Question 1

What is the Starbucks College Achievement Plan?

Accepted Answer

The Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP) is a first of its kind partnership with Starbucks and Arizona State University (ASU) that creates an opportunity for all eligible U.S. Starbucks partners (employees) to earn their first-time bachelor’s degree through ASU’s top-ranked online degree program.

Question 2

Why is Starbucks partnering with Arizona State University (ASU)?

Accepted Answer

Starbucks spent considerable time looking for the right collaboration for our partners. ASU’s mission, values and brand are a good match. ASU can stand side-by-side with Starbucks to offer a high-quality education, at scale, to all benefits-eligible U.S. partners. In addition, ASU is ranked as the #1 most innovative school in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Starbucks is proud to partner with an academic institution that recognizes the need for innovation to offer more people an opportunity of a quality higher education, and the freedom to pursue their passions in any field.

Question 3

What happens if I switch majors, fail a class or withdraw from a class?

Accepted Answer

We know that occasionally students will need to switch majors or will fail or withdraw from a class. The CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit will still be provided for these courses. Our priority is to keep you on track to graduation and to give you the flexibility you need to finish your degree. Remember, the CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit are only available up to your 135-credit maximum, regardless of whether you switched your major or failed or withdrew from classes. If you need to switch majors, or if you fail or withdraw from a class, it’s important to work with your academic advisor and financial aid counselor. You also must maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP).

Question 4

How many classes should I take and what is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

At ASU, taking one class per session is considered part-time, and 2+ classes per session is full-time. The number of classes you take per session is up to you. You can expect to invest six hours a week on coursework for every course credit. If a student is signed up for one course during a session, and that course is worth three credits, that student should plan to spend 18 hours a week on coursework. Every partner’s education journey is unique, and your enrollment coach can advise you on the time commitment you should expect to make for your course load. You are not required to be a full-time student to use the SCAP benefit.

Question 5

Am I required to be a full-time or part-time student to participate in SCAP?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum number of credits you need to take per semester to participate in SCAP. All of the degree programs can be taken part-time to accommodate your work schedule, family needs or other circumstances.

Question 6

I want to apply. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Your ASU enrollment coach can walk you through the entire process outlined here:

Apply to ASU: At the top of this page, click the yellow “Apply now” button to submit a free application and to request that an ASU enrollment coach call you. You may also reach out directly at (844) ASU-SBUX (278-7289). You must complete an application, supply needed documentation such as prior transcripts and meet ASU’s acceptance criteria. Your enrollment coach can walk you through each step along the way. If you are not offered admittance to ASU, you will have the opportunity to earn admission through the Pathway to Admission program.
Complete your financial aid file: You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The program requires the FAFSA, along with any required documentation, to be completed before the first day of your first session each year. Visit fafsa.ed.gov to get started and be sure to request that a copy be sent to ASU (school code 001081).
Register for classes: Once you’re admitted to your degree program, you can register for classes on your My ASU account. An academic advisor can help you choose classes and make a plan to carry you all the way to graduation. Before classes start, complete “ASU 10: Connect–ASU Orientation” (created just for Starbucks partners!) This is a brief orientation to ASU and online learning that gives you the tools to succeed in achieving your academic goals.
Receive 100% tuition coverage: You will receive an automatic, up-front 42% CAP Scholarship applied toward the cost of your tuition, and the Starbucks Tuition Benefit will be applied to any remaining tuition costs.

Question 7

How soon can I start classes?

Accepted Answer

There are six start dates every year—two sessions in the fall semester, two in the spring semester and two in the summer semester: students.asu.edu/academic-calendar. Your enrollment coach can help you plan your application process and start dates.,If you are not yet benefits-eligible but want to begin the process of enrollment, we encourage you to get started on your application to ASU right away. You can work with an enrollment coach to determine your options for session start dates based on an approximate date you may satisfy benefits eligibility.

Question 8

I’m not eligible yet, but I want to take part in SCAP. How can I get started?

