Federal Work Study

The Federal Work Study (FWS) program provides many departments on campus with funds to hire student workers with financial need. In order for the department to use this money for student worker salaries the students they hire must qualify for and be awarded need based FWS (1502) financial aid.

It is important to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early and indicate that you are interested in receiving Federal Work Study. Once awarded, students can check their financial aid using the myUCA Self-Service portal to see if they were awarded FWS funds. If you are not sure whether you are eligible, you must contact or visit the Student Financial Aid Office to determine if you qualify.

Institutional Work Study

Some departments on campus hire students and use institutional funds to pay their salaries. These positions are based simply on the availability of funds in each department and do not depend on any financial need. Students qualifying for FWS can also be hired and paid out of institutional funds at the department's discretion.

Finding Work Study Jobs

All students who have been awarded FWS financial aid are encouraged to find a job promptly. You can begin searching for a job before you are awarded, but cannot be hired under the FWS program until your award is made. Departments typically fill vacant positions before or around the beginning of the term. Those interested in working during the fall semester should begin searching immediately after the end of the spring semester and/or throughout the Summer. In general, begin and continue searching one semester before you would like to begin work.

The UCA Career Services Center maintains a list of Federal Work Study and Institutional Work Study jobs currently available. Please note that this list is not comprehensive and students are advised to contact departments directly to inquire about available positions. Spending a few hours on campus searching for a job significantly increases your chances of being hired.

Work Study Employment Terms & Conditions

• As a student worker you are responsible for performing your assigned duties to the best of your ability.
• You must be present for work during your scheduled times and report time worked accurately and promptly as required by the Department of Human Resources.
• Students are not allowed to work during their scheduled class times.
• Students should not expect to be able or allowed to study while at work. This will vary depending on the specific job.
• Departments may have specific requirements and needs that you should be prepared to accept before employment.
• Student workers must complete all necessary forms required by the hiring department and the Department of Human Resources before employment begins.
• Effective March 1, 2010, UCA implemented Arkansas Code 21-5-109 requiring direct deposit as a condition of employment.  The Direct Deposit policy includes part-time employees, graduate assistants, and student workers.