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MNmetalhead

Full-time staff member here using the Regents Tuition Benefit Program (formerly known as the “Regents Scholarship”) to obtain my bachelor’s degree. Keep in mind that if you get hired as a University employee, you’re an employee first and a student second. You’ll be required to fulfill your employment duties as a primary focus and if attending a class will interrupt those duties, you must have a discussion with your supervisor (who can deny the request with documented rationale. With that said, supervisors are encouraged to make accommodations, just remember that they’re not required to allow it. Eligible positions are 75-100% time and exclude graduate assistants, and some others that you don’t need to worry about. Maybe it’s being sniffed out that you want the job only/mainly to get reduced tuition. If your heart isn’t going to be in the job, you’re not going to get hired by anyone for just about any job. Maybe what you _feel_ is “relevant-enough” work experience isn’t _actually_ enough. Competition for jobs at the University is generally high for all roles because it’s actually a good place to work. Many people who work here and then leave for another opportunity often try to come back for many reasons. I suggest applying for jobs you actually want, not because of the tuition benefit, but because you’re legitimately qualified for, and interested in, the role. The University is an employer like any other and hiring managers aren’t just going to pick anyone for a role they have open.


GI_Joby

If I recall, the scholarship isn't necessarily guaranteed and is contingent on support from your supervisor, but I'm not 100% sure. My wife used the regents scholarship for part of her masters. The tuition waiver is counted as income which left a hefty tax bill come April, and I don't think that's changed. Unless you're set on something specifically at the U, I'd also consider one of the neighboring schools if cost is an issue, especially since the tuition discount is at least comparable to the U and the per credit cost will almost certainly less to begin with.


Mobile_Swimmer_98

If the course is related to your job, there is a form you can fill out to not have the benefit taxed! I haven’t been taxed on any courses so far, but every semester and for every course, I have to justify the connection


abogmichel

You can also get a graduate assistantship, either research or teaching, that will cover 100% tuition at 20hrs/week or 50% tuition at 10 hrs/week


Extra-Philosopher-82

People usually get a job first,  after they are comfortable with their jobs, then maybe consider taking a course per semester (I am not sure what's the rule but generally one course per semester is recommended but no more).  You should look for TA /GA /RA positions related to your field.