Accepted Answer

We want to give you every opportunity to start classes as soon as you can. Regardless of tenure, you can apply to ASU as a Starbucks partner, and your application fee will be waived. Once ASU offers you admission, you can be ready to register for classes as soon as you become eligible for Starbucks benefits. Partners who decide to start class when ineligible will not receive the CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit for that semester.,If you find that you need to unregister from a course due to ineligibility, it is important to do so before the drop date for that session or you will be responsible for the full cost of the course. Course drop dates can be found on ASU’s Academic Calendar.

Question 9

Who is eligible for the Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP)?

Accepted Answer

There are a few eligibility requirements for SCAP. You must be a benefits-eligible partner who doesn’t have a bachelor’s degree and is employed by a Starbucks-owned business in the U.S. Additionally, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), have a complete financial aid file and meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP). You're required to submit the FAFSA and any other financial aid documents each year. If you do not meet the admission criteria for ASU, you will be offered Pathway to Admission. You'll have a chance to earn admission to ASU and be part of SCAP.

Question 10

How do I determine if I am eligible to start taking classes?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to determine your overall eligibility is the STATUS shown on your My ASU account in the Starbucks College Achievement Plan section of the homepage. SCAP status will show as Ineligible if you are not eligible for Starbucks benefits, your FAFSA is not fully processed, you have an academic hold, etc.,

You should not start taking classes until your My ASU account shows as “Eligible.”
If you begin classes before your status reflects as Eligible, you will not receive the CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit and will be responsible for paying for your classes.

Question 11

How do I establish and maintain my Starbucks Benefits eligibility?

Accepted Answer

Benefits eligibility is determined by your work state, the hours for which you are paid, your position and your length of employment. You can learn about benefits eligibility in many different places:,Starbucksbenefits.com

Review benefits eligibility with no login required.

Partner Central

Check how many hours you have accumulated towards the current benefit audit period by viewing the BEN Hours line of your pay statement. This shows your paid hours for the current 6-month audit period.

Partner Contact Center

Call (888) SBUX-411 with questions on benefits eligibility

Question 12

How does my initial Starbucks benefits eligibility impact my SCAP participation?

Accepted Answer

The Partner Contact Center is available to help you estimate when your initial benefits eligibility will start by calling (888) SBUX-411. Based on that date, you can determine the session in which you are eligible to begin taking courses:,

U.S. Mainland Partners: There are two academic sessions per semester at ASU – session A and session B (students.asu.edu/academic-calendar). The session you can enroll in depends on when your benefit eligibility is confirmed to begin:
- If you have established benefit eligibility before the start of session A, you can enroll in session A and session B, as long as your eligibility date takes effect before the end of the semester
- If you have established benefit eligibility after the start of session A, but before the start of session B, you can enroll in session B, as long as your eligibility date takes effect before the end of the semester
- If you have established benefit eligibility after the start of session B, you can enroll in next semester if your eligibility date takes effect before the end of that semester

Hawaii Partners: If you are eligible in any month during the semester, taking place on or before the final day of the enrolled semester, you are eligible for SCAP for that semester.

Pathway to Admission: You must have established eligibility for Starbucks benefits on or before the final day of the enrolled semester. Actively employed partners have up to 12 months following the end of the course to convert the course for credit. If you were eligible on the start date of a class but lost eligibility during that class, Starbucks will pay for the course credit conversion should you choose to convert the credit. You will not be expected to pay anything back but will be responsible for paying for future classes until you regain eligibility.

Question 13

How do the semi-annual Starbucks benefits eligibility audits impact my SCAP participation?

Accepted Answer

Does not apply to partners working in Hawaii or Pathway to Admission participants,Partner Passes January Benefits Audit,Partner who regains benefits as of April 1 may begin participating in SCAP as early as spring B session which begins in March. ,Partner Passes July Benefits Audit,Partner who regains benefits as of Oct. 1 may begin participating in SCAP as early as fall A session which begins in August.,Partner Fails January Benefits Audit,Partner remains eligible for both A and B sessions during the spring semester. Partner continues to receive the CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit during this time. However, beginning with the summer semester in May, partner will not be eligible to receive the CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit. Partner is encouraged to work with ASU financial aid to determine if they have any other financial aid options available for the summer semester. If partner passes July audit they will regain SCAP eligibility beginning with the fall A session which begins in August.,Partner Fails July Benefits Audit,Partner remains eligible for both A and B sessions during the fall semester. Partner continues to receive the CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit during this time. However, beginning with the spring semester in January, partner will not be eligible to receive the CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit. Partner is encouraged to work with ASU financial aid to determine if they have any other financial aid options available for the spring semester. If partner passes January audit they will regain SCAP eligibility beginning with spring B session which begins in March.

