Schools that have a work-study program make it easier for college students to pay for school with minimal help from their parents or through the use of government loans or private loan institutions. Work-study is usually arranged through the student’s college so that the individual can earn money while taking classes and earning a degree. It has its advantages and disadvantages. For those using work-study programs in combination with alternative student loans, there is less money to pay off after graduation because less money is borrowed.

Working on campus is filled with opportunities to meet others and make new friends and contacts. It is also a good springboard for both social interaction and future employment.

Work-study students often cannot find work in their majors on campus. Working as a teaching assistant may be an option; however, most students usually wind up working in the library, cafeteria or in administrative offices.

When the campus is closed, students usually get that time off from work. They can visit with family or take a vacation. Students in regular employment during school are often required to work through breaks and vacations to keep their employers happy.

Supervisors are more likely to understand when a worker needs to take time off to study for an exam than an employer not affiliated with the school.

Many positions on campus simply require someone to be a gatekeeper at a checkpoint. While the worker is checking IDs or answering the occasional question at a front desk, there is ample time for studying on the job. This is an easy way to complete homework assignments and brings new meaning to the term "work-study."

Program participants make it possible for the college to have facilities and offices maintained by young adults. It is less expensive than a regular work force and features people who truly care about their school and environment.

Many school-based programs require their participants to keep a minimum standard grade point average. When working, sometimes studying and enjoying college life become a multi-tasking challenge. The students are given gentle reminders to stay on track for academics.

For students hoping to create a higher-paying future for themselves in a field of work they enjoy, college is an important path to take. Finding a way to pay for it has its challenges. Students in the work-study program usually benefit financially from the experience, but they will need a supplemental means of paying for college.