Human Resource Services (HRS) Procedures

Apply for Tuition Reimbursement

Human Resources, Human Resource Services  |  Approved August 18, 2017

Purpose

Apply for tuition reimbursement as a current employee.

Applicability

Only full-time regular exempt and non-exempt employees are eligible for tuition reimbursement for work related courses. Tuition Reimbursement is only available when a course is not offered or available at a participating USM campus. 

Pre-approval by Human Resources is required for all tuition reimbursement requests.  All documents must be submitted to the Human Resources with a completed Tuition Reimbursement Form at least two (2) weeks before the course begins.

For more information, please review the Tuition Reimbursement website or contact Human Resources.

Instructions

Determine if the course is available through a USM or reciprocal institution.  If not, you may be eligible for tuition reimbursement for the course.

1. Ensure the course for enrollment meets reimbursement guidelines:
   1. The course MUST be job related;
   2. The course must not be offered through a participating USM or reciprocal institution; 
   3. Tuition reimbursement may not exceed four (4) credit hours per semester; and
   4. The maximum allowance per credit is not to exceed the current charge for one (equivalent) graduate/undergraduate credit hour at the University of Maryland, College Park.
2. Complete pre-approval paperwork prior to enrolling in course:
   1. Complete Tuition Reimbursement Form.
      1. Review and print the completed request.
      2. Obtain authorized signature from Department Head or designee.
   2. Obtain additional mandatory documentation.
      1. Employees must provide documentation illustrating the course is not available within USM. 
      2. A letter from your department head must be provided substantiating that the course is job related.
   3. Tuition reimbursement costs are the responsibility of the employee’s department.
   4. Forward the completed Tuition Reimbursement Form and supporting documents to Human Resources, 620 W. Lexington Street, 3rd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201.
   5. Human Resources will process and provide initial pre-approval.  Form will be returned to applicant with Human Resources pre-approval Signature.
3. For payment: Following the successful completion of the course, Departments should forward a copy of the approved agreement, proof of final passing grade, proof of payment and a completed check request form to Financial Services – Accounts Payable for payment.
4. 1. A copy of approved form;
   2. The final grade as proof of the satisfactory completion of the course; and
   3. Proof of payment.
5. Human Resources will work with Accounts Payable to ensure the payment is processed.
6. If you have any questions regarding Tuition Remission, please contact Human Resources at 6-2616.

Important Tax Reminder: The value of some tuition reimbursement benefits may be considered taxable income per IRS guidelines. Consult your tax advisor.  See Tuition Remission Taxation Chart for additional information.