Tuition Reimbursement Policy: A Case Study

I. Policy:
Topaz provides tuition reimbursement to supports employee skill development and enhancement.

II. Definitions:
None.

III. Procedures:

A. Eligibility to Apply for Tuition Reimbursement – All part-time and full-time employees are eligible to apply for tuition reimbursement on or after the first anniversary of their employment date.

B. Reimbursement Amount - The lifetime reimbursement is capped at $25,000. Employees are eligible for reimbursement based on the following years of employment with Topaz:
1. 1-3 years: Annual maximum reimbursement paid in any calendar year for all approved courses is $1250
2. 4-6 years: Annual maximum reimbursement paid in any calendar year for all approved courses is $2500
3. 7 years or more: Annual maximum reimbursement paid in any calendar year for all approved courses is

The employee’s employment status must be “active” on the date tuition reimbursement is paid

D. Reimbursement Limits – Books and other non-tuition expenses are non-reimbursable

E. Reduction of Benefit
The amount of the reimbursement received through the Tuition Reimbursement Program will be reduced dollar for dollar by the amount of grants, scholarships, and other financial aid or course discounts which are paid directly to the institution and which the student does not have to pay back.

F. Procedures for Applying for Tuition Reimbursement - An associate applying for tuition reimbursement must complete the following steps:
1. Complete the tuition reimbursement request located on SharePoint within 10 business days of start of the class(es)
2. Request approval from your supervisor
3. Submit the tuition reimbursement form to Human Resource

G. Reimbursement Approval
1. The employee must submit their official grade to the Finance Department within 30 days of receiving their grade
2. Reimbursement will be included in the next one or two paychecks.
3. If the request for reimbursement is denied, the associate will be notified of the