College Dreams Stall As Work Study Funding Vanishes Across Campuses

The Federal Work-Study program serves as a vital government initiative, allocating around $1 billion annually to assist colleges and universities in funding part-time employment opportunities for students, both on and off campus. Supporting nearly 700,000 students each academic year, it has consistently enjoyed bipartisan backing since its inception in 1964. However, recent proposals from the Trump administration aim to slash work-study initiatives by $980 million, creating uncertainty surrounding the future of this crucial support, particularly as a federal budget for fiscal year 2026 remains unapproved.As many college enrollment experts observe, work-study not only offers financial assistance but also fosters a sense of belonging among students. Nevertheless, challenges persist, including disparities in who receives these opportunities and concerns regarding the adequacy of earnings compared to rising tuition fees. Experts advocate for clearer communication of eligibility and enhanced promotion of work-study roles, ultimately reimagining financial aid strategies to align with students’ academic and career aspirations.