Student Employment

Student employment can help you earn money while building experience you can actually use. Our students work across campus and with approved off-campus partners, gaining skills in offices, studios, theaters, production spaces, and community organizations throughout Boston.

For Marieska Luzada ’23, that meant finding a work-study opportunity with Lyric Stage Company of Boston during orientation week. She later became the company’s press and digital marketing assistant—gaining real communication experience while helping support the cost of college.

There are two types of student employment available: Federal Work-Study and Emerson Employment.

Federal Work-Study (FWS)

FWS is a need-based, federally subsidized program for part-time employment. Students who receive FWS as part of their financial aid package can work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session, with earnings paid weekly directly to the student’s bank account. FWS funds are not credited toward tuition.

General Student Employment

General Student Employment is available to all enrolled students regardless of financial aid eligibility. Students who do not receive FWS can still apply for on-campus employment opportunities.

Receiving Federal Work-Study as part of your financial aid package does not guarantee employment. All employed students must complete I-9 and W-4 forms before starting any paid position. Students should bring original unexpired employment documentation only—photocopied, laminated, or faxed documents are not accepted.