. |
