Colleges participating in the Work Colleges Program under Federal Work Study program must apply by March 2 if they want to continue participating in the program in the next academic year.
A February 18 Electronic Announcement outlined the application process for colleges interested in participating in the Work Colleges Program for the 2026-27 award year.
The Work Colleges Program, which is under the Federal Work Study Program, focuses on a commitment to community service at public or private nonprofit, four-year, degree-granting institutions. These institutions must have operated a comprehensive work-learning-service program for at least two years. More details can be found in the FSA Handbook.
New schools interested in participating in the Work Colleges Program for the first time starting in 2026-27 had to apply by October 31, 2025. Returning schools that are currently participating in the program during the 2025-26 award year, must apply by March 2, 3026 by submitting a completed “Institutional Application and Agreement for Participation in the Work Colleges Program” via the COD website.
The Department will notify the school’s Financial Aid Administrator via email in April 2026 if the school’s application and agreement is approved. The 2026-27 Statement of Account will reflect an increase to the FWS Program award.
Questions can be directed to the FSA Partner and School Relations Center at 1-800-848-0978 or via email to CODSupport@ed.gov.
