In addition to the protections offered by having a union contract, UFCW membership also comes with access to a wide range of educational benefits. Whether you’re pursuing a degree, enhancing life skills, or mastering a new language, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Degree Programs
Get your GED
With this specially designed program, UFCW members will be able to earn their GED at their own pace, on their own time. You can even take classes on your phone.
UFCW Discount College Program
The UFCW is launching a new college benefit that will be able to offer significantly discounted tuition rates to UFCW members and their families. Participants will choose from a number of participating colleges and degree programs, spanning from certificates, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Continuing Education
Learn a new language
UFCW members can learn a foreign language online for free— including Spanish, French, German, English, Japanese and over 70 other languages! Quarterly enrollment into this program is on a first come, first serve basis.
Workforce Essentials Courses
UFCW members can sharpen their skills with the Workforce Essentials programs. Get the knowledge that will help you advance your career. Expand your skills and achieve personal career goals such as earning a promotion or becoming an expert on a certain field.
Current courses offered are:
- Work Essentials
- Computer Essentials
- Money Essentials
Scholarship Opportunities
UFCW International Charity Foundation Scholarship
Every year, the UFCW Charity Foundation offers scholarships to UFCW members or their immediate family members who want to further their education and demonstrate a commitment to their communities and to UFCW values. Since 1958, the fund has distributed more than $2 million in scholarships.
When I was a student, our union didn’t offer any scholarship programs, but luckily my union contract provided a pretty strong wage, great benefits and enough say in my schedule that I was able to bag groceries and go to school. Still, it wasn’t easy and I know my life would have been better if our union offered a scholarship benefit.
– Anthony “Marc” Perrone, International PresidentKnowing how much I struggled to balance work, life and school, I’m thrilled that our union family continues to offer this program to members year after year.
Union Plus Scholarship
The Union Plus Scholarship Program awards scholarships based on outstanding academic achievement, personal character, financial need, and a commitment to the values of organized labor. The program is offered through the Union Plus Education Foundation.
Union Plus Scholarship awards are granted to students attending a two-year college, four-year college, graduate school, or recognized technical or trade school.
Get Local
Your local union may offer additional scholarships or education opportunities that are only available to UFCW members at your local union. To make sure you aren’t missing out, be sure to ask your union representative for information about educational programs, financial assistance, or available training.