Hey job seekers! You’ll be happy to hear that a tight job market means employers are trying hard to win you over. That means more perks and benefits as competition stays fierce. And one of the best perks is having your employer pay for your college education – either fully or partially.
We’ve done some digging and found a handful of companies that will cover your entire college tab! While more common are schemes that reimburse or contribute a capped yearly amount towards a degree at a technical school, community college, or four-year college. So, to make your life easier, we’ve rounded up a list of ten companies that can help you pay for your college education, along with some details about each perk.
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Average Cost of College Tuition
Before we dive into the list, it’s worth noting that college isn’t cheap. According to The Education Data Initiative, tuition and fees at public universities average around $10,000 for in-state students and $27,000 for out-of-state students during the 2021/2022 academic year. Private colleges come with an even higher price tag – around $38,000 for the same academic year.
But that’s just the cost of tuition; what about the cost of attendance?
Average College Attendance Costs
Attendance differs from tuition – this includes the cost of books and supplies, transportation, room, and board (if you live on campus or nearby), personal expenses, and any other fees associated with college. The average cost of attendance for in-state students ranges from $20,000-$26,000 per year. For out-of-state students at public universities, attendance costs range from $35,000-$44,000. Private institutions bring the cost of attendance up to an average of $50,000-$56,000 per year.
So, now that you know what you’re dealing with regarding college costs – let’s get into the list!
10 Companies That Will Pay You to Go to College
Now that you understand the gravity of college expenses, you might think this is all just a pipe dream. But some companies out there will pay for your college tuition! Here are ten companies to help you pay for your higher education.
WM or Waste Management
Waste Management is shaking things up with its latest announcement – a significant partnership with Guild. They’re putting their money where their mouth is and are footing the bill for full-time employees and their families to earn a degree. That’s right – college became much more accessible for Waste Management’s 36,000 staff members in the States. They offer over 170 programs, from bachelor’s degrees to business certificates. But it doesn’t stop there – even high school completion is on the table. Talk about investing in your team!
In 2022, WM decided to step up its game and offer a fantastic opportunity for its employees and spouses aged between 18 and 26. Over 34,000 people can enroll in education programs from top-notch partners, including Paul Quinn College, Purdue University Global, and the University of Arizona. Not only that, but WM is also teaming up with eCornell, Pathstream, and Southern New Hampshire University. It’s a win-win situation. What are you waiting for? Start planning your college journey now!
Amazon
Are you an Amazon associate with a passion for learning? Take advantage of Amazon’s Career Choice program! This amazing initiative provides associates with full tuition support for pursuing their education. From high school diplomas to bachelor’s degrees and even English as a second language (ESL) proficiency certifications.
Plus, if you’re interested in studying aircraft mechanics, welding, medical billing, nursing, or other fields, the program also provides funding for those courses. And the best part? You’re eligible for this opportunity after only 90 days of employment. Start investing in your future today with Amazon’s Career Choice program!
Disney
Disney’s Aspire program offers full-time and part-time hourly U.S. workers the opportunity to earn their bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Participants can receive coverage for 100% of tuition costs upfront. The program partners with reputable universities such as the University of Central Florida, Cal State Fullerton, and North Carolina A&T State University.
Disney’s Aspire program is available to all hourly employees who have completed their first 90 days of employment. In addition, Disney offers coverage for textbooks and high school diploma programs. This unique benefit is a true employee perk, as the company pays the schools directly. No more waiting for reimbursement or coming up with the money upfront. For those seeking career advancement and educational growth, Disney has you covered.
Chipotle
Chipotle offers its part-time and full-time workers unique opportunities to obtain tuition-free college degrees and reimbursement programs. This benefit applies to all regular full-time employees and most part-time workers. To qualify for this program, you must have worked at Chipotle for a minimum of 120 days for at least 15 hours per week. With Chipotle’s education benefits portal, you can achieve your academic goals while earning an income.
Benefits of working for Chipotle include the opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate’s or bachelor’s degree in majors such as agricultural science, hospitality, and supply chain management. Partnering with Guild, the company offers upfront tuition payment programs at several universities, including the University of Arizona, Bellevue University, UMass Global, Southern New Hampshire University, and Wilmington University, all of which provide online degree options.
Starbucks
Not only does Starbucks serve up your favorite caramel macchiato, but they also provide financial assistance for college education. Through their Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP), employees in the United States can access online bachelor’s degrees from Arizona State University.
Launched in 2015, the SCAP is available to all eligible employees nationwide following a minimum of 240 total work hours over three full, consecutive months. Starbucks is paving the way for employee education assistance programs and investing in the future success of its workforce.
Get your degree from Arizona State University completely free of cost! With over 100 online degrees to choose from, ASU is giving students who enroll in their SCAP program a 42% scholarship. To sweeten the deal, fill out the FAFSA as part of the program to receive further financial aid. What’s more, Starbucks will pay any remaining tuition costs!
Boeing
Boeing’s education support program is a fantastic opportunity for those pursuing a college degree or certificate program in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program partners with over 300 schools across the United States, such as the prestigious Villanova University, the University of Washington, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and reimburses 100% of tuition fees for eligible courses.