Question 14

What happens if I lose benefits eligibility while I’m studying at ASU?

Accepted Answer

If you lose benefits eligibility while you are taking classes at ASU, you will continue to receive the CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit for that semester.,You may continue to take classes at ASU, but you will not receive any CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit until you reestablish eligibility. See above “How do the semi-annual Starbucks benefits eligibility audits impact my SCAP participation?” for specific coverage based on audit timing. If you wish to continue, it is recommended that you contact the financial aid team to develop a plan.,You will not have to pay back any previously paid CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit.

Question 15

Are my family members eligible for SCAP?

Accepted Answer

If you are a U.S. partner and a veteran of the armed services, you may take advantage of the SCAP benefit and extend the benefit to one designated family member (a child, spouse or domestic partner).,If you are not a veteran, then your family members are not eligible.

Question 16

I’m a partner and a veteran of the armed services, how can my family member get started?

Accepted Answer

Your family member’s first step is to call the ASU enrollment team at (844) ASU-SBUX (278-7289) and mention that they are a dependent of a Starbucks military partner. From there, they can Apply to ASU and an enrollment coach will walk them through each step along the way.

Question 17

I'm not a U.S. citizen. Am I eligible to participate in SCAP?

Accepted Answer

All eligible U.S. partners, regardless of immigration status, can participate in SCAP. If you have questions about your citizenship or immigration status and SCAP participation, please contact an ASU enrollment coach by calling 844-ASU-SBUX (844-278-7289).

Question 18

What does it mean to have a complete ASU financial aid file?

Accepted Answer

SCAP scholars must have a complete financial aid file prior to the start of the first session in which they are taking courses, and each following semester. This generally includes having a completed FAFSA, submitting all required documentation and waiting until all processing is finished by ASU financial aid. These things can take some time so you should start completing your documents as soon as possible. Also, be sure to check your My ASU Finances tab for new or returned documents being requested on your Priority Task list.,Scholars must also maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

Question 19

Is there a cap or limit to the number of credit hours covered within the SCAP benefit?

Accepted Answer

Eligible partners may receive the CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit for up to 135 credits. The 135-credit limit will not include credits transferred to ASU or taken through Pathway to Admission.

Question 20

What should I expect to pay upfront/out of pocket for my tuition and fees?

Accepted Answer

The SCAP benefit covers 100% of tuition and fees. Other educational expenses, such as textbooks and laptops, are not covered.

Question 21

How does the upfront tuition benefit work?

Accepted Answer

ASU applies an automatic 42% CAP Scholarship at the beginning of the semester toward your enrolled classes. After the CAP Scholarship and any need-based grants are applied, the remaining tuition and fees are covered by the Starbucks Tuition Benefit applied directly to your ASU account.,The Starbucks Tuition Benefit covers the expense of tuition, the financial aid trust fee, college and class fees, net of the CAP Scholarship received at time of enrollment, any federal or military student aid and any need-based aid from ASU. Merit-based academic scholarships and private scholarships applied to tuition and fees do not reduce the Starbucks Tuition Benefit eligible expenses.,Other educational expenses, such as textbooks and laptops, are not covered, though financial aid may help cover these costs.,Note: You are not obligated to accept student loans that are offered and can adjust down to your needs. Borrow responsibly. Visit www.starbuckspartnerdiscounts.com to see the partner discounts that are available to you on books, computers and other items.

Question 22

Who can I talk to about my specific financial situation?

Accepted Answer

Your personal enrollment coach can answer many basic questions and can be reached at (844) ASU-SBUX.  Detailed inquiries can be answered by ASU’s financial aid team at (844) ASU-6693.

Question 23

Will I have to pay tax on this benefit?

