Best Tuition Reimbursement Jobs

Graduating from college has been one of my greatest accomplishments. But I didn’t have a lot of time to enjoy my college degree before I had to start thinking about paying back my student loans.

After college, I was shocked to learn that companies and employers offer tuition reimbursement jobs, which can be a major help for any recent graduate. More than that, I was upset that I was just finding out about it! Luckily, you will now know about these opportunities as I'm going to share with you everything I know about tuition reimbursement jobs.

As a graduate, I know how helpful any kind of tuition assistance can be, so I will discuss how tuition reimbursement works and how it benefits everyone. In addition, I've put together a researched list of top companies that offer tuition reimbursement.

So, if you’re thinking of going to school or are in school now, keep reading to find out how your job might be able to help you.

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What is Tuition Reimbursement?

In my quest for a job that offered a salary sufficient to maintain my loan payments, I discovered a program regarding employee benefits and accommodations that was more than just PTO and 401ks: tuition assistance.

Tuition reimbursement, or tuition assistance, is an employee benefit that allows employees to receive partial or full payment for their tuition costs or education-related expenses while working for a company. This employee benefit is meant to help employees advance their education while reducing student debt.

How a Tuition Assistance Program Works                                                                 

Usually, a company will have a set amount of costs to reimburse employees (students) once the employee has completed the course or year. Because the employer pays after courses have been completed, the employee is responsible for the full tuition coverage at the beginning of each semester.

However, this general process varies from company to company. For instance, some companies will set their reimbursement rates by percentage, others will offer set dollar amounts, and some companies will cover full tuition costs.

And then, you will run into companies that only offer tuition assistance programs if you attend certain colleges or universities or study certain subjects (e.g., engineering program working for an engineering company).

These stipulations all depend on the company, so it is crucial to check the fine print when it comes to employee benefits and their tuition reimbursement program (if they have one).

Try applying for scholarships in conjunction with a reimbursement program to attend class with minimal fees!

Benefits of Tuition Reimbursement

When it comes to tuition reimbursement benefits, there are some perks for both employer and employee that don’t revolve around the essentials like retirement and vacation. Let’s talk about it:

Employees (Students)

• Student Debt Reduction – First and foremost, any tuition reimbursement or assistance program reduces the chances of employees becoming negatively affected by student debt. Whether partial or full, tuition reimbursement supports students in the pursuit of higher education without having to take out so much in student loans.
• Career Advancement Opportunities – Working for a company that helps you pay for your tuition can not only show your ambitions, but it can also help your employer invest in your potential as an employee and open doors for advancement in the workplace.
• Increased Earning Potential – After completing your degree with the help of your employer, you have the potential to reach higher salary rates.
• Reduce Financial Stress – Without the pressure and burden of paying back student loans, employees can remain focused on their careers and stress-free.
• Employee Satisfaction – With your company supporting your aspirations, it becomes easier to create a positive work environment where both employer and employee are satisfied.

In general, college degrees and higher education can be beneficial—read more about why college is important to decide if it's worthwhile for you.

Employer

• Tax Breaks – depending on the program structure, companies can be eligible for tax deductions related to tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Development – Employers can invest in building more skilled and capable workers in-house.
• Employee Longevity – With assistance programs like this, employees are more likely to remain loyal to the company.
• Employee Engagement – The happier the employee, the more motivated and likely to stay engaged in their work.

Tuition reimbursement helps everyone involved. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with your company’s assistance program requirements so you know what you can and cannot expect.

15 Companies That Offer Tuition Reimbursement Programs

There are many companies out there that support their employees' educational priorities through financial assistance. I’ve gathered a list of the most reputable businesses that offer to help their employees cover their college costs. Take a look:

Amazon

In 2012, Amazon launched its Career Choice program that pre-pays part or all tuition for employed students. The program offers career coaching, opportunities for further training, and new certificates. Employees must work at Amazon for 90 days before being eligible to apply for the program.

Apple

Apple’s tuition assistance program is designed to offer full-time employees tuition and all other costs and expenses reimbursed for up to $5,250 per year. However, they must work at least 20 hours a week or be enrolled in degree programs that apply to their position at Apple.

AT&T

AT&T offers educational cost assistance to both part-time and full-time employees. After 60 days, employees are eligible to receive a maximum of $5,250 annually. All degree programs must be approved by the company as well.

