October 05, 2022
Applying for federal financial aid has gotten easier in recent years, and you can make it even easier for yourself by preparing ahead to answer the questions on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
One question that you should always answer "yes" to is the question about work-study. Specifically, the question asks if you are interested in being considered for work-study. The Federal Work-study Program provides jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay educational expenses. Because it is a need-based program, you must have demonstrated financial need in order to be considered for work-study.
If you answer no to this question, you will not be considered for work-study and eliminate that option for financial aid - even if you qualify for it.
If you answer yes to this question and do not qualify for work-study, your school will not offer you any work-study. If you do qualify and decide you do not want it, you can turn it down.
By answering yes to the work-study question, you keep your options open.
