How does the Work Study at Rutgers function?

Guys, does anyone have any experience or insights on how the work study program at Rutgers functions? I’m looking for ways to offset my college expenses and heard work study could be a good one.

Rutgers University's Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is indeed a good way to help manage college expenses.

Once you're awarded work-study as part of your financial aid package, you'll need to find a suitable work-study job. Rutgers has an online portal called Rutgers Handshake where work-study jobs are posted. You can browse different departments or areas where these jobs are available and apply directly through the portal.

The role itself typically relates to the workings of the university. It could, for example, involve assisting in various administrative tasks in a department, working in the university library, or supporting student services. The goal is typically to provide roles that are somewhat relevant to the student's field of study or interests.

Work-study is also interesting because it aligns the job's working hours with your academic schedule. So, you won't find yourself working during the study or class hours.

Remember that you earn your work-study funds like a regular paycheck. It's not credited to your tuition fee or applied to any university fee. So, you have the flexibility to use it for miscellaneous expenses, personal needs, or you can even use this to pay part of your tuition.

Typically, you're allowed to work up to a set number of hours per week (typically20 during term time) and earnings are capped at the amount awarded in your financial aid package each academic year.

Just note that just because you're awarded work-study, it doesn't guarantee a job. You still need to apply and be hired, and jobs can sometimes be competitive. In addition, if you don't use all of your work-study funds, they don't roll over to the next academic year.

Lastly, the program does not automatically renew every year. You have to reapply every year and check your financial aid report, as the allocation could vary based on your financial circumstances each year. This means you might be eligible for more, less or no work-study in the next academic year.Hope this info helps and all the best with your search for a work-study job!