Financial Aid : Work Study Benefits

Benefits of a work study position

The average student loan debt for a Life West graduate (including undergraduate loans) is currently $159,000 (wi10 class).

This includes both Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, the Direct Graduate Plus and any private loans. When you enter repayment, your estimated monthly payments will be between $1050 and $1800.

Is there some way to change this?
Yes, did you know that you can earn up to $11, 440 by getting a work-study job?

This is how it works:
A student who is able to work a minimum of 10 hours a week at a rate of $10 an hour can earn $12,000 regular schedule and $14,000 extended schedule.

Compared to borrowing the funds?
If you were to borrow this amount versus working for the money, you would pay back $3 for every $1 you borrowed. Earnings of $12,000 would become a loan balance of $36,000 and earnings of $14,000 would become $42,000.

Will a job work around my schedule?
Yes, most departments are flexible and sensitive to student’s need and expect the same thing in return from their employees.

Where do I get information on jobs?
Job listings are posted on the bulletin boards outside the Financial Aid Office. A variety of positions are available with hourly wages ranging from $9 to $14. To apply for a position please see Jackie Biron or Sue Wagner in Student Services.

Where do students work?
The federal and institutional work-study programs offer jobs on and off campus. A variety of positions are available in administrative/ support services, labs, and clinic. In addition, the federal work-study program offers positions in tutoring elementary school students.

How and when are students paid?
Students are paid twice a month on the 15th and last day of the month. Checks are available for pick up at the Payroll Office.

Are you willing to make sacrifices  now for the future?
We know classes are tough and times are tight; however, for 10 hours a week you can greatly reduce your student loan debt and monthly payments in the future.