The State Work Study program helps students from low- and middle-income families earn money for college while gaining experience whenever possible in jobs related to their academic and career goals. Students can use the program at Skagit Valley College while enrolled in 6 or more credits during an academic quarter and may work part time up to 19 hours/week).

Students who have applied for financial aid and have received their award letter should contact the SWS Coordinator at (360) 416-7684 or the Financial Aid office to determine their eligibility under this program.

Student Eligibility

To be eligible for this program, you must meet the following criteria:

 - Indicate your desire for financial aid based on a completed Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form (You can submit this form online), and

- Be enrolled in at least six credits of classes, and

- Find a job that relates to your chosen major or educational goal 

Award

Awards are based on the availability of funds and your determined financial need. While awards vary, students generally earn between $2,000 and $5,000 per year (the most common award amount is $3600 over 3 quarters or $1200 per quarter). Students may work a maximum of 19 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours during school breaks.

Employer Benefits

Looking for new workers? Would you like to hire a bright, educated employee, equipped with the latest training and skills? Of course you would, but would you also appreciate the opportunity to "preview" this employee so you can evaluate their performance and see if they fit in with your team's efforts to achieve your company goals? How about if we told you that the program will also reimburse you for 65% of their part-time wages so that you can enjoy all the above benefits in a low-cost situation? If you are like any other employer who hires one of the state's 9,000 work-study students, then you will be interested in hearing more about this "win-win" program.

We can help connect you to students employees. Post your Work Study job openings for free on our Online Job Board. Registration is quick and easy, then you can post jobs, internships and work study openings.

Over 2,200 employers in the state of Washington currently participate in the State Work Study program. To encourage employers to participate in the program, the state generally reimburses up to 65% of a student's wages…everyone wins: Employers receive low cost part-time help, students earn money for school and receive valuable work experience, and the state is able to help more students go to college.

How to Enroll

1. There is a bit of paperwork necessary to ensure the program runs effectively. After determining eligibility, students wishing to participate in work study should contact our Work Study Coordinator (located in the Counseling & Career Services Center).

2. Students can check for on-campus Work Study positions in the Financial Aid office on the Mount Vernon campus.

3. Off-Campus Work Study students must then find a willing employer to complete the necessary paperwork and return to the Coordinator. (Career & Employment Services can help train you to make that employer connection.)

4. The Director of Financial Aid will then determine award amounts for the academic year.

5. Student begins working ~ do a good job...it's YOUR future! You will be paid a comparable wage and in a manner as any other employee.

6. Each month, your employer will submit the required SWS Timesheet and Invoice for reimbursement of your wages.

There is a hard deadline each month for these documents.  Failure or tardiness in turning them in may result in the delay or denial of reimbursement to the employer.

Visit the website for the Higher Education Coordinating Board for more information about this and other state aid programs.