Federal Work Study (FWS)
Federal Work Study (FWS) is a program that provides part-time jobs to eligible students through on or off campus opportunities. Students must have FWS listed on their aid offers in PAWS to participate in this program.
FWS is a need based part-time work program which allows students to earn money to help pay educational expenses. Students must indicate on their FAFSA that they are interested in FWS in order to be considered. FWS student employees will be paid twice per month and are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.
The amount shown on the student's aid offers in PAWS is the maximum amount available to earn while participating in the FWS program. FWS will not be available at registration for the payment of fees.
FWS: Frequently Asked Questions
▼ I have been offered FWS. How much FWS do I have?
The amount you are authorized to earn is listed on your Award Notification in PAWS.
You may work and earn up to the total FWS amount listed for each term, and may not
exceed that amount.
▼ What is the rate of pay?
$8.25 per hour for on-campus FWS; $9.50 per hour for off-campus FWS.
▼ How do I get the money?
Students are paid bi-weekly for actual hours worked. Payday is every other Friday.
Time sheets must be signed by the student and supervisor, and they must be submitted
to Payroll by the Friday before payday.
▼ How do I find a job?
Available jobs are listed in Handshake. Select a job, note the supervisor and location, then contact the supervisor to request
an interview.
▼ Where are the jobs located?
Jobs are located on the USA campus, in Mobile County public elementary schools or
with various community service partners. The job listing will indicate the location.
▼ Can I have more than one job on campus or through FWS?
Yes, you may have a Work-Study job as well as a Student Assistant job.