Part-Time Job ROI Tool
Calculate the trade-offs of working during school: after-tax earnings, financial aid impact, debt reduction, and the effect on studying time.
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Working During College – Financial Snapshot
Annual Gross Earnings
$7,425
15 hrs/week × 15 weeks × 2 semesters
Net After Taxes
$7,202
$16.00/hr effective take-home
Financial Aid Impact
-$193
FAFSA income protection $7,040
4-Year Net Benefit
$28,809
Includes $770 interest saved on loans
Where Your Money Goes
Net Benefit & Financial Aid Impact
Tuition Coverage
58% of annual tuition
Net after aid covers $7,010 per year.
Debt Reduction Potential
Apply $28,000 toward loans and save $770 interest.
Every $1 paid during school prevents $0.03 in interest.
Time Commitment
Balanced workload. Monitor study habits during exam weeks.
Total weekly commitment: 35 hrs (study + work)
Adjust Your Scenario
Job Setup
Taxes & Aid
Academic Balance
Time Management Tips
- Cap work at 20 hrs/week if GPA is slipping.
- Schedule deep work blocks on non-working days.
- Use campus tutoring or writing center to protect grades.
Decision Playbook
Work 10–15 hrs/week
- Optimizes GPA and builds experience.
- Stay under income protection to avoid aid reductions.
- Prioritize on-campus or work-study roles (FICA exempt).
If you need 20–25 hrs/week
- Automate savings toward tuition and loan payments.
- Communicate with professors about workload peaks.
- Consider group study sessions to compress learning time.
When to cut back
- Aid reduction wipes out more than 40% of earnings.
- Total weekly hours exceed 55; sleep drops under 6 hours.
- Scholarships require 3.5+ GPA and you’re on the bubble.
📚 Tax Rate Sources
Ordinary income is taxed at graduated rates from 10% to 37% based on filing status and income level.
→ Source: IRS - Federal Income Tax Rates and Brackets
• Short-term capital gains (assets held ≤1 year): Taxed at ordinary income rates (10-37%)
• Long-term capital gains (assets held >1 year): 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income
→ Source: IRS Topic 409 - Capital Gains and Losses
State income tax rates vary from 0% (no state income tax) to 13.3% (California top rate).
→ Source: Tax Foundation - State Income Tax Rates
Qualified dividends are taxed at the same preferential rates as long-term capital gains (0%, 15%, or 20%).
→ Source: IRS Topic 404 - Dividends
Note: Tax laws change frequently. These rates are current as of 2025. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This Part-Time Job ROI Tool provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. Actual results may vary significantly based on individual circumstances, market conditions, regulatory changes, and other factors beyond the scope of this calculator.
The calculations and projections provided are based on assumptions and historical data that may not reflect future performance.Past performance does not guarantee future results.
This tool is not financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or investment advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult with qualified professionals including:
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for tax matters
- Licensed attorney for legal matters
- Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) for investment decisions
Data Accuracy: All data sources, statistics, and rates were verified as accurate as of October 2025. Tax rates, market conditions, and other financial data change over time. Always verify current rates and consult official sources.
No Warranties: While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Use this tool at your own risk.