Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a federally funded program. Students who are United States citizens or permanent resident aliens may apply and be awarded federal work-study that is based on financial need. FWS students may then earn up to the award specified by the Financial Aid Office in its award letter for the academic year.

Receipt of Federal Work-Study is solely a need-based award determined when U.S. citizens and permanent resident aliens annually file a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or an application for federal financial assistance. Ramapo's Office of Financial Aid packages and notifies all students of their FWS award and together with the Student Assistant Program monitors their earnings. Students are referred to the Student Assistant Program for unit placement based upon student interests and skills as well as position availability.

Community Service - Federal Work-Study recipients who can provide their own transportation are invited to explore off-campus placements at community service agencies. These positions (up to twenty hours weekly) can prove to be personally enriching while providing exposure to professional contacts that may be beneficial in furthering career goals.

Off-campus job opportunities at community service agencies can be arranged through the FWS/Community Service coordinator located in the Cahill Center, C-209. There is a financial incentive to compensate for the additional costs of transportation to off campus locations.