Information for Off-Campus Employers
Read below to learn the benefits of hiring a RISD student—and how the Student Employment team can help get you started.
Why hire a RISD student?
Unleash creativity
RISD students are among the most innovative and talented in the world. Their focus on art and design can bring fresh perspectives and solutions to your organization regardless of the role they are hired for.
Cost-effective talent
The Federal Work-Study Program covers 75% of the student’s wages.
Your nonprofit only contributes 25%, while gaining exceptional talent.
Making a difference
RISD students are passionate about using their creative acumen for social good. They are driven to make a positive impact as part of the greater Providence community.
Interested in hosting an off-campus program for RISD students?
Let us know the details of your Federal Work-Study position and we’ll get back in touch to work with you.
Employment eligibility for students
Undergraduate RISD students who receive Federal Work-Study (FWS) in their financial aid award can apply to work for off-campus FWS positions hosted by local nonprofit, government or community-based organizations.
Employer eligibility
In order to hire RISD FWS students through this program, an off-campus agency must meet both of the criteria below. Also note that we reserve the right to determine whether an agency’s request to hire an FWS student will be approved. Not all employers with 501(c)(3) will meet the eligibility criteria. Students may not begin working prior to Student Employment approval and completion of all required documents.
Nonprofit status
Your agency must be a nonprofit, incorporated organization that matches at least one of the following criteria, per federal guidelines:
- recognized 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations such as shelters, hospitals, youth organizations, etc.
- state, local and federal government agencies.
- for-profit organizations whose business activity is related to the student’s academic program.
- positions at religious organizations that do not involve constructing, operating, or maintaining any part of a building used for religious worship or sectarian instruction. For example, students can work at a church that is operating a homeless shelter but can not assist a religious leader in making a space ready for religious service.
Any organization classified as tax-exempt by either the IRS or the Rhode Island Department of Revenue meets this requirement. A non-government employer must be a nonprofit agency and provide proof of 501(c)(3) status.
Public interest
The student employees perform must benefit the public at large, not just a specific group of people. This includes jobs in: literacy training, health care, childcare, education (including tutorial services), welfare, social services, transportation, housing and neighborhood improvement, public safety, crime prevention and control, recreation, rural development, and community improvement. Work for sectarian (religious) organizations is permitted, but the work must be in the public interest and cannot in any way support sectarian ends.
We may ask new agencies to submit additional information, such as your mission and funding source(s), as well as proof of nonprofit status.
How does the program work?
Partnership setup
Nonprofits in the greater Providence area can easily partner with RISD. We will begin by posting your available job opportunities on Artworks, a dedicate career and job posting site for RISD community members.
Student selection
You have the opportunity to select students whose skills and interests align with your agency and mission. Our staff will help facilitate the matching process to ensure a good fit for both parties.
Financial arrangements
The FWS program handles 75% of the student’s pay. Your nonprofit organization is responsible for the remaining 25%.
Ongoing support
Our staff provides continuous support to both our students and our nonprofit organization partners. To ensure a mutually beneficial partnership, we encourage regular check-ins.
To learn more or to start the process, contact Student Employment.
Take your next step
Get started as an off-campus employer with RISD through our agency onboarding guide.
01
Agency onboarding
If you’re looking to hire a Federal Work-Study (FWS) student from RISD, we’re here to help.
02
Hiring procedures
Find out what steps you need to take once you’ve found a RISD student you’d like to join your team.
03
Working with RISD students
Learn how you can best support your RISD student workers, as well as your responsibilities as their employer.