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Federal Work-Study Jobs

Application Process

Applications will not be available before positions are open. Once students have accepted their work-study offer, we will notify them through their MIX email (via WVU Portal) when jobs are posted.

Handshake

Provided by Career Services, Handshake is the University's job search and application database for all part-time student employment, internships, assistantships, and careers after earning your degree.

  • Log into the Handshake job search database.
  • If this is your first time logging in or if your information has changed, click on your name in the top right corner of the screen to show a drop-down menu, and select "My Profile." There, you can make sure your information is up-to-date.

Instructions

Uploading Your Resume

If you need help creating a resume, visit the WVU Career Services Develop Resumes, CVs & Cover Letters website for resume templates. You can even ask Career Services to review your resume via the same website. Don't forget to include any community service/volunteer work and employment (including high school jobs) on your resume.

When uploading your documents, please refer to the following tips:

  • Create a document that lists your availability (the days and hours you will be available to work) or use our Work Availability Form as a template.
  • Use a distinctive Document Name (example: Resume - Updated May 30, 2026 or Fall 2026 Work Availability).
  • Choose the proper Document Type for your upload.
  • For step-by-step instructions, visit the How to Upload a New Document website.

Applying for Positions

Students should only apply for positions that they are truly interested in. Supervisors can hire applicants without setting up an interview if they feel you would be a good candidate for their position. Please keep this in mind when you are searching and applying for different positions. Students are hired by supervisors on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • In Handshake, click on Jobs in the menu across the top of the page
  • Use the "WVU Collections" filter to select the collection for your campus (Morgantown, WVUIT-Beckley, or PSC-Keyser) to view only FWS jobs available at your campus
  • Research and apply for three to five jobs. Note: You will be assigned to the first supervisor who hires you, so only apply for jobs you truly want.
  • Monitor your MIX email via your WVU Portal. If a hiring supervisor has follow-up questions or wants to schedule an interview, they may email you.

Job Types and Opportunities

On-Campus Roles

On-campus opportunities are available to work-study students who wish to work for and alongside fellow WVU students, faculty and staff. These positions provide a chance to become involved with University life in unique ways that classrooms can’t always offer, leading to a well-rounded college experience.

Research Apprenticeship Program

The Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP) gives students the opportunity to engage in research within different majors and fields across the University. RAP positions give an excellent opportunity for students interested in research to expand their skills beyond the classroom. These positions are specific to coursework, majors and various fields.

Off-Campus Opportunities

Community partner positions are available to work-study students who want the opportunity to engage with the local community directly. With part-time positions through local nonprofit organizations, students can get out of their campus comfort zone, help their community, and experience new challenges while spreading WVU pride.