At this time, we do not have further information regarding the pause of federal grant and loan disbursements and any possible effects on Federal Student Aid, such as Pell Grant, Direct Loan, and Federal Work-Study programs. Learn more.

What’s Work-Study?

The Work-Study program is a need-based financial aid program funded by the federal government and Iowa State University. It is awarded to students based on need demonstrated on the FAFSA. Unlike grants and scholarships, Work-Study awards are earned and paid through the payroll process in the form of bi-monthly pay. Work-Study awards and amounts are subject to eligibility requirements and funding availability.

How it works

  • Work-Study subsidizes eligible student jobs with federal and institutional funds. The employing departments pay 40% of the wages a Work-Study employee earns while Work-Study pays the remaining 60%.
  • Both the student and the employer benefit – the department pays only a portion of the earned wages and students can credit their Work-Study earnings as financial aid to reduce their
    student contribution on future FAFSAs. Work-Study students are sometimes considered more preferentially.
  • If you are an on-campus employer, please review information on hiring a work study student.

How do I get Work-Study?

  • Student eligibility is set by the FAFSA. Students should file by Iowa State’s priority deadline and should select “yes” when asked about Work-Study on the FAFSA.
  • If awarded, students will be notified in their financial aid offer letter.
  • If you were not awarded Work-Study, you may still be eligible. Contact the Student Employment Center to determine if you could be eligible.
    • Student Employment Center Room 0640 Beardshear Hall Ames, IA 50011
      Telephone: (515) 294-JOBS [5627]
      Email: studentjobs@iastate.edu
      Normal Hours: 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday
      Summer Hours: 7:30am – 4pm Monday – Friday

Other Work-Study Programs

For work-study employer resources, check here.