Student-centric advice and objective recommendations
Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.
Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here.
How to Get McDonald’s Tuition Reimbursement
McDonald’s offers eligible employees tuition assistance through their “Archways to Opportunity” program (sometimes called “MCD tuition assistance”). McDonald’s employees are able to improve their English skills, earn high school diplomas and even earn college degrees as well. The McDonald’s tuition assistance program can be used for both on-campus and online degree programs that are accredited.
In this guide, let’s find out how to get McDonald’s tuition assistance!
Related: Top scholarships for adults
How much does McDonald’s offer in tuition reimbursement?
McDonald’s tuition assistance program will reimburse both full-time and part-time employees. Full-time employees can receive up to $5,250 per year and part-time employees can receive up to $2,500 per year.
Step-by-step guide to get tuition reimbursement at McDonald’s
1. Find a job at a nearby McDonald’s
To begin, visit McDonald’s career website in order to view open positions. If you input a location it will provide you with open positions near that area. McDonalds is an extremely popular chain restaurant that has over 38,000 locations in over 100 countries.
Eligible full-time employee positions:
- Store Manager Trainee
- Department Manager
- General Manager
Eligible part-time employee positions:
- Restaurant Crew
- Floor Supervisor
- Shift Manager Trainee
- Primary Maintenance
- Any other part-time employee
2. Obtain McDonald’s tuition reimbursement eligibility
To be eligible for McDonald’s tuition reimbursement, there is a minimum you will need to have worked at McDonalds. You will have to work for at least 90 cumulative days and work an average of 15 hours per week for part-time eligibility. McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity website has more information about the requirements for eligibility for McDonalds tuition reimbursement.
3. Choose the best academic path and institution for you
McDonald’s provides its employees with the benefit of freedom in selection of their university. Being an employee at McDonald’s provides access to Bright Horizons Education network with 200+ discounted education institutions.
4. Complete and submit your online request for Tuition Assistance
Around 45 days before your course starts, gather some personal information such as:
- Employee information (Payroll ID, start date, current role, average hours worked)
- Restaurant address
- Social Security number
- School and course information
- Eligible textbook costs and receipts
Now head to the Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions website and create an account. Through the Bright Horizons website you will be able to access messages and take advantage of live chat features! Click on “New Application”, then fill out the form detailing the following:
- Area of study
- Education provider (college, university, or other educational institution)
- Session start and end dates
- Each course you are taking and their names and credit hour
Once all of the information is filled out, submit your application! Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions will then view and verify that it meets policy compliance and a Letter of Credit (LOC) will be issued. You will receive an email letting you know when it has been approved. Then, you will sign the LOC and send it to your school which acts as the direct bill verification. Then, you will be able to begin your classes!
5. Get that education!
Congratulations! It is now time to begin your studies as a McDonald’s employee. Be sure to reach out to your bosses, co-workers, BrightHorizons live chat and professors for help along the way. You are in good hands being a McDonald’s employee!
6. After you complete a course, submit paperwork in order to receive reimbursement
In order to receive accurate reimbursement for your educational expenses, you must submit some paperwork. You will need to upload a transcript by December 31 of each year showing that you have satisfactorily completed your term.
McDonald’s provides a lot of information about their tuition reimbursement on their website. Be sure to read through their requirements to make sure you receive your tuition reimbursement!
Choosing the right school and program
Being a full-time or part-time employee takes up a lot of your time. Therefore, take your time researching what school and what program will be best for you. Consider if going to classes in person or online is better and what level of degree you might want to pursue.
The most important factor when selecting an educational institution is to choose an accredited institution. This means that the education you will receive is quality!
Alternatives to McDonald’s tuition reimbursement
If McDonalds isn’t right for you, don’t worry! We have written a number of guides on other companies that also offer tuition assistance. For example, Amazon, Chipotle, Target, Starbucks, and plenty more offer affordable education for their employees! Be sure to check them out and choose the right company and tuition benefits for you!
For more educational funding: Scholarships360’s free scholarship search tool
Frequently asked questions about McDonald’s tuition reimbursement
Who is eligible for McDonald’s tuition reimbursement?
How will I receive reimbursement for my tuition expenses through McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity?
McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity plan is detailed out on their website. Be sure to vigorously research to ensure you become and remain eligible for tuition reimbursement from McDonald’s!
What if I have scholarships or grants? Will I still receive reimbursement from McDonalds?
If you have any questions about scholarships affecting your tuition reimbursement from McDonalds be sure to contact your dedicated academic coaches found through Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions.
Will McDonald’s tuition assistance cover the costs of textbooks as well?
Textbook Expenses are reimbursed differently than your course or tuition costs. Textbooks are considered an out-of-pocket expense. So, instead of Bright Horizons dealing directly with your school, the awards you receive for textbook reimbursement will be sent via payroll.
