Advancing your skills can transform your career, but we know funding the investment can be a barrier. Here’s the good news: many employers help with continuing education expenses. Here are three tips on how to ask your employer to fund your tuition expenses.
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement as part of their employee benefits package. Check your employee manual or send a note to your HR team to find out if this is an option for you.
Even if your employer doesn't offer a formal tuition reimbursement benefit, they may still help you cover the costs of the course. Here are some tips for making a compelling pitch for reimbursement!
Prepare a clearly outlined, and professional presentation. Center your messaging around how tuition reimbursement will save or make the business money.
Here’s some employer-centered ideas for your presentation:
Include in your presentation your willingness to commit to your proposed plan. Consider offering one or more of the following:
Start with this email template. Just copy and edit to fit.
Hi [MANAGER],
I would like to continue my professional growth by enrolling in this AI Prompting course offered by Oklahoma State University Center for the Future of Work. It’s a five-week hybrid course with online self-paced content and weekly, live sessions. The instructors are AI experts across leading global brands and industries, with extensive career experience in their respective fields.
Here are a few course highlights:
I anticipate quickly gaining skills that I can apply before the course is even over. Plus, I can share what I’ve learned with our team so that everyone benefits.
What do you think? I’d be glad to meet with you to discuss this further.
Best,
[NAME]
A company that invests in your personal growth earns your return value and loyalty. It’s a win-win proposition. And remember, if you don’t ask, it’s not likely they’ll offer. The worst thing that can happen is they say no. Take the initiative—they’ll appreciate it in the long run!
