Focused woman wearing glasses repairing a bicycle wheel in a sunlit workshop

Work-Study

What is work-study?

Work-study was created to stimulate and promote part-time employment for students who have financial need. Work-study allows a student to earn financial aid through employment. Instead of a financial aid payment, the student's work-study funds are paid in the form of a payroll check for time/hours worked. Work-study contributes more than just financial assistance to your college education. It offers you a double bonus—education plus job experience. In increasingly competitive job markets, employers seek applicants who have academic as well as job experience. Work-study may also provide:

  • Practical training and experience in your chosen field
  • Positive job experience to help you identify career objectives
  • An impressive resume and recommendations from former employers

UC Davis offers two types of work-study: Federal Work-Study and institutional work-study. Undergraduate and graduate students may be eligible. Because funding is limited, not all students with need are offered work-study. Funds are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.