Federal Work Study is not a lump sum grant.
You are eligible to earn up to the dollar amount listed on your financial aid award letter over the course of the term-time or summer employment. You are not guaranteed this money, nor are you required to earn it all. If you would like to earn the dollar amount listed on your financial aid award letter, you need to find a job and work the appropriate amount of hours. You will receive the money in weekly paychecks based on your hourly wage and hours worked.
In order to activate your Federal Work Study you must register your job. with the student employment office.