Federal Work-Study Program (FWS)
The Federal Work-Study Program (FWS) is often what makes getting critical public interest experience economically feasible, and is one of the most important resources for students interested in public interest and government experience. The program combines federal, institutional, and employer contributions to provide a stipend of approximately $12 per hour to qualifying students. Students must apply separately for academic year and summer allocations. Since eligibility is based on the student’s income in the prior year, students must apply each year, and those not eligible at the start of law school may be eligible at the start of their second year. Students are also advised to apply as early as possible (by April 15th is best), because funds are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Applications include the following, and should be made through the Financial Aid Office:

• Filing a FAFSA form online at www.fafsa.ed.gov;
• Filling out I-9 (work eligibility) and W-4 (withholding tax) forms
• A Job Offer document (an email or letter from the employer confirming your job offer
• Filing an Employer Information Form
  Employers of all but Fellowship students must also sign a work-study contract.
  During the internship the student must file time sheets, and the stipend will be disbursed on a bi-weekly schedule set by the Financial Aid Office.