PA State Work-Study Program (SWSP)

This program helps the local economy while giving Pennsylvania employers the opportunity to shape student's training. On-the-job experience means that students are more apt to keep their talents and skills in Pennsylvania by seeking employment in the state after graduation.

The SWSP is a PHEAA-sponsored program made possible through PA General Assembly funding and with the cooperation of Pennsylvania postsecondary institutions and employers. Work-study programs are a form of financial aid that are typically need-based and allow students to earn money to help pay for educational expenses. This type of financial aid usually does not have to be repaid by students.

Through this program, PHEAA reimburses eligible employers up to 50 percent of every dollar earned up to a student's SWSP award amount. Reimbursement rates and amounts are based upon the type of organization (such as for-profit or nonprofit) and the student's earnings. Organizations part