Federal Work-Study Basics and FAQ's

The Federal Work-Study program was created to give students the opportunity to earn money while in school. These earnings can be used to pay for educational expenses such as tuition and fees, or to assist with rent, food, books, and personal expenses. Work-Study is a job- you will not get paid to study. The term work-study refers to the experience of working while completing your education.

The Work-Study program is a good opportunity to learn new skills and gain experience in a position related to your personal interests and/or course of study. Think of your work-study position as a skill and resume building activity. A work-study job will allow you to make valuable connections within the Portland Community College community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to find a job?
You must find a job and begin working within the first 4 weeks of the term in which you were awarded. If you do not find a job within 4 weeks, your work-study funds will be canceled and the funds may be awarded to other students who are interested in participating in the work-study program.
How much will I get paid?
The On-Campus Work-Study positions have 3 pay levels. The pay rate corresponds to the level of skill and difficulty required for each position. The pay levels are listed for each job description.
  • Level 1 $8.95/hr
  • Level 2 $9.20/hr
  • Level 3 $9.45/hr
The Off-Campus Work-Study positions each have different pay rates that are, in general, between $8.00 and $12.00 per hour.
When will I get paid?
You will get a paycheck every two weeks . Please refer to the Bi-Weekly Payroll Schedule under Forms at the end of the orientation presentation. Your check will be mailed to you or deposited directly into your bank account if you complete the Payroll Direct Deposit form.
Will my Work-Study earnings be taxed?
Yes. This is a job and your earnings will be taxed.
Will my supervisor be flexible with my schedule?
Yes. Your supervisors know that your education is your priority and will work with you to create a plan that works around your class and study schedule. Though supervisors will be flexible, please keep in mind that like any other job, you will be expected to work the hours that you arrange with your supervisor.
Can I change jobs or have two work-study jobs at the same time?
No. You may only work one work-study job at a time. Once you are hired you are expected to stay with this job for the entire academic year. Changing jobs is made only on an exception basis and must be approved by the Work-Study Coordinator.
Can I earn more money than is listed on my award notification?
In general, no. You and your supervisor must monitor your earnings to be sure that you do not earn more per term than is listed term-by-term on your financial aid award. If you would like to increase your work-study award amount, please contact the Work-Study Coordinator. Increases may be made on a case-by -case basis and the student must have unmet financial need in order to increase the work-study award amount.
What if I am disqualified from receiving financial aid because of failure to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress?
You will lose all financial aid eligibility, including your work-study funds. Your supervisor will be notified that you can no longer work. If you submit an appeal to the financial aid office and it is approved, you may be able to have your work-study funds reinstated and begin working again. Please keep in mind that if you fall below 6 credits in the course of a term, you will lose your work-study eligibility.

Have More Questions?

Check out the Work-Study Basics and Frequently Asked Questions. If you have remaining questions or need assistance, please contact Dan Brewer, the Work Study Coordinator.