Additionally, Boeing offers a generous financial package of up to $25,000 annually for graduate studies in multiple fields. What’s more impressive is there is no annual cap on STEM degrees and certificates at their partner schools, making this opportunity even more appealing to those looking to enhance their education and career prospects.
Walmart
Did you know that Walmart is the largest employer in the United States, with roughly 2.3 million workers? As part of its Live Better U program, eligible part- and full-time hourly associates can earn specific degrees at leading partner universities without the burden of tuition costs.
Through this initiative, Walmart covers the cost of higher education upfront, making it easier for associates to pursue their academic goals. In the past, employees were required to pay $1 per day for their education; however, the retailer now covers the full tuition cost.
The program partners with renowned universities such as Purdue University Global, UMass Global, and Bellevue University, which offer diverse degrees. These schools are carefully selected for their academic excellence and student-focused approach, ensuring associates receive the best learning experience possible.
According to a spokesperson from Walmart, employees who reside near a partner university can opt for in-person attendance. However, the majority prefer online courses. The benefits of Live Better U extend to discounted master’s degrees, complimentary foreign language lessons, and bachelor’s programs. Qualified staff members can also share these valuable perks with their loved ones.
Chipotle
Chipotle’s tuition reimbursement program covers degrees in various areas, including agriculture, hospitality, and culinary arts. Eligible employees may receive up to $5,252 per year in tuition reimbursement.
T-Mobile
As a T-Mobile employee, you have access to generous educational benefits. Full-time employees are eligible for up to $5,250, and part-timers for up to $2,500 to pay for courses at schools of their choice. Additionally, T-Mobile has partnered with five renowned universities – Ashford University, Capella University, Colorado Technical University, Kaplan, and the University of Phoenix – to provide full tuition coverage for online degree programs. Take advantage of these valuable opportunities to invest in your future and enhance your career.
Papa Johns
Are you looking to pursue higher education while working part-time? Papa John’s has got you covered with its Dough & Degrees program. This tuition reimbursement program offers 100% reimbursement to eligible employees at select corporate-owned and franchise locations who work at least 20 hours a week for at least 90 days. You can learn and earn simultaneously with access to 180 online degrees from Purdue University or the University of Maryland. Apply now to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
Discover
Discover, the credit card company, goes above and beyond by providing their employees with tuition assistance for select associate and bachelor’s degrees upfront through their partnership with Guild. Top universities like the University of Arizona, Wilmington University, and Ohio University are included. Additionally, eligible employees can receive up to $5,250 for bachelor’s degrees and up to $10,000 annually for master’s degrees at approved in-network schools. Invest in your education with Discover Card.
Companies that Offer Some Tuition Reimbursement
While the companies listed above pay for full or partial tuition upfront, other employers offer tuition reimbursement.
Home Depot
Home Depot offers up to $5,000 in tuition reimbursement for eligible full-time associates. This benefit covers course materials, fees, and the cost of tuition at accredited colleges or universities. Additionally, Home Depot offers free online education through its Learning Center. With over 2,000 courses in 5 major skill areas, you can boost your career prospects without additional costs.
UPS
UPS offers a tuition reimbursement program for eligible employees. They provide up to $25,000 over four years of college and cover courses in qualifying subject areas. Employees must be full-time or part-time with at least two of continuous employment to take advantage of this program. From business administration to engineering, there’s something for everyone at UPS.
CVS Health
CVS Health offers generous tuition reimbursement for eligible associates. Full-time and part-time employees may receive up to $5,250 per calendar year with a lifetime maximum of $25,000. With access to more than 2,500 accredited universities and colleges worldwide, CVS is an ideal way to jumpstart your education and career.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo offers a tuition assistance program for eligible employees. Depending on the type of degree and number of credits taken, employees may be able to receive up to $5,000 per calendar year toward qualifying courses from accredited universities and colleges. From bachelor’s to master’s degrees, there is something for everyone at Wells Fargo.
Bank of America
Bank of America offers a tuition reimbursement program for their employees. Eligible associates may receive up to $5,000 annually and a maximum of $20,000 over four years. With access to 2,500 accredited institutions worldwide, you can take advantage of the educational resources Bank of America offers.
KFC
KFC acknowledges the importance of education and offers its employees a REACH scholarship. With 11 $20,000 scholarships and hundreds of $5,000 and $2,500 scholarships available, KFC employees can choose to attend a two-year or four-year college, trade or vocational school, or pursue graduate degree programs. In addition to the scholarship, the recipients will benefit from a mentorship program that aligns with their chosen degree program. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to advance your career at KFC. Apply for a REACH scholarship now.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to break the bank to get a college degree. Take advantage of major companies’ valuable opportunities and invest in your future. With tuition assistance, you can reduce the burden of student loans and gain access to quality education with minimal out-of-pocket costs. Look into these ten companies that pay for college and take control of your career today!
Key Takeaways:
- Employers are offering more and more benefits to attract top workers, including tuition assistance.
- Ten companies, from Papa John’s to Wells Fargo, offer tuition reimbursement or full tuition assistance.
- Employees can receive up to $5,000 per year toward courses from accredited universities and colleges.
- Invest in your future today by taking advantage of these valuable opportunities!
Source:
Average Cost of College 2023, educationdata.org
