Does Starbucks Pay for College? [2025 Update]

Getting a college degree doesn’t have to mean drowning in debt. Starbucks has redefined corporate tuition assistance with its forward-thinking College Achievement Plan, offering eligible employees the chance to earn a bachelor’s degree online from a top-tier university, with 100% of tuition covered upfront.

Through an exclusive partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), Starbucks supports both part-time and full-time employees (called “partners”) with a complete academic support system, from enrollment to graduation. Whether you’ve just finished high school or want to return to college after a break, the program is designed to meet you where you are.

This isn’t a traditional tuition reimbursement program where you pay out of pocket and wait to be paid back. Starbucks covers tuition directly, removing financial barriers that often hold people back from pursuing higher education.

Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Key Takeaways

• Starbucks provides 100% upfront tuition coverage through its College Achievement Plan with Arizona State University, including personalized coaching and online flexibility.
• Both part-time and full-time partners are eligible from day one, as long as they don’t already hold a bachelor’s degree and have a high school diploma or GED.
• A 5-step application process guides you from registration to university enrollment, with ongoing academic support from ASU coaches.
• Arizona State University is the exclusive education partner, offering more than 140 online undergraduate degree programs, including business, STEM, and liberal arts.
• The program benefits both partners and the company, helping reduce turnover, build internal leadership, and create more opportunities for upward mobility.

What is the Starbucks College Achievement Plan?

The Starbucks College Achievement Plan is a unique partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), giving eligible Starbucks employees full access to ASU’s accredited online bachelor’s degree programs. Unlike typical tuition reimbursement programs, this one pays tuition upfront, so you don’t have to cover the cost first and wait for reimbursement.

You’ll also get personalized academic coaching, access to flexible scheduling that fits around your work hours, and support navigating the application process. It’s a program specifically designed for working adults, and it removes many of the barriers that stop people from pursuing a degree, like financial strain or scheduling conflicts.

Whether you want to study marketing, engineering, education, or psychology, the Starbucks-ASU partnership opens the door to more than 140 different online programs that you can complete on your own time, without putting your life on pause.

Why Starbucks Decides to Pay for College

Starbucks isn’t just offering a generous perk; it is a smart investment in its people and future. With turnover being a major challenge in the retail and foodservice industries, the company realized that providing real education benefits could improve retention and attract motivated team members.

By giving partners a clear path to advancement, inside or outside the company, Starbucks builds loyalty, strengthens its brand, and helps close the skills gap in a changing economy. Educated employees tend to bring stronger communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills to their roles, which directly improves store operations and customer satisfaction.

In short, this is a win-win. You get a degree with no student loans. Starbucks gets a more capable, committed workforce.

Who is Eligible for the Starbucks Scholarship?

Starbucks designed the College Achievement Plan to be as accessible as possible, so most partners (employees) can take advantage of the scholarship early in their careers. The eligibility criteria are simple and inclusive, focusing on opening doors to higher education rather than creating barriers.

Part-Time and Full-Time Partners

Whether you’re a part-time barista or a full-time shift supervisor, you’re eligible. There’s no waiting period or minimum number of hours you have to work to qualify. You can start exploring the program as soon as you’re hired, giving you immediate access to a debt-free college opportunity.

Active Employees

To stay enrolled and receive tuition benefits, you must maintain active employment with Starbucks. If you take a temporary leave, you may still be eligible depending on the circumstances, but continued participation typically requires you to be on the payroll and working at least intermittently.

United States Residents

The program is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and those with DACA status. When applying for admission to Arizona State University, you’ll need to provide proof of residency or legal authorization to work in the U.S.

High School Diploma Holders

Before you can begin your degree, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum academic requirement for admission to ASU’s online undergraduate programs.

Non-Bachelor’s Degree Holders

This benefit is only for first-time bachelor’s degree seekers. You won’t be eligible for the Starbucks-ASU partnership if you already hold a four-year degree. However, you may still have access to other educational benefits through Starbucks’ broader benefits package.

How to Apply for Starbucks Tuition Reimbursement

Getting started with Starbucks’ College Achievement Plan is a straightforward process, especially with all the support built into the program. You’ll follow five simple steps to move from interest to enrollment, with guidance from academic coaches and Starbucks’ dedicated partner resources along the way.

Create a Starbucks Partner Hub Account

The first step is logging into the Starbucks Partner Hub. This is where you’ll find details about the College Achievement Plan and activate your education benefits. Once inside, you’ll be directed to Guild Education, Starbucks’ third-party education partner that manages the program logistics.

Complete the Arizona State University Application

Next, you’ll fill out an online application to ASU. This includes selecting your program of interest, providing your personal and academic background, and submitting any required forms or essays. Make sure to meet the ASU deadlines; they typically offer multiple start dates throughout the year to fit your schedule.