Accepted Answer

The Starbucks College Achievement Plan is a Qualified Education plan under Internal Revenue Code section 127. This means that the amount that employers cover for your tuition and fees is tax free for federal income tax up to $5,250 per calendar year, (at Starbucks this amount is referred to as the Starbucks Tuition Benefit). If the annual tuition coverage exceeds $5,250, the excess amount is reported as taxable income to partners and applicable taxes are required to be paid by the partner.,Certain states have not adopted the federal treatment (currently Alabama, Indiana, New Jersey and Pennsylvania). If you work in one of these states, the full Starbucks Tuition Benefit is taxable for state income purposes and may be subject to applicable state tax withholding. In all other state and/or local jurisdictions that have a personal income tax, the benefit is taxable to the extent it exceeds the $5,250 federal exclusion.,Future changes in tax law could impact the federal or state taxation and/or the annual limitation of the benefit.,Consult a tax professional if you received a Section 127 benefit from another employer in the same calendar year.

Question 24

How do I keep track of my total Starbucks Tuition Benefit and plan for tax impacts?

Accepted Answer

Many scholars will not go above the $5,250 federal limit that Starbucks can provide for your tuition tax-free each calendar year. However, those who are taking multiple courses each session may exceed this yearly limit which will result in taxes being withheld on your paycheck at the end of the semester.,Review the Taxation of the Starbucks Tuition Benefit resource document for information on how to track the Starbucks Tuition Benefit and plan for tax impacts. Partners can reference this resource document within the ‘Tuition Profile’ box on My ASU > Finances page.

Question 25

Do I have to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the SCAP program requires that all partners fill out the FAFSA and submit any additional financial aid documents requested by ASU’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Services Office. You must have your financial aid file completed by the start date of your first session and every year.

Question 26

What types of degrees are offered?

Accepted Answer

SCAP covers all bachelor’s degrees delivered fully online by ASU. To explore the bachelor’s degree programs offered online by ASU, visit starbucks.asu.edu/starbucks-asu-degree-list.

Question 27

Is an associate degree offered through SCAP?

Accepted Answer

No. The program covers bachelor’s degrees offered online at ASU only. If you choose to start or complete an associate degree at another college, you may be able to transfer to ASU later to complete a bachelor’s degree through SCAP. You’re welcome to reach out to an enrollment coach to talk through your questions and the process for admission and possible credit transfer. To talk to an enrollment coach, call (844) ASU-SBUX.

Question 28

Are second bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees or doctoral programs offered through SCAP?

Accepted Answer

Partners who already have a bachelor’s degree cannot use this program for further study at this time. SCAP is designed to help Starbucks partners complete their first bachelor’s degree.

Question 29

What if I want to take part in SCAP, but ASU doesn’t offer the degree program I want?

Accepted Answer

ASU currently has a choice of over 150 bachelor’s degree programs delivered online, and regularly expands its online degree program offerings:
starbucks.asu.edu/starbucks-asu-degree-list.,If your preferred major isn’t offered today, make an appointment with an enrollment coach. Your enrollment coach can help you find a degree suitable to your interests and aspirations and may also be able to advise you on majors that ASU is planning to offer online soon.,ASU would appreciate your feedback as they plan which degrees to make available online in the future. Send an email to asuonline@asu.edu to share your thoughts.

Question 30

Is an online degree as valuable as a traditional degree?

Accepted Answer

At ASU, the diploma and transcript you earn online are identical to those you earn on campus—they say, “Arizona State University.” Courses are taught by the same award-winning faculty but are re-designed especially for effective and rigorous online learning, with the traditional semester broken into two 7.5-week sessions so that student progress is assessed continuously.

Question 31

What kinds of support services will I receive as a part of the program?

Accepted Answer

There will be many people to support you along the way from the moment you start an application to the day you graduate. A few of the key resources are listed here:,

Enrollment coach: This individual is responsible for supporting you through the steps of the enrollment process including selecting the right program, informing you about admission requirements, completing the application, requesting transcripts and setting realistic expectations to ensure you are well prepared to start classes.

