<p>I live outside USA, so I really do not have an idea of what can be possible to earn there.
I will study in California and my college (Harvey Mudd) expects me to contribute with about $2,000 of work study. I suppose that that quantity can be achieved during the academic year.</p>
<p>Do you think it may be possible to earn besides the 2K, $3,000 more? </p>
<p>I may need them to complete the EFamilyContribution. In the summer, I may go to New York to my uncle's house expecting to earn more there. </p>
<p>I need a GOOD estimate. A conservative figure.</p>
<p>Thank you.</p>
<p>Work Study is when you work during the academic year, with the College as your employer. So they will reduce your cost by $2000 per year, and you in turn will provide them that value in service (at the library, labs, whatever they tell you). If you are an international student, you may not be able to earn money in the summer, as any legal jobs involve social security numbers, work visas etc. Are you going to be on a B-1 student visa? If so, the only way to earn money would be babysitting, lawn-mowing, and stuff for neighbors who would pay you cash. Unless your Uncle is paying you to help him.</p>
<p>This site, the official site of the US Government for international students, is the best source of information regarding employment rules under student visa's. In your first year, you will be limited to on campus work. After that you can apply for up to 20 hours of off-campus work, which may be at a higher wage, but there are restrictions on some of the types of work that you can do. There are also some opportunities for summer employment under the student visa if it is deemed related to your course of study (i.e., a paid internship in your field of study, paid research in your field of study) but check the details out very carefully before assuming anything.</p>
<p>Anyhow, I suggest that all international students read the US government site with a fine tooth comb as it explains many issues related to Visa's, finances, and other aspects of studying in the US. I would also recommend that you contact the International Student office at Harvey Mudd ASAP to get answers directly from them about the employment opportunities on campus, and what the typical international student is realistically able to earn through on-campus employment. Be sure to ask what the typical international student earns through on-campus employment the first year, and what opportunities may exist for approved summer employment or off-campus employment under Visa restrictions. OF course, working in the summers means you will also have to pay living expenses during the summer as well as income taxes, which may make it difficult to earn the extra amount you need within the hour restrictions.</p>
<p>Educationusa Home page: <a href="http://educationusa.state.gov/finaid.htm%5B/url%5D">http://educationusa.state.gov/finaid.htm</a>
financial aid information, including work information link:
<a href="http://educationusa.state.gov/finaid.htm%5B/url%5D">http://educationusa.state.gov/finaid.htm</a></p>
<p>Also keep in mind that any money you earn will be counted in determining your financial need at a higher rate than your family income. This <em>may</em> mean that your EFC will rise in subsequent years.</p>