New requirement for on-campus Federal Work-Study employers beginning fall 2026

Editor's note: This notice has been updated with a new date for the Human Resources Practitioners Meeting 

From: Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid

Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, Virginia Tech will require all on-campus departments and offices to complete and sign an employer agreement in order to participate in the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program and utilize FWS funding.

This new process is designed to strengthen the student employment experience, support consistent practices across campus, and ensure effective stewardship of Federal Work-Study resources. The agreement will also align on-campus processes with those already in place for off-campus FWS employers.

Additional details, including timelines and submission instructions, will be shared in the coming months.

Campus partners are encouraged to attend the Human Resources Practitioners Meeting on May 14 where more information about the new requirement and implementation process will be provided.

Questions can be directed to Elissa Waybright, assistant director of Federal Work-Study and Compliance, at ewaybrig@vt.edu.