Student Employment Office

Should a student work?

That depends on the student. However, studies conducted by the National Association of Student Employment Administrators show that “students who work, do as well or better academically as students who do not work”.

How can a student search for a part-time job?

Simple – use LakerJobs. Students find part-time employment both on and off campus by searching for jobs using our web based electronic job board, which is available 24/7 from any computer.  

Do I need to register for LakerJobs?

No, all Grand Valley students have access to LakerJobs. However, you will also need to complete a profile the first time you use the site.  To access LakerJobs you will use your Grand Valley network information. If you are having problems accessing LakerJobs, call the Student Employment Office (616-331-3238) and we can assist you.

What types of employment are available on campus?

There are a variety of jobs available to students on campus such as cashiers, computer assistants, lab assistants, office work, library clerks, recreation center attendants, grounds keeping, security, food service, information clerks, tour guides, golf course attendants and wait staff, just to name a few.

As an incoming freshman, when is the best time to look for an on campus job?

On campus employment opportunities fluctuate; more positions are posted at the start of Fall semester. You will see these positions on LakerJobs beginning in July. Apply early and often. New positions are posted on LakerJobs throughout the year.

What is work-study?

Work-study is a form of financial aid. In order to be eligible for work-study, a student must demonstrate financial need, be a full time student, be a citizen or permanent resident and meet other federal/state eligibility requirements.

How does a student apply for work-study?

A student must apply for financial aid and be awarded work-study as part of the financial aid package. To apply, a student needs to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)online.  More information about filling out the FAFSA can be found on the Financial Aid Office website.

Does work-study pay for my tuition?

No. The money a work-study student earns is paid to him/her in the form of a paycheck. Your earnings are NOT applied to your bill as a credit. The student is to use this money for expenses while attending the University. This can include expenses to go home during breaks, food, laundry, housing, books, etc.

Do I need to have a work-study award to work on campus?

No. There are jobs on campus that do not require you to have a work-study award.  There are departments that hire quite a number of students that do not have work-study, such as Food Service, Facilities, Public Safety, University Bookstore, etc.

How many hours can I work on campus?

The maximum hours a student can work on campus is 25 hours per week. International Students can work a maximum of 20 hours per week. When classes are not in session, students can work a maximum of 40 hours per week.

How will I be paid?

Student employees are encouraged to utilize Direct Deposit. If a student opts not to utilize Direct Deposit their check will be sent to a centralized location on each of GVSU's campuses. Off campus employers will follow their own pay procedures.

When will I be paid?

Student employees will earn a bi-weekly paycheck based on rate of pay and number of hours worked. Click here for Pay Periods and Pay Dates.

I am an International student. Can I work on campus?

International students may work on campus if pursuing a full course of study and with the following type of visa:

  • While maintaining valid F-1 status, may be employed on the campus of the school they are enrolled to a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session. Part-time, on campus employment is authorized by the school, and prior INS approval is not needed. During school vacations, students may work on campus for a maximum of 40 hours per week if otherwise eligible and intending to enroll for the next term.
  • While maintaining valid J-1 status, may be employed on the campus of the school in which they are enrolled to a maximum of 20 hours per week with prior written authorization from the Responsible Officer (RO) of their designated program.

Page last modified May 10, 2013