The work-study program at Missouri Western State University provides part-time employment to undergraduate and graduate students to help with college expenses.
There are two different kinds of work-study: Federal Work-Study and non-Federal Work-Study.
Enrolled and prospective students may search and apply for available positions here.
Federal Work-Study (FWS)
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a form of financial aid awarded to students who demonstrate financial need and meet federal eligibility requirements. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit all requested documentation (if applicable). As with other federal financial aid programs, you must complete a new FAFSA each year for continued consideration.
If you are eligible, your FWS award will be listed on your financial aid award notification. Because funding is limited, Missouri Western cannot guarantee employment to all eligible students. You must apply for, and be awarded, a position.
Job Positions
The work-study program encourages employment in community service and in fields related to your major of study. Job positions can be either on campus or off campus. Off-campus positions will be at private nonprofit agencies or public agencies and will be in the public interest.
Earnings
Missouri Western student employees are paid on a monthly basis. At the very least, you will earn the current federal minimum wage for the hours you work, but that amount may be higher depending on where you work and the type of work you perform. The amount of money you earn cannot exceed your total FWS award.
Although FWS wages are considered taxable, the money you earn from FWS will not be used to determine your financial need when filing your FAFSA for the following year.
Hours
When assigning work hours, your supervisor will consider your total award and your class schedule. Although Missouri Western student employees may work up to 20 hours per week, the average work schedule is from 10 to 15 hours per week. Student employees are not allowed to work during scheduled class time.
Non-Federal Work-Study (non-FWS)
Non-Federal Work-Study (non-FWS) is not based on financial need. If you do not qualify for Federal Work-Study, you may still be considered for employment opportunities. Working on campus will give you more flexibility than working at an off-campus job because on-campus employers are usually more understanding of your class schedule and school work.
Job Positions
As with FWS, non-FWS encourages students to work in fields related to their major of study.
Earnings
Non-Federal Work-Study is available as funding allows. Your earnings will depend on where you work and the type of work you perform. Your earnings are considered taxable income; and unlike FWS, the money you earn from non-FWS will be used to determine your financial need when filing the FAFSA.
Hours
While you will not have to adhere to a specific award amount for non-FWS, Missouri Western student employees are limited to a 20 hour work week. When assigning hours, your supervisor will consider your class schedule and the needs of the department. Student employees are not allowed to work during scheduled class time.