Texas College Work-Study Program
Unlike a merit scholarship, Texas College Work-Study provides a paid job funded partly by the state to help students remain enrolled. Some positions include mentoring, tutoring, or advising college, high-school, or nonprofit students. Wages are earned for hours worked; the program is not an automatic grant or a job guarantee for every applicant. State guidelines require Texas residency, financial need, at least half-time enrollment, and pursuit of a degree or certificate. Rul
About Texas College Work-Study Program
Unlike a merit scholarship, Texas College Work-Study provides a paid job funded partly by the state to help students remain enrolled. Some positions include mentoring, tutoring, or advising college, high-school, or nonprofit students. Wages are earned for hours worked; the program is not an automatic grant or a job guarantee for every applicant.
State guidelines require Texas residency, financial need, at least half-time enrollment, and pursuit of a degree or certificate. Rules also address Selective Service or exemption, athletic scholarships tied to competition, and employment documentation; noncitizens may work with valid authorization. Institutions participate through allocated funds and a limited number of positions.
Start with the campus financial-aid office, which determines eligibility and connects students with openings. Ask about hourly pay, work location, schedule, and whether the position is standard work-study or mentorship. Work hours must fit around classes; colleges must provide training and supervision for mentorship roles.
Before relying on earnings for tuition, check payment timing, taxes, weekly-hour limits, and effects on other aid. Work-study may reduce borrowing, but income depends on securing and keeping a position. THECB links annual guidelines; review FY2027 materials and ask the campus because rules and allocations can change during the year.
Who it serves and what it can cover: Unlike a merit scholarship, Texas College Work-Study provides a paid job funded partly by the state to help students remain enrolled. Some positions include mentoring, tutoring, or advising college, high-school, or nonprofit students. Wages are earned for hours worked; the program is not an automatic grant or a job guarantee for every applicant. State guidelines require Texas residency, financial need, at least half-time enrollment, and pursuit of a degree or certificate. Rules also address Selective Service or exemption, athletic scholarships tied to competition, and employment documentation; noncitizens may work with valid authorization. Institutions participate through allocated funds and a limited number of positions.
How to apply or get help: Start with the campus financial-aid office, which determines eligibility and connects students with openings. Ask about hourly pay, work location, schedule, and whether the position is standard work-study or mentorship. Work hours must fit around classes; colleges must provide training and supervision for mentorship roles. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.
College financial-aid program