Tuition Assistance Program

Updated: January 2020

Policy: Bowdoin College offers full and part-time regular benefits eligible employees who are in good standing (overall successful performance evaluation) and have completed three years of continuous service the opportunity to participate in a tuition assistance program.  To be eligible for the fall semester benefit, the three years of service must be completed on or before September 1^stand to be eligible for the spring semester benefit three years of service must be completed on or before January 1^st.  An individual who is eligible for this benefit as an employee is not eligible for the Dependent Scholarship Benefit as well. 

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

This program is for eligible employees pursuing either a first associate's or bachelor’s degree or have an associate degree and are now enrolled in a program to continue their education and obtain a bachelor degree with an accredited institution of higher education. A second associate’s or bachelor’s degree is not covered. If not yet matriculated, up to two classes may be submitted for reimbursement with the intention to enroll in a degree program. Some certificate programs leading toward career paths where specific degree programs are not available are eligible for reimbursement (i.e. culinary and information technology certificate programs). 

The course of study leading to a degree does not necessarily need to align with the employee’s current position or area of discipline at the College and can also be pursued simply for personal growth and development. Reimbursements will be for up to $500 per semester toward tuition and course related fees, minus any scholarship monies received. Travel expenses, books, and parking fees are not reimbursable.  Maximum benefit is for 8 semesters ($4,000).

Reimbursement for the course will be contingent upon:

1. Approved Application for Tuition Assistance Reimbursement which must be completed in advance of taking any courses and requires Supervisor and Human Resources approval.  Any scheduling conflicts will need to be discussed and approved prior to registering for classes.  It is expected that, when possible, employees will attend classes outside their normal work hours.
2. Successful course completion with a minimum grade of C as verified through a copy of an official transcript or grade report submitted to Human Resources.
3. Submission to Human Resources of an itemized bill with paid receipt.

Employee’s interested in taking Bowdoin College courses, for credit or audit, may be considered a ‘special student’ under the College’s Educational Assistance policy. If eligible for tuition assistance, request for reimbursement will be submitted to human resources and, if approved, the Bursar’s office will be notified.

While Graduate programs are not eligible for financial assistance under this policy, those looking to pursue or continue their education, undergraduate or graduate, can find resources at MaineSpark, as well as information on scholarships for adult learners through the Maine Community Foundation.