Does Target Pay For College? [2025 Update]

Target has built one of the most widely recognized corporate education programs in retail. Through a mix of tuition-free options, tuition reimbursement, and scholarships, the company gives team members practical ways to pursue higher education without leaving their jobs.

If you work at Target, you can start many of these benefits right away. The programs are meant to help you balance work responsibilities with your academic goals, so you can build your career while keeping college affordable.

Key Takeaways

• Target Offers Multiple Education Benefit Programs For Team Members. You can access tuition-free programs, tuition reimbursement, and scholarships for different degrees, certificates, and skill-based courses.
• Eligibility Requirements Vary By Program Type And Employment Status. Benefits are open to part-time and full-time U.S. employees, but each program has its own enrollment and approval criteria.
• Application Processes Include Documentation And Approval Requirements. You apply through the Target x Guild portal, submit academic documents, and often need manager approval to activate funding.
• Educational Coverage Includes Various Program Types And Institution Options. The Guild catalog includes associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, boot camps, certificates, and language learning.
• Strategic Investment Benefits Both Employees And Company Operations. These programs help Target reduce turnover, build leadership pipelines, and improve job performance while helping you grow professionally.

What Are Target’s College Education Benefits?

Target’s education assistance program, often called “Dream to Be,” combines several ways to reduce the cost of education.

• Tuition-Free Programs: Certain associate and bachelor’s degrees are covered at no cost if you choose schools in the Guild partner network. That means tuition and mandatory fees are paid directly so that you can study without upfront payments.
• Tuition Reimbursement: For programs outside the tuition-free list, Target reimburses up to $5,250 per year for non-master’s programs and up to $10,000 per year for master’s programs. This is the IRS maximum that most U.S. companies use, but it is still a meaningful benefit.
• Certificates and Skills Training: You can also use benefits for boot camps, professional certificates, trade programs, high school completion, and English-language learning.

These options give you flexibility. If you want a full degree, you can choose a tuition-free pathway. If you prefer specific skills or advanced education, reimbursement may cover most of the costs.

Why Target Invests In Employee Education

Target doesn’t treat education support as just a perk. It is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the workforce. In retail, turnover is one of the biggest challenges, and education programs encourage people to stay longer, develop new skills, and pursue leadership opportunities within the company.

The investment benefits both sides. You get affordable education that builds your resume and career options, while Target develops skilled team members who are more motivated, more productive, and more likely to grow into management.

Who Qualifies For Target Education Assistance Programs?

Eligibility rules are designed to make education accessible for most active U.S. employees. Still, each benefit has specific requirements.

Employment Status And Duration Requirements

Both full-time and part-time team members are eligible for tuition-free programs as soon as they are hired. That makes Target unusual compared with other employers that often require a waiting period. Seasonal or short-term positions may not qualify.

Performance And Standing Requirements

You must remain in good standing at work. That generally means meeting job performance expectations, following attendance rules, and avoiding disciplinary action. Some programs also require that you maintain good academic progress.

Academic Enrollment And Institution Requirements

Programs must be through accredited institutions in the Guild network. If you choose a program outside of the tuition-free list, you may still get reimbursement up to the annual caps, but you need Guild approval before enrolling.

Position Level And Department Eligibility

Most store, supply chain, and headquarters positions qualify, but program details may differ slightly by department or job type. The Guild portal shows which options match your position.

Geographic And Location Considerations

Benefits apply to team members in the United States. Since the catalog of schools is built through Guild, your available program list may vary depending on location and online options.

How To Apply For Target Education Benefits

Applying is a step-by-step process managed through Guild to keep approvals consistent.

Research Available Program Options

Start at the Target x Guild portal. You can browse schools, degree programs, and tuition-free options. This helps you understand what is fully covered versus what falls under reimbursement caps.

Complete Application Documentation

When you find a program, you’ll complete an online application. You enter personal details, your Target role, and your education goals. This helps Guild and Target confirm eligibility.

