Work Study

Finding and Applying for Work-Study Jobs

Work-Study is not assigned automatically. Students are responsible for finding and securing their own positions.

Tips for Applying

• Start early. Many employers fill roles quickly.
• Contact employers directly and ask about open positions (even if none are posted). Many jobs are never formally listed.
• Each employer sets their own application and interview process.

If you need help with your search, connect with Career Services. 

On-Campus Work-Study Jobs 

All on-campus Work-Study jobs are listed on CWU’s online job board. How to Navigate the Job Board:

1. Log in to your MyCWU dashboard
2. Select "Wildcat Career Network" under the Applications menu
3. Filter postings by "Student" under Job Family 
4. Review listings and apply online
5. Reach out to the contact person listed in the job posting with specific questions

Be sure to indicate you’re Work-Study eligible in your application.

Off-Campus Work-Study Jobs

CWU partners with approved off-campus employers to offer Work-Study positions related to students' career goals. Where to Look:

• Wildcat Career Network via your MyCWU dashboard
• Job Board in Bouillon Hall (1st floor)
• Inquire directly with community employers 

Want to Create Your Own Opportunity?

If you find an off-campus job aligned with your major or career goals, you may be able to develop a Work-Study partnership with that employer. Contact the Financial Aid Office to see if the position qualifies for the off-campus Work-Study program.

Considerations and Limits

Work Hour Limits and Employment Considerations

• Work-Study and on-campus student employees are limited to 19 hours per week during the academic year. 
• If you need to work more hours, you may consider non–Work-Study employment off campus.
• The Ellensburg area is walkable, and many jobs are within a 30-minute walk from campus.

Off-Campus Job Listings and Disclaimers

CWU provides off-campus job listings as a courtesy to students. Employer contact info is included in each listing. Please notify the Financial Aid Office if:

• A job is no longer available
• You have concerns about an employer listed

Disclaimer: CWU does not perform background checks on employers or student applicants. All hiring and compensation arrangements are handled directly between the student and the employer.

CWU will not post jobs that:

• Appear to discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender
• Require registration fees or monetary investments 
• If something seems suspicious:
• Trust your instincts—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
• Report scams to local law enforcement and the WA State Attorney General's Office

Renewing Your Work-Study Position

If you're currently employed in a Work-Study position and plan to return to the same employer next academic year, the renewal process is straightforward and varies slightly depending on your employer type.

Off-Campus Employers

The rehire process is the same as a new hire. To renew your off-campus Work-Study job: 

• Your employer must complete a new Work-Study Personnel Action Form (WSPAF) with you.
• Submit the completed form to the Financial Aid Office.
• You will be awarded Work-Study for the upcoming year once your financial aid file is complete.
• If you're not eligible for Work-Study, both you and your employer will be notified.

On-Campus Employers

• Supervisors will receive an email notification when it's time to renew student positions.
• Your supervisor will submit the renewal spreadsheet to the Financial Aid Office.
• Work-Study will be awarded once your financial aid file is complete.
• If you're no longer eligible, both you and your supervisor will be notified.