<p>what does this mean? "The College Job or Federal Work-Study is also an optional part of your aid package. You are not required to work, but the College will not replace this portion of your aid. "</p>
<p>the college will not replace this portion of your aid? does that mean i have to pay that portion if i dont work?</p>
<p>Yes, that's exactly what it means. If you turn down the work-study, you have to find that amount somewhere else; the school won't give it to you.</p>
<p>YOur FA package from the school is a combination of grants and work study. Grants don't need to be paid back obviously. But in the calculation, they might include $1800 (for instance) of work study. This would be what you are expected to earn during the school year -- at a part time job on or off campus. </p>
<p>Yes you'd have to come up with that amt somewhere else if you don't work.</p>
<p>thanks for the helpful responses!</p>
<p>I'd recommend the work-study. It's better than being in debt right out of college, and you probably will get a decent job, working in the student store or something. Plus, it's a way to meet new people if you're nervous about that at a new school.</p>
<p>Depending on the school, work study is very well paying. I earned enough for all my books and Spring Break trips, spending money and travel around the country. It also tightens up your schedule so you don't waste as much time as you might otherwise. One semester I worked 19 hrs / week. Not necessarily recommended but I got my best grades that semester b/c I didn't mess around</p>