Submit Academic Records And Transcripts

If you are continuing your education, you may need to upload transcripts or verify your GPA. This documentation confirms that you meet the academic entry requirements.

Obtain Management Approval And Recommendations

Applications are managed through the Target × Guild portal. You follow the prompts in the portal to complete your submission. While manager approval is not listed as a universal requirement, it helps to let your leader know so they can support your scheduling needs.

Enroll In Approved Educational Programs

Once approved, you complete enrollment with the school. Target and Guild handle tuition payments directly for eligible programs, or they set up reimbursement if you are in a capped program.

What Educational Programs Does Target Support?

Target’s education benefits are designed to cover different academic and professional paths. This flexibility lets you choose the route that best matches your career goals and personal situation.

Undergraduate Degree Programs

You can pursue associate and bachelor’s degrees through Target’s partner schools. Many of these are tuition-free if you pick from the approved list in the Guild catalog. These programs are offered at accredited universities, state colleges, and community colleges. They are designed to give you recognized credentials that can help you qualify for leadership roles within Target or open doors to opportunities in other industries.

Graduate And Professional Programs

If you are aiming for an advanced credential, Target provides up to $10,000 per year toward master’s degrees. The Guild catalog includes professional programs in areas such as business, supply chain management, data analytics, and more. This support makes graduate school significantly more affordable while you continue working.

Trade And Technical Training Programs

Not every career path requires a traditional degree. Target also supports bootcamps, vocational courses, and technical certificates. These programs are useful if you want to upskill quickly in areas like information technology, logistics, or retail management. They provide targeted training you can apply directly on the job.

Online And Distance Learning Options

Most Guild partner schools offer online or hybrid courses. This makes it easier to balance study with your work schedule. Whether completing a degree or taking a short course, you can usually access course materials on your own time, giving you flexibility to succeed at work and school.

Alternatives To Target Education Benefits

Target’s education assistance can be a strong option, but is tied to employment eligibility and program-specific rules. There are alternatives if you want a pathway to higher education that does not depend on your job.

University of the People (UoPeople) offers accredited, tuition-free degree programs in business administration, computer science, health science, and education. Students pay small assessment fees per course, and scholarships are available if needed. 

UoPeople is entirely online so that you can study from anywhere, and it partners with institutions like NYU and UC Berkeley to create transfer and enrichment opportunities. This model gives you the chance to pursue higher education without the financial burden or restrictions that sometimes come with corporate tuition programs.

FAQs

How Much Tuition Assistance Does Target Provide For College Education?

Target covers up to $5,250 per year for non-master’s programs and up to $10,000 per year for master’s programs. Certain associate and bachelor’s degrees are tuition-free if they are part of the Guild partner list.

What Are The Minimum Work Requirements For Target Education Benefits?

You can qualify for tuition-free programs from your first day as a part-time or full-time team member. Other benefits may require you to remain in good standing and follow specific program rules.

Can Part-Time Target Employees Qualify For Education Assistance Programs?

Yes. Both full-time and part-time U.S. team members are eligible to use tuition-free and reimbursement options through Guild.

Does Target Cover Graduate School Tuition Or Just Undergraduate Programs?

Target offers up to $10,000 per year toward master’s degrees, as well as undergraduate and certificate options.

What Is The Application Process For Target Education Benefits?

You apply through the Target x Guild portal, submit transcripts and other documentation, and complete any required supervisor approvals. Once approved, you can enroll in your program and activate funding.

Are Online Degree Programs Covered Under Target’s Education Assistance?

Yes. Many Guild schools offer fully online or hybrid degree programs that qualify for tuition-free or reimbursement benefits.

How Long Must You Work At Target To Qualify For Tuition Benefits?

You are eligible for tuition-free programs from your first day as a part-time or full-time team member. Reimbursement programs may include additional conditions based on your program and academic progress.

Does Target Require Employees To Stay With The Company After Receiving Education Benefits?

Target’s public information does not specify a repayment requirement if you leave the company. It is best to check your program details in the Guild portal or confirm with HR for your exact situation.