UCA Student employment, otherwise known as work-study, provides approximately 13% of UCA students with the opportunity to work on campus. Work-Study is a great opportunity to obtain work experience, connect with peers and mentors while earning money to help with school expenses. Students work before or after class, sometimes evenings or weekends depending upon the position, and are paid at least minimum wage for the work they perform.
Federal vs. Institutional Work-Study
- Federal Work-Study: A need-based program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. In order to be eligible a student must:
- Be a degree seeking student at UCA
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Meet financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards
- Qualify for federal financial aid based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Have remaining financial need, considering any scholarships, grants and loans awarded and accepted
Students should contact a Financial Aid Counselor to determine eligibility for Federal Work Study.
Please note: Eligibility for Federal Work Study simply means the student is eligible to accept a federal work study position on campus. It does not guarantee the student a work-study position or if hired, that the full amount of the estimated eligibility will be earned.
- Institutional Work-Study: These positions are similar to federal work-study although the student is not required to demonstrate need through the FAFSA. In addition, international students are also eligible to work in institutional work-study positions with some limitations.
Finding a Position
As mentioned, work-study positions are extremely limited. Students are not placed in jobs. Instead, students interested in working on campus must apply for positions, much as you would for any position in your hometown. Help is available.
- The UCA Human Resources Office provides a listing of on campus student employment opportunities on their website under the Student tab and an application is submitted on that site.
After the student submits an application for the position, the hiring department will typically set up interviews to select the best applicant. During the interview a job description will be provided. If hired, additional paperwork must be completed for payroll purposes. the supervisor will explain what paperwork is needed along with the process for submitting time sheets and being paid.
Expectations of the Student Employee:
- Students must complete all required hiring forms and submit them to their supervisor prior to beginning work.
- Students must be enrolled and attending classes at UCA when working during the fall and/or spring terms. Some exceptions to enrollment apply to summer.
- Students may work no more than 1,500 hours in a year (July 1 through June 30).
- Students may not work during a scheduled class time/meeting.
- Students are expected to maintain their agreed upon work schedule and complete time sheets accurately and promptly.
- Arkansas Code 21-5-109 requires direct deposit as a condition of employment. The Direct Deposit policy includes part-time employees, graduate assistants, and student workers.
Potential Earnings:
The chart below provides an estimate of the amount you may be able to earn based on the position you accept, the number of hours you work and if accepting a federal work study position, the amount you are eligible to earn based on your federal aid application.
**Please note that the 20 hour rule (while enrolled) for International Students is still in place. This is a federal law and not complying could result in the student losing their visa status.