Types of Financial Aid

Federal Work-Study Program

The Federal Work-Study Program (FWS) provides employment opportunities on and near Wake Tech’s campuses for eligible students. The pay rate is usually $12 to $15 per hour. Students cannot work more than 20 hours per week.

For a student to be considered for FWS, he or she must meet the following criteria:

Any student interested in applying for an FWS position needs to complete an interest form. Completing the form does not guarantee an FWS position, however, as the number of positions is limited and based on available funding.

Student interest form
Current job opportunities
Employer interest form

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply?

All students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The applicant must be:

  • Admitted to a financial aid-eligible degree, diploma or certificate program
  • Enrolled in at least six credit hours each semester
  • Earn and maintain a GPA of at least 2.0
  • Meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress guidelines for federal student aid
  • Complete the online Work-Study interest form application by the specified deadline

How do I find a job/position?

  • Interested students will complete the Work-Study interest form.
  • The Financial Aid Office will review student eligibility.
  • If a student is eligible, he or she will receive an email from the Financial Aid Office to complete an application. If a student is not eligible, he or she will be notified.
  • The student submits an application.
  • Supervisors review applications and will interview students.
  • Supervisors will email the Financial Aid Office, notifying them of their choice.
  • The Student will receive an email with further instructions to complete the process.

How will I be paid?

The financial aid offer lists the maximum amount you are allowed to earn in your Work-Study position. You cannot earn more than the offer amount during an academic year.

Most students can earn their offer amount by working 10 to 15 hours per week if they begin working in August. The maximum allotted hours generally are 20 hours per week. If there is an additional need and Wake Tech has additional funds, a student may request an increase in his or her Work-Study offer.

If a student receives a new scholarship or grant, the Work-Study offer may have to be reduced or canceled. If a student requests student loans after an offer amount has been determined, Work-Study participation can be reduced or canceled.

Students are paid on the 15th of each month. All time sheets are submitted via WebAdvisor on the last day of the month by 12 p.m., unless otherwise requested by the Work-Study coordinator. All time should be accurate and reviewed by the supervisor.

NOTE: If a time sheet is not received on time, a student's direct deposit will be delayed until the following month.

Can I study while on the job?

Even though this is called work-study, it does not mean you can study on your job. Work-study jobs are not any different from other jobs. It is a real job, and you should treat it that way.

What are the rules and regulations?

Confidentiality – All students will need to sign an Information Security Agreement. Any breach of confidentiality or attempt to alter documents in any way will result in dismissal from the Work-Study program. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 is a federal law that institutions enforce and abide by to maintain the confidentiality of student records. Student workers should direct inquiries regarding another student's information to the supervisor.

Changing jobs – Students are encouraged to remain in the same position for the entire academic year. Periods of short employment may not look favorable to future employers. Work-Study is an opportunity to establish a good work record for your resume and obtain future letters of reference. If you are experiencing problems in your work area, you are encouraged to discuss concerns with your supervisor. If conflicts cannot be resolved, please contact the Work-study coordinator. If you decide to quit your job, you should submit a written letter of resignation with your final date to your supervisor at least two weeks in advance.

Terminations/job release – A Termination/Job Release form will be filled out by your supervisor specifying the reason for dismissal, should you be terminated.

What is expected of me?

Absences – It is your responsibility to plan your personal and study schedules in a manner as not to conflict with your regular working hours. One-day advance notice is required if you must be out for any reason other than illness. Work schedules, once established, will not be modified unless permanent changes are necessary due to circumstances beyond the student's control.

Office etiquette – Some of the jobs on campus will require student employees to answer the telephones; therefore, Work-Study students should be professional and courteous when assisting others. Staff telephones are not available for use by students for personal calls. Cellphone use is not permitted during working hours.

Dress and appearance – Students have the freedom of choice in dress for class; however, students should come to an agreement with their supervisors on appropriate attire during working hours.

Punctuality – All students should arrive on time and be prepared for work.

Work evaluation – All students will receive at least two evaluations during their time as a student employee. All evaluations will be forwarded to the Financial Aid Office and kept in the student's file.