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The Benefits of A Work-Study Job

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Life West offers both Federal Work-Study (FWS) and Institutional Work-Study (IWS) programs. The FWS is a WORK program jointly funded by the federal government and Life West. To be eligible, a student must demonstrate financial need according to federal guidelines and not be currently taking out the full amount of a private loan. The Financial Aid Office determines a student’s eligibility for FWS.

The IWS is a work program funded by Life West on a limited basis.

Do you know what the average student loan debt is for a Life West graduate (including undergraduate loans)? Try $130,000!

This includes both subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans, and all private loans. When you enter repayment, your estimated monthly payments are between $1000 and $1500-- and that’s just on the Stafford loans.

Is there some way to change this?

Yes, did you know that you can earn up to $11, 440 by getting a work-study job?

This is how it works:

A student who is able to work a minimum of 10 hours a week at a rate of $8 an hour can earn $9,680 regular schedule $11, 440 extended schedule.

Rather borrow?

If you were to borrow this amount versus working for the money, you would pay back $3 for every $1 you borrowed. Earnings of $9,680 would become a loan balance of $29,040 and earnings of $11,440 would become a whopping $34,320.

Where do I get information on jobs?

Job listings are posted on the bulletin boards outside the Financial Aid Office. A variety of positions are available with hourly wages ranging from $8 to $14. To apply for a position please see Jackie Biron or Sue Wagner in Student Services.

Where do students work?

The federal and institutional work-study programs offer jobs on and off campus. A variety of positions are available in administrative/ support services, labs, and clinic. In addition, the federal work-study program offers positions in tutoring elementary school students.

Will a job work around my schedule?

Most definitely a work-study job exists to provide a student with more income. Therefore, it is to your benefit to work as much as you can. Most departments are flexible and sensitive to student’s need, but expect the same thing in return from their employees.

How and when are students paid?

Students are paid twice a month on the 15th and last day of the month. Checks are available for pick up at the Payroll Office.

So, how much of your future are you willing to sacrifice now?

We know classes are tough and times are tight but for 10 hours a week you can greatly reduce your student loan debt and monthly payments in the future.