Walmart Tuition Reimbursement & Scholarships For Employees 2025

Walmart is one of the many companies that pay for college. Live Better U is an education benefit that Walmart employees can utilize to advance their education. Employees can develop the skills needed to advance in their careers through this tuition assistance program, without having to pay for tuition costs.

Walmart partners with accredited schools and universities so employees can pursue higher education while working for the company. It prepares employees for more advanced positions, such as store managers, but does not require a commitment to stay with the company.

Whether you're interested in completing a professional certificate, earning a high school diploma, or pursuing a free college degree, Live Better U can financially support your education journey.

Does Walmart Offer Tuition Reimbursement?

Rather than reimbursing tuition expenses, like a traditional tuition reimbursement program, Walmart's Live Better U program completely pays for its employees' education. The program provides upfront financial assistance to help cover tuition costs, so associates don't need to pay out of pocket and wait for tuition reimbursement.

Understanding How Live Better U Works

As a tuition assistance program, Live Better U provides Walmart employees access to fully covered high-quality education programs. Employees can sign up for the program's college tuition assistance starting on their first day, making it a great option for those looking to further their careers within, or outside of, Walmart.

Tuition Assistance

Live Better U's tuition assistance covers 100% of tuition expenses so employees who attend one of the eligible programs can avoid out-of-pocket costs. The program's financial assistance is applied after federal and state financial aid to cover remaining education expenses.

Eligibility

Eligibility for Live Better U begins on your first day as a Walmart employee or Sam's Club associate for part-time and full-time positions. If you are eligible for Live Better U, you can access numerous educational programs from high school completion courses to business administration degrees.

The program requires you to attend one of the many schools that partner with Walmart such as Purdue University Global, the University of Denver, the University of Arizona, and Wilmington University. However, if you already have a bachelor's degree or are working as a salaried associate in an area other than a field facility then you aren't eligible.

Are Part-Time Workers Eligible?

Yes, part-time employees are eligible if they meet the other qualifying criteria. The Live Better U program encourages Walmart associates to pursue their education while working, whether they're full-time or part-time employees.

What Educational Programs Does Live Better U Cover?

Live Better U covers a variety of educational programs, including high school completion, college degrees, and certificates. Employees can also attend ACT/SAT prep courses and English language learning programs through the program.

Live Better U focuses on fields that align with Walmart's careers and future job market demands, it covers programs that prepare employees for positions in the company such as store management, supply chain and transportation, human resources, and cybersecurity roles.

Academic Support

In addition to covering tuition, Live Better U also offers personalized academic support. When employees sign up for the program through Walmart's Guild Education portal, they work with a student coach. Student coaches can help employees choose a program that fits their goals and provide guidance about balancing work with school responsibilities.

Partnerships With Academic Institutions

Walmart partners with several accredited universities to provide a wide range of academic programs that meet the needs of its employees while also preparing them for jobs within the company.

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers flexible online bachelor's degrees. Walmart employees can take advantage of the school's marketing, supply chain management, and applied computing programs. Additionally, the Live Better U program pays for certificates through the university, such as the data science certificate.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers Walmart associates online degree programs in subjects like business administration and computer science. SNHU's flexible programs are designed to be accessible to working adults, allowing employees to effectively balance their work with their education.

Bellevue University

Bellevue University is another partner in the Live Better U program. It offers degree programs in fields like business and supply chain management and certificates in business leadership. Bellevue's programs are fully online and flexible to allow working adults to complete degrees while employed.

Preferred Career Paths

Live Better U not only helps associates earn degrees but also supports career growth within the company. It focuses on educational programs that align with Walmart's internal career paths, allowing associates to move up in the company or transition into new roles.

Store Management

For employees looking to move into leadership positions, Live Better U offers programs in business management and leadership. These degrees and certificates help associates prepare for roles in store management and other high-level roles within Walmart.

Human Resources

Walmart also provides tuition assistance for degrees in human resources for employees interested in pursuing HR roles within the company. These programs focus on employee relations, training, and organizational development.

Computer Science

Because technology plays an important role in retail, Walmart offers support for degrees in computer science. Employees interested in pursuing tech careers within Walmart can benefit from these programs, preparing them for roles in IT and data management.

Are You Required To Continue Working at Walmart After Graduating?

Walmart does not require employees to stay with the company after completing their education through Live Better U. However, the program is designed to help associates grow within the company, offering opportunities for advancement that can lead to long-term careers with Walmart. Even though it isn't required, many associates continue working at Walmart due to the career development opportunities available.

Is Walmart Flexible With College Students?

Walmart offers flexible scheduling options for employees who are pursuing their education. Employees participating in Live Better U can often adjust their work schedules to accommodate their academic needs. With the additional flexibility of online degree and certificate programs, employees can more effectively balance their work and school responsibilities.