How does federal work-study work and is it worth it?

Work-study is a need-based federal program that subsidizes part-time jobs for students, usually on campus, so your student earns money to help pay college costs as they go. You qualify by filing the FAFSA and showing financial need; the award is a maximum amount you can earn, not a grant deposited up front – your student gets a paycheck for hours actually worked. It's often worth it because the jobs tend to be flexible around class schedules, the earnings don't count against next year's FAFSA aid the way regular wages can, and on-campus work correlates with staying enrolled. Pay is typically at least minimum wage. The catch: awards are limited and you must find and keep an eligible job. If offered, accept it and have your student apply for positions early, before the good ones fill.