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Work-Study Frequently Asked Questions

This page contains answers to common work study questions, along with some tips we have found useful and presented here as questions.

What is Work Study ?

  • Park University sponsors two types of Student Employment programs.  They are Institutional Work Study (IWSP) and Federal College Work Study (CWSP). 
  • Work Study jobs complement your educational program or career goals while gaining relevant work experience in a business setting.
  • Student earnings can help with educational expenses and financial obligations.

How do I apply for Work Study ?

  • Work Study is a campus-based program co-administered with the Financial Aid Office.  To apply for Work Study, you need to:
  1. File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). (Using Park University School Code 002498)
  2. Indicate interest in Work Study on FAFSA question 31 (2010-2011).
  3. Indicate that you are interested in Work Study on your Request for Financial Aid form issued by Park University Student Financial Services.

How do I find a job ?

  • After notification of eligibility from Financial Aid and acceptance of the work study award on the award letter, students may search the Student Job Search database on the Student Employment - Student Center page of the Park University website.
  • Acceptance of the work study award does not guarantee placement.  

Can I Study on the Job ?

  • The name work study can be misleading.  Work study positions are an important part of the daily functions of Park University and its community service partners. Work study jobs are not any different than any other job, with required tasks to be completed. The individual employers will establish the duties and tasks required.  
  • It is important that each job be treated as a "real job", where the student is expected to work in exchange for wages.

What is a Community Service Work Study Job ?

  • Seven percent of the Federal Work Study budget is allocated to Community Service positions.  
  • Community Service is defined as services which are identified by an institution of higher education, through formal or informal consultation with local nonprofit, governmental, and community based organizations. 
  • This service is designed to improve the quality of life for community residents, particularly low income individuals, or to solve particular problems related to their needs.  
  • An emphasis is placed on direct services.  Most positions are located off campus and require transportation.  
  • Fields which could qualify as community service include health care, education, welfare, social services,  public safety, recreation, rural development, and community improvement.

Can I Work More Than One Work Study Job ?

  • Yes, in some cases dual assignments are granted and are approved by the Work Study Coordinator.

Is it Possible to Get Additional Work Study Money?

  • Requests for additional funds are reviewed by the Financial Aid Office and are approved based on employer needs, availability of funds, and the student's financial aid eligibility.

How Will I be Paid ?

  • Once the timesheets are submitted and processed, paychecks are issued on the 10th of each month.  Checks are available in the Student Assistance Center at the cashier's window.

Do all Work Study Positions Pay the Same ?

  • No.  Individual departments, with guidelines from Student Employment, will determine the hourly rate based on knowledge required, experience and skills.  
  • Work study award amounts have no bearing on the hourly rate.  
  • Issues regarding pay rates, increases or number of hours per week should be discussed with your supervisor.

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