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It’s a need-based work opportunity that helps you earn money through part-time jobs while you're in school. Eligible students can work on campus or at approved off-campus locations and earn their FWS award as hourly wages paid directly to the student as a biweekly paycheck. FWS is a fall/spring-only program, so students can utilize their FWS award at any time during the academic year.

Eligibility is determined by Financial Aid Services each year once a student has submitted a FAFSA. If you are eligible, FWS will be listed as part of your financial aid offer, which you can review by logging into my.SMU.

No. Accepting simply indicates that you are eligible to apply for jobs classified as “federal work-study.” However, there is no obligation to participate even after accepting the offer.

Check ҹɫ����12twenty for on-campus positions. For off-campus jobs, ҹɫ����has contracts with certain off-campus partners and will post those opportunities to ҹɫ����12twenty. You must apply via SMU12twenty; don't contact the employer or agency directly.

Any student job on-campus at ҹɫ����can be hired as Federal Work-Study, but please indicate that you are FWS eligible when you apply.

All jobs on campus pay at least minimum wage ($7.25 per hour), but wages vary based on responsibility and skills required. Each department determines the hourly wage for a student position and the schedule that student will work with reasonable accommodations for the student's class schedule.

Yes, and the basic process is the same. You’ll need to complete additional New Hire paperwork, but it will be provided to you by your hiring supervisor. However, please note that students at ҹɫ����on an F1 or J1 visa are not eligible for FWS.

Dates of FWS work eligibility: 

• Fall 2025 and Spring 2026: August 23, 2025-May 1, 2026
• Fall 2025 only: August 23-December 19
• Spring 2026 only: January 12-May 1

ҹɫ����averages about 1,400 student jobs annually across all departments. Each position requires several supervisory steps from job posting to payroll.

You’re responsible for:

• Creating and posting the job description
• Interviewing candidates
• Completing all new hire paperwork
• Submitting documentation to HR/Payroll

All open student positions must be posted on ҹɫ����12twenty. Visit the Campus Partners page for detailed instructions on posting FWS jobs.

Yes, but it depends on several factors. For the most accurate, up-to-date information and procedures, please visit the International Student & Scholar Services page or call 214-768-4475.

Set wages based on job responsibilities and required skills, with a minimum of $7.25 per hour. Positions requiring special skills or certifications typically offer higher wages.

You're responsible for setting work schedules that accommodate students’ class schedules. Be flexible and clear about expectations during the hiring process.

Student Employment Information

• Email: stu_employ@smu.edu
• Website

ҹɫ����Payroll

• Help Desk: 214-768-2073
• Email: payroll@smu.edu

ҹɫ����Human Resources

• Front Desk: 214-768-3311
• Email: smuhr@smu.edu
• Hiring Students
• Hiring Temporary Staff

International Student Services

• Front Desk: 214-768-4475
• Email: ISSS@smu.edu
• Website