How To Find Employers Who Pay For College Classes

Going back to school doesn’t have to mean going into debt. Many employers now offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs that cover all or part of your college expenses, whether you’re earning your first degree, finishing one you started, or pursuing graduate or professional development courses. If you’re strategic, you can even get your degree for free while building your career. Here’s how to find employers who pay for college classes and how to make the most of these opportunities.

1. Start With Big-Name Companies Known for Tuition Assistance

Several large U.S. companies have well-established programs that pay for employees to earn college credits, certifications, and degrees. Some even cover 100% of tuition upfront. Here are a few examples:

• Amazon – Through its Career Choice program, Amazon pre-pays up to 100% of tuition, fees, and textbooks for associate and bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields.
• Starbucks – Partners with Arizona State University’s online program to offer full tuition coverage for eligible employees.
• Target – Offers debt-free degrees and certificates at select schools, covering tuition, fees, and textbooks for most programs.
• Walmart – Covers 100% of college tuition and books for employees who pursue degrees through its Live Better U program.
• Chipotle – Pays up to $5,250 per year for tuition reimbursement and offers full tuition coverage for select degrees through Guild Education.
• UPS – Offers up to $25,000 in lifetime tuition assistance, even for part-time employees.
• Home Depot – Provides up to $5,000 in annual tuition assistance depending on employment status.
• FedEx – Offers up to $5,250 per year in tuition reimbursement for eligible team members.

These programs are constantly evolving, so check the careers or benefits section of each company’s website for current details.

2. Check Employer Partnerships With Online Universities

Many companies partner with online education providers like Guild Education, InStride, and EdAssist, which help connect employees with accredited colleges offering discounted or free tuition.

If you’re already employed, ask your HR department whether your company has such a partnership. You might be eligible without even realizing it. If you’re job hunting, look for companies that promote “education benefits” or “career growth programs” in their listings.

3. Search for Jobs That Mention Tuition Assistance

When browsing job boards, include keywords like:

• “tuition reimbursement”
• “education benefits”
• “college assistance”
• “student loan repayment”
• “career development program”

Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often list benefits in job descriptions. You can even filter your search by company perks or check employee reviews to see how easy it is to actually use these benefits.

4. Explore Government and Public Service Jobs

Federal, state, and local government agencies often offer tuition assistance or student loan forgiveness programs. Examples include:

• Federal agencies like the Department of Defense or Homeland Security often reimburse employees for approved degree programs.
• Public schools and universities frequently provide tuition waivers or discounted tuition for employees and sometimes for their families.
• Public service jobs may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program after 10 years of qualifying payments.

5. Don’t Overlook Smaller Companies

While big corporations make headlines, many smaller businesses also offer tuition reimbursement as a way to attract and retain talent. Ask about it during interviews. Sometimes the benefit isn’t advertised publicly. You can also suggest it as part of a negotiation package, especially if your role directly relates to the education you’re pursuing.

6. Understand the Fine Print

Before enrolling, make sure you understand your company’s rules. Common requirements include:

• Maintaining a certain grade (often a B or higher).
• Working a minimum number of hours per week.
• Staying employed with the company for a set time after completing the course.
• Choosing an accredited institution or approved program.

Some companies pay tuition upfront, while others reimburse you after you complete the class and submit receipts and grades.

7. Combine Employer Benefits With Other Resources

Even if your employer doesn’t cover everything, you can stack funding sources to minimize out-of-pocket costs:

• Apply for grants and scholarships (they don’t have to be repaid).
• Use CLEP or DSST exams to test out of classes for free or at a low cost.
• Take advantage of work-study programs or employer partnerships with local colleges.

8. Where to Learn More

If you’re ready to explore, start with:

• The U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop.org, which lists employer education benefits.

• Employer review sites like Glassdoor for real-world feedback from employees using tuition assistance programs.

Final Thoughts

Finding an employer who pays for college classes is one of the smartest ways to earn a degree debt-free. Whether you’re starting fresh, finishing what you started, or leveling up your career, the right employer can help you reach your educational goals without emptying your wallet.