STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

Federal Work Study (FWS) and Campus Employment (CE)

FWS and CE are need-based awards for up to $3,125 per year for part-time employment in on-campus facilities, such as the library, science labs, computer labs, the dining room, and athletic team managers.

Actual earnings will depend on the number of hours the student works. Students are paid at least minimum wage. Missouri Minimum wage is $13.75/hr. through 2025 and will increase to $15.00/hr. in 2026. Students that work in Dining Services are paid an extra $0.25 an hour.

FWS and CE awards will not automatically be deducted from the student’s bill. Typically, students will be paid directly (twice per month, via direct deposit) and can use earnings for any indirect educational costs (books, personal, or transportation expenses).

All first-year students who will be working on campus will complete employment paperwork during a session at Orientation. Employment paperwork includes the Form I-9, a Missouri State W-4, and a Federal W-4. As part of completing the I-9 form, we are required to examine certain documents, which could include the student’s driver’s license, Cottey ID, social security card, U.S. Passport, birth certificate, etc.

Employment during the academic year and over the summer can provide financial resources to help students meet college costs. Research shows that students who work a modest number of hours per week during the academic year are more likely to graduate and have a higher grade point average.