What is State Work Study?
The State Work Study program helps students with financial need to earn money for college while gaining work experience in jobs related to their academic and career goals. Students at PLU are hired by off campus employers who are then reimbursed 65% of the student wages by the state work study program funds.
Who is eligible?
In order to obtain State Work Study you must:
- Have state OR federal work study as part of your aid package. Juniors and seniors are awarded state work study in their initial award packaged. Freshmen and sophomores, however, are awarded federal work study, but may have it converted to state work study if an eligible position is available with an appropriate off campus employer.
- Be enrolled at least part-time and maintain satisfactory progress
- Work a maximum of 19 hours per week when classes are in session and 40 hours per week during vacation periods
- Work with your employer to track your earnings so that they do not exceed the amount you have been awarded.
How do you apply?
To be considered for Work Study you must first submit a FAFSA form (remember to include PLU's school code 003785). Upon receiving your FAFSA information from the federal government, PLU will compile an award letter. If you are awarded Work Study then complete the following:
- Find a job that interests you within the State Work Study listing. Job Listing Now Available.
- Obtain a Referral from the Office of Student Employment that indicates your award eligibility amount and authorizes you to work at a State Work Study Job
- Apply for the job! Counselors at Student Employment and Career Development will work with you if you have questions about applications, cover letters, and resumes
- Bring your referral with you to the State Work Study employer and ask them to fill out the appropriate information
- Return the Referral to the Financial Aid Office in the Administration Building. This will complete the processing of your application, including adjusting award amounts to fit with your employer's request, if necessary
- Make sure you and your employer return your State Work Study Time sheet at the end of every month and that all the information is current and accurate. Return time sheets to the Financial Aid Office.
- Continue to work with your employer to track your earnings so that they do not exceed the amount you have been awarded.
How much will you make?
Most jobs will pay between minimum wage (adjusted each January) and $10 per hour. However this is also contingent upon the amount of your award. Awards are based on the availability of funds and your determined financial need. While awards vary, students generally earn between $2,000 and $5,000 per year. Students work up to 19 hours per week while in school and up to 40 hours during school breaks.
