WGU Tuition Reimbursement & Scholarships 2025

Learn about WGU tuition reimbursement, including what's covered, scholarship opportunities, and the steps to apply for employer-sponsored tuition benefits.

<p>If you're considering furthering your education while managing your career, Western Governors University (WGU) tuition reimbursement programs offer a practical pathway for working professionals. Many <a href="https://learn.org/articles/companies_that_offer_tuition_reimbursement.html">companies that offer tuition reimbursement</a> view employee education as a valuable investment, and Western Governors University (WGU) is a popular choice for those utilizing such benefits. Below, we will walk you through the specifics of tuition reimbursement at WGU, including eligibility, coverage, available scholarships, and the application process. </p> <h2 id="section---DoesWGUOfferTuitionReimbursement"> Does WGU Offer Tuition Reimbursement?</h2> <p>WGU itself does not directly offer tuition reimbursement in the way an employer might. Instead, WGU is a highly popular and affordable choice for students who are utilizing employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs. Many companies have policies in place to help employees pay for higher education, and WGU's competency-based, flat-rate tuition model aligns well with these benefits. </p> <p>Additionally, WGU offers a substantial tuition discount for its own employees and their eligible family members (75% for employees, 50% for family members) to support their professional development and educational goals. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatCompaniesDoesWGUWorkWithForTuitionReimbursement"> What Companies Does WGU Work With For Tuition Reimbursement?</h2> <p>While WGU partners with a vast network of organizations, they don't publicly list every company that offers tuition reimbursement for their programs, as the benefit is often managed directly by the employer. </p> <p>However, several prominent companies are known to work with WGU for tuition reimbursement. Notably, the KFC Foundation offers 100% tuition coverage for eligible KFC restaurant employees. Anthem (now Elevance Health) has also partnered with WGU to provide significant discounts and scholarships to its employees. Others include: </p> <ul><li>Amazon </li><li>Raytheon </li><li>HCA/Parallon </li><li>Sofi </li><li>Walmart </li><li>Target </li><li>Publix </li></ul><h2 id="section---EducationRequirementsForWGUPrograms"> Education Requirements for WGU Programs</h2> <p>WGU is an accredited online university offering a competency-based education model. This means that instead of traditional semesters, students advance by demonstrating mastery of subject matter. </p> <p>WGU offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's degrees across four colleges: Business, Teachers College, Health Professions, and Information Technology. While specific program requirements vary, generally, prospective students need a high school diploma or GED for undergraduate programs, and a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution for graduate programs. Some programs may have additional prerequisites, such as specific work experience or certifications. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatSCoveredUnderWGUTuitionReimbursementPlans"> What's Covered Under WGU Tuition Reimbursement Plans?</h2> <p>Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement plans partnering with WGU are designed to cover most, if not all, of your tuition costs. For many WGU programs, annual tuition is less than $8,300. These plans typically cover tuition fees for any WGU degree program. </p> <p>It's important to note that while WGU's programs are affordable, the specifics of what your employer's plan covers (e.g., books, fees, technology) will depend entirely on your company's individual policy. Always consult with your employer's HR or benefits department to understand the full scope of your corporate tuition reimbursement plan. </p> <h2 id="section---WGUScholarshipsAndOtherFinancialAid"> WGU Scholarships and Other Financial Aid</h2> <p>Beyond corporate tuition reimbursement, WGU offers various financial aid options to help make education accessible. WGU scholarships are available through several programs, including institutional partner funds. </p> <p>These scholarships can further reduce the financial burden of pursuing your degree. It's highly recommended that prospective students explore all available scholarship opportunities offered directly by WGU, as well as external scholarships they may qualify for. Additionally, students can explore federal financial aid options, such as grants and student loans, if needed. </p> <h3 id="section---StepsToApplyForTuitionReimbursementAtWGU"> Steps To Apply for Tuition Reimbursement at WGU</h3> <p>The process for applying for tuition reimbursement generally involves coordination between you, your employer, and WGU. Here are the typical steps: </p> <p><b>1. Understand your employer's policy:</b> Before enrolling, thoroughly review your company's tuition reimbursement policy. Pay close attention to eligibility criteria, approved programs, academic performance requirements, application