Work Study Information for Employers

Work-Study for Employers

CWU partners with both on-campus departments and off-campus organizations to provide meaningful employment opportunities for students through the Federal Work-Study (FWS) and Washington State Work-Study (SWS) programs.

These programs not only help students pay for their education but also give employers access to motivated, high-potential student employees.

Federal Work-Study  (FWS) Program

The Federal Work-Study program provides funding for part-time employment to help students finance the cost of postsecondary education. Students must be paid at least the federal minimum wage.

Eligible employers include:

  • CWU departments
  • Federal, state, or local public agencies
  • Private nonprofit organizations
  • Private for-profit businesses

CWU is required to use a portion of its FWS allocation to support community service jobs, including:

  • Reading and math tutors for elementary and middle school students
  • Literacy support in family literacy programs
  • Emergency preparedness and response roles

To become an FWS employer, please contact us by email at WorkStudy@cwu.edu.

Washington State Work-Study (SWS) Program

The SWS program provides financial aid through employment for eligible low- and middle-income Washington students. Students work part-time in approved jobs that build professional skills and reduce reliance on loans. Many employers find and retain top talent through this program.

Benefits for Employers:

  • Hire students with up-to-date skills and training.
  • Mentor students to ensure they graduate career-ready. 
  • Receive up to 70% wage reimbursement, lowering labor costs and long-term hiring expenses.

How to Hire a Work-Study Student

Step 1: Determine Your Needs

Identify the type of work you need and the required qualifications.

Step 2: Submit a Contract

For State Work-Study: 

  • New employers: Complete the SWS Employer Contract and Business Profile.
  • Returning employers: Renew via the State Work-Study online system.
  • Submit all forms to WorkStudy@cwu.edu.

For Federal Work-Study:

  • Complete the FWS Off-Campus Contract, Business Profile, and Community Service Information.
  • Submit forms via email to WorkStudy@cwu.edu.

Step 3: Submit a Job Description

Once your contract is approved, complete and submit a Job Description Form for each position. 

Step 4: Interview and Hire

Begin interviewing students. Eligible students must have: 

  • A completed FAFSA
  • A work-study award letter

Once a student is selected, complete a Work-Study Personnel Action Form (WSPAF) with the student and submit it. 

Note: Students may begin work on the start date listed on the WSPAF, the Monday of the first week of classes, or the WSPAF approval date, whichever is latest.

Payroll and Reimbursement

Employers are responsible for:

  • Paying students at least once per month
  • Paying students directly and in full before seeking reimbursement

Reimbursement Process:

  • Submit Invoice Vouchers at least monthly to CWU Financial Aid.
  • Must be signed in ink by both the student and supervisor.
  • If adjustments are made to your invoice, CWU will notify you by email using the contact listed on the WSPAF. 

Important: Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, students cannot "volunteer" hours for an employer who is paying them through Work-Study.

Annual Renewal

To renew your job for the new academic year:

  • Off-Campus Employers
    • Complete and submit a new WSPAF with each student
    • Students will be awarded Work-Study once their financial aid file is complete
    • If a student is no longer eligible, CWU will notify both you and the student
  • On-Campus Employers
    • CWU Financial Aid will notify you by email when it’s time to renew your student job listings for the new academic year 
    • Students will be awarded Work-Study once their financial aid file is complete

Required Forms and Documents

Work-Study Personnel Action Form (WSPAF)

  • Required for all off-campus hires.
  • Must be completed and submitted to WorkStudy@cwu.edu.
  • This is not an award—students must still be officially awarded Work-Study by Financial Aid.
  • Download WSPAF (PDF)
Release of Information: Students must complete a Release of Information form in MyCWU to authorize Financial Aid to communicate with their employer.

Federal

State

Other Forms 

For On-Campus Employers and Supervisors Only:

 

 

CWU News

A window banner at Grandview School District

$4 million federal grant aimed at helping with school psychologist shortage

February 25, 2026 by

Photo of Kendall Smart working with a student at the Disability Services office

CWU Disability Services aims to provide equitable access to education

February 23, 2026 by

More News

Questions? Contact Us.

Financial Aid

Bouillon Hall 106