Free Tuition for Starbucks Employees Through New Program

It’s no secret, college is expensive. For many, that expense has simply gotten too high. College tuition has risen 80 percent in the last 10 years alone. This increase means that some people can’t go to college, or complete their degree, no matter how much they desire to. Starbucks has decided to do something about this problem, and announced the Starbucks College Plan earlier this week.

Starting in the fall, Starbucks will help many of their part- and full-time U.S. partners (employees) complete their college degrees. Through a partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), Starbucks will allow its partners to finish their bachelor’s degree with full tuition reimbursement.

Partners will be able to choose from 40 undergraduate programs at ASU, delivered online. There are no restrictions on location or age of the participants in the college program; though it is only offered through ASU.
When asked why they chose ASU as their partner, Starbucks said, “ASU’s mission, values and brand are a good match to our own. Arizona State is the only University that could stand side-by-side with Starbucks to offer a high-quality education, at scale, to all of our U.S. partners. Plus, ASU is ranked the second most innovative school in the country by U.S. News & World Report, and ranks 5th in the U.S. in producing the best-qualified graduates. Starbucks is proud to join with an academic institution that recognizes the need for innovation to offer more people a shot at a quality higher education, and the freedom to pursue their passions in any field.”
Starbucks isn’t limiting its college program to any sub-section of employees, all benefits-eligible partners who are based in the United States can participate. This includes those working in support centers, plants, or any of the Starbucks company-operated stores (including Teavana, La Boulange, Evolution Fresh, and Seattle’s Best Coffee), who do not yet have a bachelor’s degree.
If the partners are admitted to ASU as juniors or seniors, they will earn full tuition reimbursement for each year of coursework they complete towards earning their degree. Those entering as freshmen and sophomores will receive a partial scholarship and need-based financial aid. After graduation, the partners do not have to retain a commitment to Starbucks.
In addition to financial aid, each partner who participates in Starbucks College Program will receive support in other areas. They will be matched with an enrollment coach, financial aid counselor, and academic advisor to help them as they pursue their bachelor’s degree.
Video from Starbucks Coffee
Also Read:
What are We Going to do About Student Debt?
Food Insecurity Impacting More Students as College Expenses Rise
Federal Minimum Wage Increase is Good for Students