Office of Financial Aid

Office of Financial Aid

Teachers College, Columbia University

Teachers College, Columbia University

FAQ's » Federal Work-Study

Q: What is Federal Work-Study?
A: Federal Work-Study provides jobs for graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education-related expenses. Your federal Work-Study wages will be at least the current federal minimum wage, but it may be higher, depending on the type of work you do and the skills required. Your total Federal Work-Study award depends on when you apply, your level of need, and the funding level provided to Teachers College.  

 

Q: Can I work as many hours as I want?
A: No. The amount you earn can't exceed your total Federal Work-Study award. Your class schedule and your academic progress will be considered in making this determination. Students cannot work more than 20 hours per week when classes are in session. 

 

Q: My FAFSA said I was only eligible for unsubsidized loans. Can I get federal work-study added to my financial aid package?

A: No, federal work-study is a subsidized program so you would not be eligible to participate. 

 

Q: I found a work-study job at Columbia's Journalism school: can I use my Teachers College (TC) work-study allotment to accept the job?

A: In most cases, you cannot use your TC financial aid at any other division or affiliate of Columbia. There are a small number of community service programs that are the exception to this rule: students with federal work-study offers from community service agencies should speak with the Director of Financial Aid. 

 

Q: I was not awarded work-study this year even though my FAFSA said I was eligible. Why?

A: Even though the FAFSA indicates student eligibility for the program, the college does not have an unlimited amount of funding. If TC has run out of funding, then you can contact Financial Aid to ask to be placed on a waiting list for federal work-study awards. If more funds become available during the academic year, then students on the waiting list will be awarded federal work-study (provided the FAFSA deems them eligible). 

 

Q: I declined my federal work-study award six months ago, but now I have changed my mind. What can I do to try and get my award back?

A: You can request that your name be added to the waiting list for federal work-study.  

 

Q: I accepted my federal work-study award, but I had to drop a class and now I am only registered for five points. Can I keep my work-study?

A: Unfortunately you will lose your federal work-study. You must maintain a minimum registration of six points.

 Q: Where do I hand in my hire forms?
A: The Federal Work-Study Employment Agreement Form is handed in to Financial Aid. All other hiring forms are handed in to Human Resources. 

 

Q: I gave in an Employment Agreement Form to Financial Aid, but it was sent back to my department. Why?
A: Incomplete forms, forms missing required signatures, or forms that are not dated within the federal fiscal year, are sent back to the department with a memo requesting that the form be completed in full and/or with correct dates.