,

Financial aid counselor: Financial aid counselors are responsible for supporting you as you plan your financial journey through college. They can help you understand how to complete your FAFSA and associated documentation and can explain how your SCAP benefit will work. You will also want to work closely with the financial aid team if you’re planning on borrowing a loan, studying abroad, or if you anticipate being late in submitting any financial aid documents. Finally, should you need to withdraw from a course prior to it ending, you should always contact a financial aid counselor. While your CAP Scholarship and Starbucks Tuition Benefit remain, federal aid may be impacted in the instance of a withdrawal.

,

Academic advisor: This individual is responsible for discussing transferred and remaining credits, providing course recommendations, explaining policies and procedures, recommending applicable resources, answering program-specific questions and keeping you on track to graduate. Academic advisors work with you from the time you are admitted to the program through graduation.

,

Success coach: This person works with you from the time you enroll through graduation. They will reach out proactively to ensure you are progressing through your degree program in a smooth and efficient manner. As life obstacles arise, your success coach will be there to provide resources and collaborate on a plan of action that best fits your specific situation (stress, time management, support system, etc.). Your success coach will empower you to follow through on set goals and will keep you moving forward toward graduation.

Question 32

Will I have access to career services and resources?

Accepted Answer

To assist Starbucks partners in their career and professional development, ASU offers a suite of career services designed specifically for students who are a part of the Starbucks College Achievement Plan. Browse the career services website for Starbucks partners for a variety of resources, including a step-by-step guide that meets you where you are in your career journey. You’ll also find information on fellowship and internship opportunities, job market data and upcoming career events for Starbucks partners.

Question 33

Does ASU Online offer disability support services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Student Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Services offers support to any online student with a qualified disability. Our accessibility and inclusive learning team finds reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities in relation to accessing course information, timed assessments, on-campus transportation, notetaking and more. The office also provides accessibility guidance to faculty members and offers training and engagement opportunities to increase awareness and ensure accessibility.

Question 34

What online support services can I receive at ASU?

Accepted Answer

As an online student at ASU, you’ll have access to a personalized suite of support services designed to empower you to succeed in school and in life. This includes an enrollment coach, financial aid counselor, academic advisor and success coach who will guide you through each part of your ASU journey from admission to graduation. You’ll also have access to counseling, career advising, tutoring, time management support and technology assistance. More information on online support services can be found at asuonline.asu.edu/students/services/.

Question 35

Is tutoring available for online students?

Accepted Answer

ASU provides a variety of free live tutoring options for currently enrolled online students. You can drop in during designated times or set up an appointment to receive support with course concepts, work on your writing abilities or improve other academic skills. Tutoring sessions include real-time interaction using Adobe Connect and are led by peer tutors who have successfully completed the courses they tutor. You can access tutoring services from anywhere as long as you have a reliable internet connection. Visit asuonline.asu.edu/students/tutoring for more information.

Question 36

Can I take advantage of study abroad opportunities at ASU?

Accepted Answer

Partners may choose to take advantage of study abroad opportunities at ASU, with the approval and support of their manager to take time off. Partners must maintain benefits eligibility to continue to receive tuition coverage through SCAP. Many partners choose to take advantage of study abroad opportunities that are shorter in length such as one to two weeks. Learn more at goglobal.asu.edu/corporate-scholarship-students.

Question 37

How can I connect with fellow SCAP scholars?

Accepted Answer

There are many ways for partners to connect with fellow scholars in the program across the U.S.,All SCAP scholars, inclusive of retail hourly partners, have special access to Workplace, an online collaboration tool where partners can connect with, support and ask questions of fellow scholars from around the country. Scholars can download the mobile Workplace app or visit starbucks.workplace.com.,To activate your account:

Click “LOG IN”
Retail partners, you must use this format for your email address:
- [US + your partner number]@starbucks.com (e.g., US1234567@starbucks.com)

,Once you log in, search for “SCAP” and join groups. If you cannot log in, submit a request here.,Partners can also connect with fellow Sun Devils through the ASU's Slack community or meet other SCAP scholars through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan group on Facebook.

Question 38

How do I get an ASU apron pin?

Accepted Answer

Once you have been admitted to ASU, your store manager can provide you with a SCAP ASU apron pin. Store managers can order pins through inventory ordering.

Question 39

How do I request SCAP swag, posters or flyers to share at an event?