Bank of America

BOA provides up to $7,500 (up to $5,250 tax-free) annual reimbursement for eligible undergraduate or graduate students at a number of universities, plus free unlimited individual academic advisory services.

Best Buy

Full-time Best Buy employees will receive an exclusive 10% tuition scholarship for certificates, as well as undergraduate and graduate programs at Arizona State University Online. In addition, eligible Best Buy employees may receive $3,500 per calendar year for any undergraduate degree and $5,250 per calendar year for graduate degree tuition reimbursement.

Capital One

Full-time and part-time employees are eligible for up to $5,250 per year in tuition coverage. Employees can also choose to receive the tuition cost up-front, meaning there's potential to advance academically for little to no out-of-pocket costs for the employee. This assistance is available to cover costs at over 200 selected schools and programs through the Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions Education Network.

CVS

Calling all pharmacy techs! The CVS Health PharmD tuition assistance program is available to all CVS Pharmacy interns, which covers a $20,000 per year reimbursement. The new CVS Health/American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Community Pharmacy Health Equity Award will grant $20,000 to 21 need-based student pharmacists.

Disney

Disney Aspire is an educational reimbursement program for eligible Disney employees that covers up to $5,250 for tuition and other college-related fees. Coaching and support is provided throughout the program.

Fidelity

Full-time employees can receive tuition assistance for up to 90% of education costs, with a maximum of $10,000 per year. The employee must have worked at least six months at the company and be enrolled in a program related to their position at the company.

McDonald’s

The Archways to Opportunity at McDonald’s offers aid to eligible employees for course expenses like tuition and related fees that are not covered by scholarships or grants. Employees must be enrolled at an approved college or university, business, technical or vocational school, graduate, or post-graduate school. After 90 days, employees are eligible for $3000 each year if they work 30 hours/week or $2500 each year if they work 15 hours/week.

Publix

Publix offers tuition reimbursement for up to $4,000 annually, with a $16,000 maximum limit at an approved college or university. For occupational/technical programs or undergraduate programs while attending a two-year school or community college, employees can receive up to a maximum of $2,200 annually, a $4,400 maximum limit.

Below are some of the undergraduate programs/majors approved in the reimbursement program:

• Business Management
• Economics
• Human Resources
• Marketing/Advertising
• Supply Chain Management

Reimbursement for graduate degrees is also available.

Looking for other ways to attend college with heavy discounts or for free? Read our guide on unpacking free college tuition.

How to Find Jobs with Tuition Reimbursement

When it comes to financial opportunities for college, some of our biggest obstacles are not knowing who to speak to or where to go outside of the internet, but I can assure you there are a few resources you can tap into when looking for a job that offers tuition assistance. Here’s how to start your search:

• Research Companies with Tuition Reimbursement Programs
• Check Job Listings and Company Websites
• Network with Current Employees and Alumni
• Attend Job Fairs
• Look for Companies that Aligns with Your Degree Program

Remember to review a company’s job listings and website(s) to verify if they offer tuition reimbursement programs or a college achievement plan. Knowing you have resources makes the process that much easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuition Reimbursement Jobs

Is employer tuition reimbursement worth it?

Typically, the answer is yes. Even if you feel satisfied with the role you currently have, tuition reimbursement can help you upskill and advance, setting you up for promotions later on. Tuition reimbursement jobs are an investment in your future. Considering where you want to be in a few years can help you decide if these education programs are right for you.

What are the cons of tuition reimbursement?

In general, there are usually more pros than cons for tuition reimbursement as these programs significantly cut down the cost of school. However, something to consider is that you'll likely be expected to remain at the company for some time after completing the program. The exact contractual parameters of each program will vary between companies, so be sure to check. If you don't see yourself staying at this company long-term, tuition reimbursement may put you in an awkward position, so think about the long game as well.

What is the best job for tuition reimbursement?

The best job for tuition reimbursement is the one that supports your professional endeavors. It’s easy to simply rely on the monetary value of the assistance, but you want to take your future into consideration. Ask yourself questions like: Will their investment towards my degree earn me a high salary? Can I see myself in the company long-term? These questions will lead you to the best job for you.

Find more help articles on navigating student loans and going back to school on Bold.org's scholarship blog!