12 Work-Study Program Qualifications

5. Enrollment status and degree-seeking requirement

Work-study eligibility often depends on being enrolled at an eligible institution as a degree-seeking student. Schools commonly require a minimum number of credit hours—half-time or at least part-time—for federal aid, though some campus jobs permit employment for students enrolled less than half-time if the institution funds the position. Non-degree or visiting students may be excluded from federal programs, but institutional work-study rules can be more flexible. Online enrollment and hybrid coursework count, but confirm whether your program’s registration status meets your school’s definition of eligible enrollment. What to do next: check the minimum credit requirement with your financial aid office and update your enrollment if needed before payroll or eligibility certification dates. Keep copies of registration confirmations when you change your schedule.