Meeting college expenses, along with academic expectations, can be challenging with various tasks to look in to. Saving money is something to consider but, that may not be sufficient considering the rising fees, rising campus expenses, your food and clothing and other important needs. Given the situation, it’s become imperative to start earning while still in college and get the first glimpse into what the corporate or commercial world can offer you.

There are lucrative jobs available for college students like becoming a tutor, taking up freelancing jobs, posting content & videos on social media platforms, develop apps, teach an instrument and many more. However, one of the fastest-growing part-time jobs for college goers is working at restaurants and fast food jobs.

Many fast-food jobs offer tuition reimbursement and, this factor makes it all the more important to choose one and fund your college expenses while studying. These jobs allow you to explore more options and work for longer duration whenever time permits.

But, reimbursement won’t come just like that. There are conditions in place and, you may need to serve the fast-food joint for a specific duration. There are other cases where reimbursement is given only after completing your degree or by scoring a minimum grade.

At the outset, working at a fast-food joint may not seem lucrative, but take a close look, and you will be surprised by the perks and reimbursement options they offer to fund your educational expenses.

Let’s get down to seriously discuss fast-food jobs with attractive benefits.

Starbucks

It’s not just about refreshing coffee and lip-smacking dishes over long conversations. There’s another side to Starbucks that lets you get a degree through its unique reimbursement program. It introduced the Starbucks College Achievement Plan in 2014 partnering with Arizona State University offering to reimburse tuition costs at the end of each semester.

No bonds to continue after graduation and no minimum duration to serve are the advantages Starbucks provides its employees. You only have to complete 20 hours per week at any Starbucks outlet and be eligible for reimbursement from day one.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

This signature burrito-chain has an immersive environment and is one of the highest-paying food outlets. Crew members can earn $9 per hour on an average. You need to work for the food outlet for at least a year. Students from accredited universities and vocational schools can apply for reimbursement. You also have the option to become a manager for the outlet and enjoy benefits like stock options and a company car.

McDonald’s

One of the most popular food chains across the world, McDonald’s is also one of the largest employers of college students. A minimum of 15 hours per week across three consecutive months is needed to qualify for the reimbursement program. The brand recently started its “Archways to Opportunity” program to offer students a major chunk of their college fees. The wait-time is just 90 days and the benefits have increased to $2,500 per annum for every crew member.

Pizza Hut

One of the world’s largest pizza brands offers 15% discount for graduates and up to 50% discount in tuition fees for undergraduates.  The waiting period is only 60 days. It’s exclusive “Life Unboxed EDU” is the latest reimbursement program extends its benefits to employees’ immediate family members too. Employees can enjoy attractive discounts on several online programs with Excelsior College Program. It’s an excellent topping for your higher education apart from the finest toppings for pizza.

Chick-Fill-A

The irresistible chicken recipes by a leading national chain doubles up its opportunities by tying up with hundreds of colleges and universities. Reimbursement is available for up to 30% for online degree programs.

White Castle

Employees enrolling for degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University are eligible for 10% discount on tuition fees from White Castle. You can get your degree through online classes and also through 15 on-site education centres located across Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. Students can work across any of the 400 restaurants.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

The fastest-growing food chain pays a significantly beyond the average amount of most food chains for its employees. Paid sick leave is the standout benefit of this food chain, not found in most brands. Additionally, free meal perks keep employees delighted with a cult-following culture.

Panda Express

If you can fulfil the expectation of working for extended hours, Panda Express will pay the highest hourly wages starting at $9.01. Added benefits and growth opportunities only mean you can support your education without any hassles.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

Enrol for the REACH Educational Grant Program on completion of six months of service at the nation’s favourite fast-food chain. The program by KFC offers grant money to cover college tuition expenses and the award ranges between $2,000 to $2,500 for workers.

Taco Bell

The leading Mexican food chain provides tuition discounts through Guided Education that manages all higher education programs. He company is also tied-up with over 80 online universities and learning centres not-for-profit. The tuition fees can go up to $5,250 per annum for employees working at participating outlets.

Sheetz

The family-owned mid-Atlantic food chain provides up to $1,500 a year towards tuition fees. You can fund your associate bachelor’s or graduate degree. You need to work 16 hours a week for at least 90 days before the current term commences to qualify.

The Final Word

Going by the growing trend, its not that difficult to work and accumulate savings and earn extra to pay for college. You only need to schedule your day based on these part-time jobs while prioritising your education at the same time. With some managerial skills and discipline, you can start earning even before graduation and make sound plans for the future.