Accepted Answer

SCAP scholars are our best advocates! SCAP collateral and swag may be requested for events to help you share the benefit. Work with your district manager to access Design Gallery and ship items directly to a store. If you are leading an event and do not have access to Design Gallery, you can submit a request via the SCAP Event Materials & Swag form.

Question 40

Can online students live on campus, join clubs and attend campus events?

Accepted Answer

Online students can use any public space across ASU’s four metro Phoenix campuses. Public spaces include Civic Space Park, Memorial Union, University Center buildings, libraries and more. However, dorms, on-campus living accommodations and a few other select areas are reserved for campus-based students.,Online students can also join clubs and attend campus events such as career fairs and sporting events. You can learn more about clubs and the online student community at asuonline.asu.edu/students/community/.

Question 41

How do I know if my existing credits will transfer to ASU?

Accepted Answer

ASU will accept transfer credit for traditional coursework you have successfully completed at regionally accredited institutions of higher education as documented on an official transcript. The transferability of your credit will be determined at the time of admission once ASU has received your official transcripts. Please keep in mind that the applicability of a specific transfer course toward an ASU degree program depends on the requirements of the department, division, college or school in which you are enrolled at ASU. You will work with an academic advisor to determine the applicability of your transferable credit once you are admitted to ASU. For detailed information about how credit transfers to ASU, please visit transfer.asu.edu/credits.

Question 42

Can I attend ASU on campus?

Accepted Answer

The SCAP benefit is only for the bachelor’s degree programs offered online at ASU and cannot be used for degree programs offered on campus at ASU. If you are an on-campus student at ASU and are interested in transferring to ASU Online to take advantage of SCAP, contact Financial Aid and Scholarship Services at CAP@asu.edu or (844) 278-6693.

Question 43

Can I apply the SCAP benefit to my current college/school or attend ASU at the same time?

Accepted Answer

The SCAP benefit applies only to bachelor’s degree programs offered online at ASU. Additionally, for financial aid purposes, students cannot be registered at another institution simultaneous to their studies at ASU. Federal aid can only be used at one institution at a time, and ASU must be the student’s “home school.”

Question 44

I’m currently enrolled at another college/school. Would I have to transfer immediately to get this benefit?

Accepted Answer

You can transfer to ASU at any time, provided you meet their admissions criteria. Make an appointment to speak with an enrollment coach to get questions answered about the application, admission process, credit transfer and financial aid. To talk to an enrollment coach, call (844) ASU-SBUX.

Question 45

Do I need to submit transcripts I received in another country as part of the application process?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your secondary and post-secondary transcripts from foreign institutions are an important part of assessing your college readiness and establishing your eligibility for federal student aid. Obtaining transcripts from foreign institutions can present unique challenges. Duplicated original transcripts are very hard to get in some countries, and records not in English will have to be submitted with translations. To help, ASU provides the following flexible options for submitting transcripts from institutions outside the U.S. -

ASU will accept certified copies rather than original transcripts; and
You can send those certified copies yourself (they don't have to come directly from the school).

,Remember, these policies are only applicable to foreign transcripts. The process can be time-consuming, but your enrollment coach can help.

Question 46

Does Starbucks offer any alternate educational assistance?

Accepted Answer

Starbucks does not currently offer any other paid educational assistance outside of SCAP. However, interested partners may wish to take advantage of the many educational offerings provided for free at Starbucks Global Academy: starbucksglobalacademy.com.

Question 47

What if I take a leave of absence from work?

Accepted Answer

If you are on an approved leave of absence, including a Career Coffee Break, you may continue to participate in the program provided you maintain Starbucks benefits eligibility. Call the Partner Contact Center at (888) SBUX-411 with questions on eligibility.

Question 48

What if I leave/separate from Starbucks while participating in SCAP?

