Federal Work Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federally funded program that provides employment opportunities to students with the highest financial need. Work experience is not required to secure an FWS position.
Students receive their FWS award by working part-time up to 20 hours per week during the Fall and Spring semesters. The amount a student may earn will be listed on the student's award letter and at MyCSULB. The average FWS award is $2500 per academic year. Students must be enrolled at least half-time to receive this award.
Acceptance of a FWS award does not guarantee placement in an actual position. Since placement is limited and cannot be guaranteed, students are encouraged to attend our annual FWS Job Fair to maximize the opportunity to find a FWS position. During the annual FWS Job Fair, many departments on campus look forward to hiring FWS students for a variety of positions including clerical assistants, computer lab technicians, groundskeepers and tutors. The Job Fair is held in August shortly before classes begin. FWS students who are unable to attend the Job Fair can find information about open positions in the Office of Financial Aid after the semester begins.
Paychecks are issued monthly, and hourly rates range from $7.50 to $16.17 an hour depending upon a student's knowledge and experience. FWS wages are subject to state and federal taxes, and the Payroll Office can assist in completing the necessary tax documents.
Students may also work in the community with the America Reads/America Counts Program affiliated with the College of Education’s SERVE program and the Center for Minority Language Education and Research.