Meet With an Academic Success Coach

After applying, you’ll be matched with an academic success coach. This person is your go-to guide for the entire journey, helping you choose the right classes, map out your degree plan, and stay on track toward graduation. You’ll also check in regularly to make sure you’re balancing work and school effectively.

Choose an Eligible Degree Program

You’ll then browse ASU’s wide catalog of fully online bachelor’s programs and choose the one that fits your goals. Whether you’re interested in business, healthcare, psychology, or sustainability, you’ll find programs designed for flexibility and career relevance.

Submit the Required Documentation and Verification

Finally, you’ll upload transcripts from any previous schools, verify your employment at Starbucks, and complete any remaining paperwork required by ASU. Once accepted, your tuition will be covered 100% up front, with no out-of-pocket tuition payments needed.

What Are Some of the Accredited Universities You Can Attend with a Starbucks Scholarship?

Starbucks partners exclusively with Arizona State University Online for its College Achievement Plan scholarship program, providing access to high-quality bachelor’s degree programs. ASU is ranked among the most innovative schools in the U.S. and has built a strong reputation for supporting working adults through flexible, online education. Here are some of the standout colleges and schools you can explore:

Arizona State University Online

ASU Online is the central hub for Starbucks partners. It offers over 140 accredited bachelor’s programs, all delivered online. You’ll benefit from flexible start dates, recorded lectures, and personalized learning support. Programs range from business and psychology to sustainability and information technology, designed to fit your career goals and schedule.

Barrett, The Honors College

For high-achieving students, Barrett offers an elite academic experience within ASU. As a Starbucks partner, you can apply to this honors college and access enriched coursework, smaller classes, honors research, and mentorship opportunities. It’s a great option if you’re aiming for graduate school or leadership roles in your field.

Thunderbird School of Global Management

Thunderbird is a globally ranked business school that focuses on international leadership, global marketing, and cross-cultural management. Its online degree options prepare you for high-level corporate or entrepreneurial careers and offer one of the most internationalized business education experiences available.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

This is ASU’s largest and most diverse academic unit. It houses programs in psychology, political science, anthropology, English, sociology, and more. These degrees build transferable skills in communication, analysis, and critical thinking, perfect if you’re considering careers in education, media, public policy, or counseling.

Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

If you’re interested in STEM, Ira A. Fulton offers online bachelor’s programs in software engineering, electrical systems, cybersecurity, and more. You’ll be learning from experienced faculty and gaining skills for some of the most in-demand, high-paying careers in tech and applied sciences.

Getting Ready to Start Your Academic Journey With Starbucks

If you’ve been thinking about going back to school or earning your first degree, Starbucks makes it easier than ever. With full tuition coverage, no waiting period, and access to one of the best online universities in the U.S., the College Achievement Plan removes the typical barriers to higher education. You’ll get the coaching, flexibility, and support you need to thrive, without taking on student debt.

This program doesn’t just help you earn a degree. It gives you the tools to build a future, grow your career, and set an example for others. Whether you’re working behind the counter or managing a store, Starbucks is investing in your potential. All you have to do is take the first step.

If you’re not eligible for Starbucks’ program, University of the People offers accredited online degrees for just $160 per undergraduate course plus minimal fees, making higher education accessible without relying on an employer benefit.

FAQs

Does Starbucks really pay for college tuition for all employees?

Yes. Starbucks covers 100% of tuition costs upfront for eligible partners (employees) through its College Achievement Plan with Arizona State University Online. There’s no need to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.

What colleges and universities are included in the Starbucks education program?

Starbucks partners exclusively with Arizona State University Online for this benefit. You can access over 140 accredited bachelor’s degree programs through ASU across a wide range of disciplines.

How long must you work at Starbucks to qualify for a scholarship?

You’re eligible from day one of employment. There are no waiting periods, and both part-time and full-time partners can apply immediately once hired.

Are part-time Starbucks employees eligible for the college tuition benefits?

Yes. Part-time employees are fully eligible for the College Achievement Plan. You don’t need to meet a minimum number of hours to qualify.

What is the application process for the Starbucks College Achievement Plan?

The process starts when you log into the Partner Hub and activate your education benefits. From there, you’ll be directed to apply to Arizona State University Online. Once your application is submitted, you’ll connect with an academic success coach to help you choose a degree program that fits your goals. You’ll also need to send in your transcripts and confirm your employment status with Starbucks. The entire process is designed to be supportive, with guidance available at every step.

Does Starbucks cover graduate degrees or just undergraduate bachelor’s programs?

The College Achievement Plan is only for first-time bachelor’s degrees. Starbucks does not currently cover graduate or postgraduate education through this program.

Are there any out-of-pocket costs for the Starbucks college program?

Starbucks covers tuition and most fees. However, you may sometimes be responsible for incidental costs such as internet access, optional course materials, or proctoring fees.