Accepted Answer

If you were enrolled and eligible at the start of the current semester, your tuition and fees were covered upfront by the SCAP benefit (A and/or B session of the current semester). Any courses you enroll in after your separation date for both the current semester and all future semesters will no longer be covered by the SCAP benefit.,You will not have to repay the CAP Scholarship or Starbucks Tuition Benefit for any courses you are registered for in the current semester at time of separation, but you will no longer receive it for future classes. At the end of the year, Starbucks will report the value of the Starbucks Tuition Benefit as additional income on Form W-2.,This does not impact your academic standing with ASU. ASU’s financial aid team is available at (844) ASU-6693 to answer questions and help you understand how to proceed.

Question 49

How long must I continue working for Starbucks after I achieve my degree?

Accepted Answer

Unlike traditional employer education programs, with SCAP there is no commitment to remain employed with Starbucks after you complete your education. We encourage you to look for opportunities within Starbucks and to take advantage of the career resources offered by both Starbucks and ASU. However, we want to offer you the freedom and support to build your future, wherever you go.

Question 50

What is Pathway to Admission?

Accepted Answer

Pathway to Admission is an expansion of the Starbucks College Achievement Plan benefit. Through this program, Starbucks and Arizona State University provide an admissions pathway for eligible partners who do not initially qualify for admission. Through Pathway to Admission, eligible partners can take up to 10 college-level courses to earn their admission into the university, with credit conversion costs fully covered.,Pathway to Admission provides:,

A personalized plan and support. Every partner’s situation is unique. ASU will work with you to create a personalized admissions plan (including the courses and the GPA you need)
Preparation. ASU offers an orientation course to help you prepare for online learning.
Courses for college credit. You can take courses, and retake them as many times as you need, to get a “C” grade or better. This means you can immediately begin taking ASU classes that, once admitted, count toward your degree at ASU.
An accredited university experience, delivered online. You get the same level of course work and learn from the same world class ASU faculty as partners who are in the Starbucks College Achievement Plan.
Flexibility. Take one course or multiple courses at a time. It’s up to you and your schedule

Question 51

What do I need to do to be eligible for Pathway to Admission?

Accepted Answer

Partners who do not have a bachelor’s degree, have completed the required program application process, and do not initially qualify for admission to ASU are eligible for this program.

Question 52

Do I have to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to submit a FAFSA for Pathway to Admission, but as a best practice, we do recommend submitting one each financial aid year while taking classes for your personalized admission plan so that your paperwork is complete prior to your admission to ASU. Once admitted to ASU, the SCAP program requires that all partners fill out the FAFSA and submit any additional financial aid documents requested by ASU’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Services Office. You must have your financial aid file completed by the start date of your first session and every year thereafter.

Question 53

I’m not eligible yet, but I want to take part in this program. How can I get started?

Accepted Answer

If you are offered and opt into Pathway to Admission, you can register for classes. Please note that you must have established eligibility for Starbucks benefits on or before the final day of the enrolled Pathway to Admission semester to be eligible for credit conversion and fee coverage. If you register for a course and are not yet benefits-eligible, you will be responsible to pay an out-of-pocket $25 verification fee. If you then become benefits eligible on or before the final day of the enrolled Pathway to Admission semester, ASU will reimburse the fee directly to you following the end of semester.

Question 54

What happens if I lose benefits eligibility while I'm in Pathway to Admission? Will I have to pay anything back? Can I stay enrolled?

Accepted Answer

If you were benefits eligible at the start of the semester but lose benefits eligibility during that semester, Starbucks will pay the course credit conversion cost should you elect course credit within 12 months following the end of the course so long as you are employed by Starbucks when you convert the course. You will not be expected to pay anything back but will be responsible for paying for future classes until you regain benefits eligibility. You can continue to take classes while in the process of regaining eligibility, but you will not be eligible for the waived $25 course verification fee and credit conversion coverage until you have regained eligibility.

Question 55

Which classes do I take? How many? What GPA do I need to earn admission to ASU?

Accepted Answer

The classes you will take are specific to you, based on your academic history and intended major at ASU. Most partners will take 4-8 courses through Pathway to Admission before becoming eligible for admission to ASU. You must have at least a 2.75 GPA in your collective Pathway to Admission courses to be admissible to ASU. Partners can receive coverage for up to 10 classes.

Question 56

What if I get below a “C” grade?

