What is Work-Study and GSA

On-campus employment is funded by two sources:

Work-Study

Work-Study Eligibility

Work-Study is financial aid that helps students earn money through part-time jobs on campus. To qualify, you must:

File your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on time.
Have “Federal Work-Study” listed on your Financial Aid award letter.

Not sure if you qualify? If you filed a FAFSA but don’t know your status, contact Student Employment Services (ses@cmich.edu).

Work-Study Jobs

Work-Study jobs are available in many different campus departments. You can earn up to the amount shown on your award letter, and you’ll be paid every two weeks. You can use these earnings however you choose.

Important to know:

Work-Study money can only be earned through approved on-campus jobs (not private, off-campus work).
“Work-Study” refers to how you’re paid—it doesn’t mean you can study while working.
Some students may qualify for Summer Work-Study. You don’t have to be enrolled in summer classes, but you do need to file a FAFSA for both the current and upcoming academic year.

General Student Assistance (GSA)

GSA is obtained by all students enrolled at least 1/2 time and all international students enrolled full-time.

All students can work in GSA jobs, including international students and students not qualifying for financial aid. GSA positions are paid by departmental budgets. Students do not have a maximum amount of earnings.

GSA is not awarded on a Financial Aid award notice. Students need not have filed a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to be paid GSA.

NOTE: It is possible to have both a Work-Study position and a GSA position. It is also possible, upon departmental approval, to have your position switched from Work-Study to GSA after earning your awarded amount.