Walmart Will Pay 100% College Tuition to Associates
Written by
Yaël Bizouati-Kennedy
Edited by
Cory Dudak
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Walmart, the largest U.S. private employer, announced it will pay 100% of college tuition and books for associates through its Live Better U (LBU) education program.
See: Is College Tuition Tax Deductible?Find: 20 Ways To Spend Less Money at Walmart
The company said it will invest nearly $1 billion over the next five years in career-driven training and development, according to a statement.
“We are creating a path of opportunity for our associates to grow their careers at Walmart, so they can continue to build better lives for themselves and their families,” Lorraine Stomski, senior vice president of learning and leadership at Walmart, said in the statement. “This investment is another way we can support our associates to pursue their passion and purpose while removing the barriers that too often keep adult working learners from obtaining degrees.”
Walmart said that starting August 16, it would remove the $1 a day fee it previously had for employees who want to earn a degree.
“The economy and job market have changed, and Walmart is always looking for new ways to encourage more associates to pursue further education,” the statement reiterated.
Compare: Should Your Teen Save for College or Invest for Retirement?Discover: The Best Colleges With Tuition Under $20K
The company explained that it will add four academic partners, including Johnson & Wales University, the University of Arizona, the University of Denver and Pathstream. These will be additions to the current partners, including Brandman University, Penn Foster, Purdue University Global, Southern New Hampshire University, Wilmington University and Voxy EnGen.
“Each of these institutions were chosen for their history of success with adult and working learner programs as well as their focus on degree completion,” according to the statement.
“Walmart is committed to eliminating the burden of education debt. Cost is a leading barrier for earning a degree with student loan debt in the U.S. topping $1.7 trillion,” the company added.
Read: Group of Senators Push for Swift Action on Student Debt – What Could This Mean For You?Learn: How To Determine the Right Amount To Borrow as a College Student
“As the company making one of the nation’s largest investments in education for America’s workforce, Walmart is setting a new standard for what it looks like to prepare workers for the jobs of the future,” Rachel Carlson, CEO & co-founder of Guild Education, said in the statement. “Walmart is creating growth opportunities for their workforce and preparing them for the future of work.”
More From GOBankingRates
- What Money Topics Do You Want Covered: Ask the Financially Savvy Female
- 5 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About Social Security
- 20 Home Renovations That Will Hurt Your Home’s Value
- What Income Level Is Considered Middle Class in Your State?
Last updated: July 29, 2021
