MCPS Tuition Reimbursement & Educational Benefits 2026

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) invests heavily in educator development. Through negotiated agreements and formal university partnerships, eligible employees can receive tuition reimbursement for approved coursework and participate in structured teacher preparation programs.

Unlike many private employers, MCPS tuition benefits are governed by collective bargaining agreements. That means eligibility, funding limits, and grade requirements follow specific contract terms.

Tuition Reimbursement at Montgomery County Public Schools

MCPS provides tuition reimbursement for approved coursework completed at accredited institutions, as long as the coursework aligns with an employee’s professional responsibilities and district priorities. The program is governed by negotiated agreements, which outline specific funding limits, grade requirements, and eligibility standards.

Eligible employees may receive reimbursement for up to nine credit hours per fiscal year. To qualify, employees must earn a minimum grade of B in each course. Reimbursement applies to tuition only and does not cover books, student fees, or other related expenses.

After completing a course, employees must submit official transcripts and proof of payment through the Professional Development Online (PDO) system. All reimbursement requests must be filed within 60 days of course completion. Because the program operates under contractual guidelines, reimbursement is not automatic and must follow established application procedures.

Who Is Eligible?

Tuition reimbursement is available to:

• Permanent MCPS employees
• Employees who work at least 20 hours per week
• Employees covered under negotiated agreements

Eligibility may vary slightly depending on bargaining unit and contract terms. Employees should confirm eligibility status before enrolling in coursework.

How to Apply for MCPS Tuition Reimbursement

Employees must use the district’s Professional Development Online (PDO) system. Follow these steps:

1. Log Into PDO: Access the Professional Development Online system using your MCPS credentials.
2. Submit a Tuition Reimbursement Request: Complete the required reimbursement request forms in PDO before or shortly after course enrollment.
3. Complete the Course: Earn a final grade of B or higher.
4. Upload Required Documentation: Submit official transcripts and proof of tuition payment within 60 days of course completion.
5. Monitor Email for Confirmation: MCPS will communicate approval or follow-up requests through email.

Failure to meet deadlines may result in denial of reimbursement.

Teacher Preparation Partnerships

In addition to reimbursement, MCPS partners with select universities to help employees earn Maryland teaching certification in high-need subject areas.

These programs are cohort-based and may include structured pathways in areas such as:

• Special education
• Elementary education
• Secondary science
• World languages
• ESOL
• Computer science

Partner institutions have included:

• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Maryland
• Towson University
• Notre Dame of Maryland University
• Montgomery College
• Moreland University

Participation in these programs does not automatically mean full tuition coverage. Funding and eligibility depend on agreement terms and district priorities.

Continuing Education Partnerships for Certified Teachers

MCPS also partners with universities to support current teachers pursuing advanced degrees or graduate certificates.

These partnerships may include:

• Master of Education programs
• Reading specialization
• Special education
• Mathematics education
• TESOL
• Dyslexia certification

Reimbursement for these programs remains subject to the nine-credit annual limit and grade requirements.

How MCPS Compares With Other School Systems

Public school systems structure tuition benefits differently than private employers.

MCPS vs. Prince George’s County Public Schools

Prince George’s County Public Schools also offers tuition reimbursement for professional development coursework. Both districts limit reimbursement by credit hours and require minimum grades, though funding structures may differ by contract year.

MCPS vs. Baltimore County Public Schools

Baltimore County provides tuition reimbursement tied to negotiated agreements similar to MCPS. However, credit caps and grade requirements may vary slightly depending on bargaining unit.

MCPS vs. Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools offers reimbursement for coursework related to employee assignments. Compared to Fairfax, MCPS clearly outlines a nine-credit annual cap and B-grade requirement.

Key Things to Consider

Before enrolling in coursework under the MCPS tuition reimbursement program, keep these points in mind:

• Reimbursement is capped at nine credit hours per fiscal year.
• A minimum grade of B is required.
• Tuition only is covered — not books or fees.
• Applications must be submitted within 60 days of course completion.
• Benefits are governed by negotiated agreements and may change with contract updates.

Confirm eligibility and funding availability before committing to a program.

FAQs About MCPS Tuition Reimbursement

The following frequently asked questions should help you better understand tuition reimbursement accessibility and eligibility.

How Much Does MCPS Reimburse for Tuition?

MCPS reimburses tuition for up to nine credit hours per fiscal year. The specific reimbursement amount depends on negotiated agreement terms and available funding.

Does MCPS Pay for Master’s Degrees?

Master’s-level coursework may qualify if it aligns with professional responsibilities and meets eligibility guidelines. Reimbursement remains subject to credit limits and grade requirements.

Are Part-Time Employees Eligible?

Permanent employees who work at least 20 hours per week may qualify. Eligibility is determined by employment status and bargaining unit coverage.

What Happens If I Earn Below a B?

Courses completed with a grade below B typically do not qualify for reimbursement. Employees should confirm grading requirements before enrolling.

Does MCPS Cover Books or Fees?

MCPS tuition reimbursement applies to tuition only and does not include books, student fees, or other related expenses.

Discover Online Degrees Today

Don't forget that tuition reimbursement is available for many online degree programs across the country. Learn.org encourages you to investigate the most affordable and reputable online degrees, especially those you can finance through several corporate tuition reimbursement programs.