How are FWS earnings handled on the Federal Application For Student Aid (FAFSA)?
You report your federal work study earnings for the calendar year in question 44 (f). This results in a lower estimated family contribution on which the upcoming academic year financial aid award is based. For example, if you filed a 2002 tax return for $6000 but of that amount $5000 was earned as federal work study, you should list $5000 in question 44(f). This results in only $1000 of your income being used in determining your financial aid for the 2003-2004 academic year. This is available only for federal work study earnings, not nonfederal earnings. You still report the $6000 on your FAFSA as the adjusted gross income.