Southwestern Law School Los Angeles, CA
 

Federal Work Study (FWS)


Note: All time sheets must be submitted to the Financial Aid Office no later than 10 a.m. on the designated dates (listed on the back of the time sheet). 

The Federal Work Study (FWS) Program is designed to assist students in meeting their educational expenses through part-time employment, and to encourage them to participate in community service activities. Employment earnings are paid twice a month, directly to the student. Once approved for FWS funds, the student must secure a position through an eligible employer. Job opportunities are posted on this site and in the Career Services Office.

Eligible Employment

Any office at Southwestern, non-profit organization or government agency that meets the requirements set forth in federal regulation, is considered to be an eligible FWS employer. No sectarian or political group will be approved as an employer. The employer must be able to meet its share of any financial obligation inherent in the hiring of the student. A student does not automatically qualify for a job simply based on FWS eligibility. The student must still pass the employer's interview.

Community Service

Southwestern is required to designate a portion of its FWS allocation to jobs in the service of the community. Students are encouraged to participate in jobs which are in the public interest. A listing of current and potential community service eligible employers is available in the Financial Aid and Career Services offices.

Salary Guidelines

On campus FWS wages range from $10 to $15 per hour, depending upon the job responsibilities. The employer determines off campus wages. Current federal regulations require that at least the minimum wage be paid.

FWS Restrictions

The following restrictions pertain to all students employed under the FWS program:

  • You may not begin working until your FWS eligibility has been determined and you have been approved by the Financial Aid Office.
  • You may not earn over the amount listed on your most recent Award Letter.
  • You may not work or perform work-related duties while you are scheduled to be in class or at an externship.
  • The Financial Aid Office must approve all FWS employers prior to the beginning of any work.
  • While classes are in session, students taking 13 or more units may not work more than 20 hours per week (Monday through Sunday). Students may work up to 40 hours per week; when classes are not in session, during the SUMMER session, or if the student is enrolled in 12 units or less.
  • A FWS employee may not work more than 8 hours per day and/or 40 hours per week.
  • You may not work more than 6 consecutive days, as it is a violation of the overtime rule.
  • You must take a meal break after 5 hours of continuous work.
  • We will not process your time sheet UNTIL you have been awarded work study and the proper documentation has been submitted and processed (W-4, I-9 and supporting identification).
  • In order to comply with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services rules, any employee must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States within three working days of hire. No employment may begin until Form I-9 and a W-4 form have been completed and submitted to the Financial Aid Office.
  • An FWS employee's work study position must be terminated immediately upon academic disqualification or if the employee is working during a period of non-attendance and the law school has reason to believe that the student may not return after the period of non-attendance is over.
  • Time sheets MUST be signed by the supervisor. It is your responsibility to make sure your time sheets are signed on time.
  • Time sheets for student employees must be turned in to the Financial Aid Office by 10 a.m. according to published schedules.
  • Any student who violates the above restrictions or the Terms of Agreement (off-campus employees) may be terminated from the FWS program by the Financial Aid Office or their employer.

Time Sheets

Time sheets must be submitted to the Financial Aid Office for processing and payment. Time sheets for student employees will not be accepted unless signed by the student and supervisor. Late time sheets will be paid the following payday. Students interested in automatic deposit, should visit the Accounting Office.