It does not need to be repaid. Loans can be from the government, the college, or both. Loans must be paid back, generally at low rates of interest. Repayment usually is required to begin after the student graduates from college. In general, a Work Study job requires about 8-12 hours per week.
Students have a variety of choices about when and where they can work.
The applicant must be a citizen of the US or a Permanent Resident to be eligible for federal funds. There is no fee. When you do get it, check it immediately for any errors. If you go longer than six weeks without a response, call and check on the status of your form. Hold onto the SAR until you decide where you are going to enroll.