Undergraduate Work Study and Financial Aid Skip to Main Content


2026 SGPP Minneapolis Commencement Livestream and Information

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Earn while you learn.

Need to cover school costs or just want extra cash? Work-study is a great way to earn money and gain experience. Each year, students make a real impact — and get paid — through flexible part-time jobs funded by federal programs, all while prioritizing academics.

Work-study pays off

Earn up to

$3,000/yr.

Starting pay is

$12

per hour

Get paid every

2

weeks

Why work on campus?

It’s more than a paycheck — it’s experience that pays off throughout your career. Plus, build connections — the best part of being at Saint Mary’s.

  • Gain real-world work experience and build your résumé
  • Make connections with faculty, staff, and other students
  • Grow your network for future job references
  • Skip the commute — work just steps from your dorm
  • Give back to serve the campus community
  • Earn money while balancing school life

 

What jobs are available?

Saint Mary’s offers student employment in areas and departments across campus, including:

  • Admissions Department
  • Advancement Department
  • Barnes & Noble Bookstore*
  • Chartwells Food Service*
  • Geospatial Services (GSS)
  • Library
  • Maintenance Department*
  • Other Campus Offices
  • Science Labs
  • Tutoring Services

*Open to all students, regardless of need-based aid (work-study eligibility).

How do I find a job?

We’re here to help you land a job now — and prepare for what’s next.

  1. Contact Admissions to get started. They’ll help review your financial aid package and determine your work-study eligibility.
  2. Career Services can help you with résumé writing and interview prep
  3. Contact Cardinal Central which posts and manages all on-campus/work-study jobs.

FAQ

What is Federal Work-Study?
Federal work-study is financial aid that helps eligible students earn money through flexible part-time jobs while attending school.
How do I know if I’m eligible for work-study?
Eligibility is determined by your FAFSA application. If you qualify, your financial aid award will include a work-study (WS) offer. Contact Admissions to walk through your financial aid package and get your questions answered.
Do I automatically get a job if I’m awarded work-study?
No. Getting a work-study offer doesn’t automatically place you in a position, but it does open the door to apply for on-campus jobs. You will still need to search, apply, and secure employment on your own, but we are here to help!
What happens after I apply to a campus job?
If selected for a job interview, you'll meet with individual offices or departments at the start of each semester.
Can I apply for campus jobs if I’m not in the work-study program?
Yes! Many jobs on campus are open to all students, regardless of work-study status.
How and when do I get paid?
Student employees start at $12.00 per hour and are paid biweekly. Work-study earnings are deposited directly into your personal (non-Saint Mary’s) bank account.

Got questions? Just ask.