Student Employment

Welcome to the student employment resource page where you can find more information about Federal Work Study (FWS) and Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) positions. FWS and LAEP each provide an amazing opportunity to earn income while in school and also develop professional experience. To learn more, explore the provided resources and reach out to Jonathan Como (FWS) or Christopher Wardell (LAEP) with any of your questions!

What is Federal Work Study (FWS)?

Federal Study is a need-based federal student aid program that gives you the opportunity to earn money through part-time employment on the Cañada College campus, or in limited positions in the community.
The intent of the program is to assist students with paying for educational expenses. FWS jobs are available during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters students who meet federal and institutional eligibility requirements.

Find Available FWS Positions

Federal Work Study Student Basics

What is the Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP)?

The Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) offers eligible students at public colleges and universities the opportunity to earn money while gaining education-aligned, career-related employment. Similar to FWS, LAEP is funded by the state of California and enables eligible students to access additional employment opportunities.
LAEP allows a participating student placement in an educationally beneficial position that relates to the student’s area of study, career objective, or the exploration of career objectives. The program includes and emphasizes positions for students with employers that are capable of providing them with full-time employment opportunities after graduation, or opportunities to connect with other employers that are capable of providing them with full-time employment opportunities after graduation, within their areas of study.

The less debt you graduate with, the more choices you'll have in life!

When you take part in FWS or LAEP with Cañada College you will:

Gain valuable job skills and experiences.
Build your resume and create a vibrant, job-specific cover letter.
Find major-related work for an edge on graduate school applications or a future job search.
Meet students, work with professionals, and expand your social and career networks.
Be more confident talking to recruiters at job fairs.

Who is eligible for Federal Work Study (FWS) at Cañada College?

In general, to be eligible for a Federal Work Study offer to be included in your aid package, you must:

File your FAFSA by the March 2 Priority Filing deadline. (Note: FAFSA is available each year beginning October 1).
Answer "Yes" to question 31 on the FAFSA, "Are you interested in being considered for work-study?".
Demonstrate financial need, as determined by the Financial Aid Office.
Submit all requested financial aid documentation from your WebSMART requirements by the due date.
Remain enrolled at least half-time while working under the program.
Maintain eligibility for aid under Cañada College Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid Applicants while working under the program.

How can I tell if I am eligible for FWS?

If you are unsure if you are eligible please contact the Financial Aid Office and they can assist you in determining your eligibility with the program.

How can I apply for Federal Work Study (FWS) positions?

STEP ONE: Select "Yes" to the "Are you interested in Federal Work Study" on the FAFSA.

STEP TWO: Create an account at collegecentral.com/canadacollege.

STEP THREE: Sign in and search for available positions by typing “Federal Work Study” in the search field.

STEP FOUR: To apply for positions you are interested in you will need to upload a resume to your profile.

STEP FIVE: Once we get your application we will verify your are eligible for Federal Work Study and get scheduled for an interview with the supervisors.

Who is eligible for the Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) at Cañada College?

In general, to be eligible for a Learning-Aligned Employment Program internship, you must meet one of the following eight underrepresented criteria, along with the following:

FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT
VETERAN
FOSTER YOUTH
DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER (DRC) STUDENT
AB540 (UNDOCUMENTED) STUDENT
LOW INCOME
HOMELESS
DISPLACED
FORMERLY INCARCERATED

In addition, eligible students must also meet these criteria to maintain eligibility:

Enrolled in 6 or more units AND eligible program of study
Good SAP, or approved SAP appeal
California residency
Demonstrated financial need
Eligibility to work in the United States

How can I apply for Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) positions?

Under Construction ⚠️

Additional Benefits To Choosing Federal Work Study

Income

Why Choose Federal Work Study? Pocket money for things you want and need.

Opportunity

Although you are not guaranteed a job if you are awarded Work-Study, you are much more likely to be hired if you have Work-Study eligibility. In addition, your job will be close to where you study.

Student-Friendly Schedule

Your employer knows your first priority is as a college student. Employers try to be as flexible as possible in scheduling work hours around your class schedule.

Future Financial Aid Eligibility

As a financial aid need-based program. Work-Study income (although taxable) does not affect your future financial aid eligibility in the next tax year.

Work Experience

Students who have job experience and who have worked while attending school are more attractive to future employers. Your supervisor may become an excellent reference.

Academic Success

Campus research has shown that Work-Study students connect with the campus community, learn about resources available to students, and establish stronger relationships with faculty and staff. This correlates with the fact that students with Work-Study jobs are more likely to stay in school, perform better academically, and graduate.