Federal Work-Study is a federal financial aid work program partially or fully funded by the United States Department of Education. In most cases, Penn State contributes a portion of the funds for work study positions. The university administers this program in accordance with the laws, federal regulations and instructions issued by or on behalf of the Department of Education, as well as its own institutional policies. However, the Nittany Lions Read/Nittany Lions Count Program, which evolved from the original America Reads Initiative and The America Reads/America Counts Challenge, is a fully funded Federal Work-Study Program.
In order to qualify for an Federal Work-Study award, students are required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA). Students must complete and submit the FAFSA annually. For full consideration of financial aid opportunities at Penn State, it is recommended that students complete their FAFSA by December 1 of the prior year.
Students must also meet the following conditions:
- Be accepted for enrollment or be enrolled in at least six credits.
- Receive an award as part of their Student Aid Package and accept the offer or demonstrate federal financial need as determined by The Office of Student Aid.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress while employed as a mentor.
- Remain in good standing on educational loans and grants per the National Student Loan Database System (NSLDS).
Additional information concerning eligibility for Federal Financial Aid is available on the OSA Website.
Student eligibility to participate in the program is reviewed routinely. Awards are provided for the academic year. Summer session awarding is based on enrollment criteria unique to the summer sessions. For more information, please contact The Office of Student Aid.
Students who received a Federal Work Study award have the opportunity to obtain a job and perform related duties either on campus, or remotely, if possible and at the discretion of the employer. Students applying for Federal Work Study positions should clarify expectations with their potential employer regarding either on campus/in person or remote work arrangements. A Federal Work Study award does not guarantee a job position is available.
