Subject to the availability of funds, tuition assistance is available for Federal employees holding Term, Career Conditional, or Career appointments.

SAO encourages employees to improve their skills and to attain career goals through continuing education. Eligible Federal employees may take, at an accredited educational institution, approved courses which bear directly upon the performance of official duties. The purpose of the Tuition Assistance Program is to develop and enhance employees' value to the organization. Tuition assistance for the sole purpose of obtaining an academic degree or certificate is not authorized for funding by Smithsonian Institution.

Subject to availability of funds and prior approval, 100% of the tuition, registration, lab fees, and required course materials will be reimbursed for up to a maximum of four semester courses or six trimester courses per calendar year (not to exceed two courses per semester or trimester). It is the employee's responsibility to submit a Request & Authorization for External Training/Tuition Reimbursement, to the Department of Human Resources 2-3 weeks prior to the start date of the course. Late-registration fees will not be reimbursed.

Because degree programs are not eligible for funding, all courses are subject to content and cost controls. Reasonable effort must be made to find the least-cost provider. If the same or equivalent course content is offered at Harvard Extension School, or any other local accredited institution, at a lower cost, only an amount equal to the lower cost will be reimbursed.

Reimbursement will be made upon receiving a passing grade. Proof of course completion will be required. If you do not complete the course or receive a failing grade, you will not be reimbursed by SAO for the amount you paid for the approved course.

For more information, contact the SAO Benefits Office at (617) 495-7371.