deadlines, and the reimbursement process (e.g., upfront payment versus reimbursement after course completion). </p> <p><b>2. Apply to WGU:</b> Complete the WGU admissions process for your chosen degree program. Once admitted, you'll work with an enrollment counselor to get started. </p> <p><b>3. Notify your employer:</b> Inform your employer's HR or benefits department of your intention to enroll at WGU and utilize their tuition reimbursement program. They will likely require documentation, such as an acceptance letter or course registration. </p> <p><b>4. Submit required documentation to your employer:</b> As you progress through your WGU program, you will typically need to provide your employer with proof of enrollment, grades, and tuition receipts for reimbursement. </p> <p><b>5. Maintain academic progress:</b> Many tuition reimbursement programs require you to maintain a certain GPA or successfully complete courses to be eligible for reimbursement. WGU's competency-based model means demonstrating mastery, so focus on successfully completing your competencies. </p> <h2 id="section---FAQsAboutTuitionReimbursementAtWGU"> FAQs About Tuition Reimbursement at WGU</h2> <p>Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about utilizing tuition reimbursement benefits for pursuing a degree at Western Governors University. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatTypesOfDegreesCanIPursueWithTuitionReimbursementAtWGU"> What Types Of Degrees Can I Pursue With Tuition Reimbursement At WGU?</h3> <p>You can pursue both bachelor's and master's degrees, all designed for working adults. Your employer's tuition reimbursement plan typically covers tuition for any of these WGU degree programs. However, it's essential to confirm with your employer that your chosen program aligns with their approved fields of study or career development goals. </p> <h2 id="section---HowMuchTuitionReimbursementCanYouExpect"> How Much Tuition Reimbursement Can You Expect?</h2> <p>The amount of tuition reimbursement offered will vary by employer. However, many companies' tuition assistance benefits are substantial enough to cover the majority, if not the entirety, of WGU's relatively affordable tuition. </p> <h3 id="section---DoesWGUOfferAnyFinancialAidBeyondEmployerReimbursement"> Does WGU Offer Any Financial Aid Beyond Employer Reimbursement?</h3> <p>Beyond employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement, WGU provides various financial aid options to help students. This includes a range of WGU scholarships, some of which are specifically for institutional partners. </p> <p>Additionally, WGU students may be eligible for federal financial aid programs like grants and student loans. It's advisable to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for these additional forms of assistance, complementing your employer's benefits. </p> <h3 id="section---AreThereAnyAcademicPerformanceRequirementsForTuitionReimbursement"> Are There Any Academic Performance Requirements For Tuition Reimbursement?</h3> <p>Most employer tuition reimbursement programs require you to meet certain academic performance standards to qualify for reimbursement. This often means maintaining a specific GPA or successfully completing your courses. </p> <p>At WGU, given its competency-based model, the requirement typically translates to successfully demonstrating mastery of your course competencies. It's crucial to review your employer's specific policy regarding academic performance, as failing to meet these standards could impact your eligibility for reimbursement for that term or course. </p> <h3 id="section---HowLongDoesTheTuitionReimbursementProcessTypicallyTake"> How Long Does The Tuition Reimbursement Process Typically Take?</h3> <p>The duration of the tuition reimbursement process largely depends on your employer's internal procedures and payment cycles. Some companies might offer upfront payment directly to WGU, while others operate on a reimbursement model, requiring you to pay tuition first and then submit documentation for repayment after course completion. </p> <p>The time it takes to receive reimbursement can vary from a few weeks to several months after you submit your proof of completion and grades. Always clarify the timeline and required documentation with your employer's HR or benefits department well in advance. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIUseTuitionReimbursementForCertificateProgramsAtWGU"> Can I Use Tuition Reimbursement For Certificate Programs At WGU?</h3> <p>Yes, in many cases, employer tuition reimbursement plans can be utilized for certificate programs offered at WGU, in addition to full degree programs. This depends entirely on the specifics of your employer's policy. </p> <p>Some companies broaden their educational benefits to include professional development through certificate programs, especially if they align with an employee's current role or career advancement within the company. </p> <h2 id="section---EarnYourDegreeToday"> Earn Your Degree Today</h2> <p>Don't wait to achieve your academic goals. Explore the online degrees offered at schools featured here on Learn.org and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow.</p>