Summer Work-Study

Summer financial aid, including work-study, is separate from your academic year financial aid. 

When to apply

Summer work-study funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If you plan to earn work-study after May 10, 2026, you should apply for summer financial aid as soon as possible after the application opens on Feb. 25, 2026 in Buff Portal.

Financial aid application

By May 10, 2026, the Office of Financial Aid must have your 2025-26 & 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. ASSET/DACA students must have a 2025-26 & 2026-27 CASFA on file.

  Plan ahead: FAFSA processing can take up to two weeks 

Financial need

We'll check your FAFSA to see if you qualify for summer work-study. If you don't meet requirements, we'll cancel your work-study at the start of the summer term. Students and employers are notified if a student cannot begin working.

Not taking summer classes?

You can still get work-study if you're:

  • Currently enrolled in Spring 2026
  • Enroll for Fall 2026 by May 10, 2026
Retirement enrollment

Student employees required to contribute to a retirement account: 

  • Undergraduate enrolled in fewer than 6 credit hours
  • Graduate student enrolled in fewer than 3 credit hours
    • Possible exemption if completing a thesis or dissertation
  • Anyone regularly working 40 or more hours per week
Expected Summer Savings

In some cases, you could earn more work-study during summer session than your standard eligibility.

  • Funds are pulled from your next academic year’s work-study eligibility
  • The amount will appear as aid already paid on your next year’s financial aid offer

  Contact our office if you have questions.