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Work-Study Students

Welcome to Northwestern's Federal Work-Study Program! In addition to program-specific content on the following web pages, general student employment information is available on Northwestern's Student Employment website. 

Did you know?

There are many benefits and advantages to being paid FWS wages including, 

  • FWS is NOT a loan and does NOT have to be repaid! Unlike loans where money is provided up front, with FWS you must work to earn the money and never have to return or pay back any money.
  • FWS is not mandatory or binding. You choose when or if you want to start working. You may also leave if necessary but it is encouraged to do so on good terms and with enough notice. 
  • Unlike regular wages, FWS income won't impact your financial aid offered in subsequent years.
  • You may work as much or as little as you need. There are no consequences if you do not earn the full FWS amount listed in CAESAR.
  • FWS jobs have a low time commitment, ensuring you have enough time to study, socialize, and take care of your overall well-being. Most students work 6-10 hours per week.
  • FWS employers are flexible and work around your class schedule and other academic commitments. They know your education comes first and will not jeopardize that!
  • FWS students are paid a fair hourly wage according to the complexity and responsibilities of the job, not based on the total FWS offered in your financial aid notice. 
  • Sometimes FWS earnings limits can be increased! See the Earnings Limit Appeals section for additional information. 
  • You choose how to spend (or save!) your earned money. Your wages are paid directly to you and can be used for education or personal expenses.
  • FICA (Medicare and Social Security) taxes are NOT withheld from your paycheck. 
  • FWS will not affect any potential financial aid refund on your student account. 
  • FWS wages are paid for hours worked according to the University's bi-weekly University Payroll schedules.
  • FWS is a win-win for students and departments.  At Northwestern, the government subsidizes 75% of the student’s hourly wage while the employer pays the other 25%. Therefore, departments are able to hire more students than they might otherwise!