The Federal Work-Study Program was established by Congress to aid US citizens and permanent residents who need to work in order to meet educational expenses. Eligibility for this program depends on financial need as determined by a federally mandated need analysis, for which the FAFSA is required. Each year Columbia students fill many on-campus positions, as well as jobs in off-campus public and nonprofit organizations, through funds allocated to this program.
Federal regulations restrict employment in this program to 20 hours a week during the academic year. Students may work up to 35 hours per week during the summer and vacation periods. Students who will begin graduate work during the regular academic year may hold a federal work-study position during the summer prior to matriculation (from July 1 on).
Fellowship students should review the employment policy before accepting any work-study positions.
Applying for Federal Work-Study
All GSAS students applying for federal work-study must complete both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Request for Loans and/or Federal Work-Study, which must be submitted to the GSAS Office of Financial Aid in 107 Low Library.
Finding Work-Study Positions
For more information and to search for positions, see the university's Work-Study Office website.
