Studies show that work has positive effects on students’ overall academic achievements. As a student you have several employment options while attending FIU, whether or not you are eligible for financial aid.
You can search for on-campus student assistant or Federal Work Study (FWS) postings by visiting our Careers portal. For career opportunities outside of the university you may visit Academic and Career Success’ Handshake portal.
Work as a Student Assistant
Almost every department at FIU employs students part-time. These student assistant positions offer students work related to their skills, academic or career fields, and experiences or interests. To qualify you must be:
- Enrolled at FIU.
- Registered for at least six credit hours as an undergraduate student or three credit hours as a graduate student.
Work as a Federal Work Study Employee
FWS positions are available to help students who show financial need to earn a portion of their educational expenses through meaningful employment. The program is administered by the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office (FASO). To qualify you must be:
- Registered for at least six credit hours as an undergraduate student or three credit hours as a graduate student.
- Awarded and have accepted FWS funds through your financial aid award package.
For eligibility requirements and more information on Federal Work Study, please visit the Financial Aid website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours can I work?
You can only work a maximum of 20 hours a week.
Can I ever work beyond 20 hours a week?
Yes. You can work a maximum of 30 hours a week during semester breaks (winter break, spring break, & summer break).
Can I ever work beyond 20 hours a week outside of semester breaks?
Yes. You may choose to waive your student exemption and seek a job opportunity through a temporary appointment, which is a non-student position, if you are not an international student.
Can I work in more than one department?
Yes. As long as hours worked do not exceed the maximum 20 hours a week collectively.
If I am not enrolled for the summer, can I continue working as a student assistant?
Yes. As long as you were enrolled at least part-time for the spring and did not graduate.
If I graduate, can I continue working as a student assistant?
No. If an agreement with your department is discussed in advance, they may choose to change your status to a non-student temporary appointment for a maximum of two years.
As a student, do I have to complete a background check?
Yes. Background checks on student employees are conducted if the job description requires the following:
• Working with minors and/or vulnerable people
• Handling cash or credit card transactions
• Performing IT related functions
• Driving on behalf of the university
• Access to sensitive/confidential information
• Working within museums
• Working with Athletics
As an international student, can I work without having been issued a Social Security Number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration?
No. An international student who has not been issued a SSN may not begin working until they receive an SSN and card in hand. However, one can apply to any student Assistant posting on the Careers site. If selected as a finalist, it is the responsibility of the student to immediately initiate the process for securing an SSN with the International Student & Scholar Services Office.