Accepted Answer

If you earn a grade lower than a C on a course, it will not be recorded on your academic transcript or count toward your total of 10 course conversions that are paid for through Pathway to Admission. You will have the opportunity to take the course again until you receive the grade you need and are ready to convert the class for ASU academic credit.

Question 57

How much does it cost for fees and books?

Accepted Answer

ASU waives the $25 course verification fee for Starbucks partners who are benefits eligible when they register for Pathway to Admission courses. There are no other out of pocket costs, including books (all materials are open source and accessible within the course for the student). Partners who receive a “C” grade or better can choose to convert a class for ASU academic credit. The credit conversion cost is fully covered by Starbucks for eligible partners.

Question 58

What if I leave/separate from Starbucks while participating in Pathway to Admission?

Accepted Answer

Partners must be employed with Starbucks when the class is converted for academic credit to receive credit conversion coverage. Partners who separate with the company before a class ends can still complete coursework and choose to pay for the class out of pocket if they want to receive credit for the course.,This does not impact your academic or earned admission standing with ASU. The Pathway to Admission support team is available at (844) 691-2244 to answer questions and help you understand how to proceed.

Question 59

I’m participating in Pathway to Admission. Will the $5,250 tax limit impact me?

Accepted Answer

Pathway to Admission is a Qualified Education Plan under Internal Revenue Code section 127. This means there are no taxes on credit conversion coverage for partners unless the Starbucks contribution exceeds $5,250 within one calendar year (at Starbucks this amount is referred to as the Starbucks Tuition Benefit). If the annual tuition coverage exceeds $5,250, the excess amount is reported as taxable income to partners and applicable taxes are required to be paid by the partner.,Most partners in Pathway to Admission will not go above the $5,250 federal limit that Starbucks can provide for your credit conversion coverage tax-free each calendar year. However, Pathway to Admission students who are admitted to ASU should be aware that their credit conversion coverage counts towards the total Starbucks Tuition Benefit in the calendar year. Partners should refer to their paycheck statements to note the amount recorded as PreEDU and PostEDU on the paychecks.

Question 60

If I am admitted to ASU following the Pathway to Admission program, can I apply the credits I’ve earned through Pathway to Admission?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can apply those credits if they are relevant to your intended course of study. Credits earned through Pathway to Admission will not count against the total number of credits Starbucks will cover through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

SCAP overview

What is the Starbucks College Achievement Plan?

Why is Starbucks partnering with Arizona State University (ASU)?

What happens if I switch majors, fail a class or withdraw from a class?

How many classes should I take and what is the time commitment?

Am I required to be a full-time or part-time student to participate in SCAP?

Application process

I want to apply. What do I do?

How soon can I start classes?

I’m not eligible yet, but I want to take part in SCAP. How can I get started?

Eligibility

Who is eligible for the Starbucks College Achievement Plan (SCAP)?

How do I determine if I am eligible to start taking classes?

How do I establish and maintain my Starbucks Benefits eligibility?

How does my initial Starbucks benefits eligibility impact my SCAP participation?

How do the semi-annual Starbucks benefits eligibility audits impact my SCAP participation?

What happens if I lose benefits eligibility while I’m studying at ASU?

Are my family members eligible for SCAP?

I’m a partner and a veteran of the armed services, how can my family member get started?

I'm not a U.S. citizen. Am I eligible to participate in SCAP?

SCAP benefit and financial aid

What does it mean to have a complete ASU financial aid file?

Is there a cap or limit to the number of credit hours covered within the SCAP benefit?

What should I expect to pay upfront/out of pocket for my tuition and fees?

How does the upfront tuition benefit work?

Who can I talk to about my specific financial situation?

Will I have to pay tax on this benefit?

How do I keep track of my total Starbucks Tuition Benefit and plan for tax impacts?

Do I have to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

Degree programs

What types of degrees are offered?

Is an associate degree offered through SCAP?

Are second bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees or doctoral programs offered through SCAP?

What if I want to take part in SCAP, but ASU doesn’t offer the degree program I want?

Is an online degree as valuable as a traditional degree?

Student support

What kinds of support services will I receive as a part of the program?

Will I have access to career services and resources?

Does ASU Online offer disability support services?

What online support services can I receive at ASU?

Is tutoring available for online students?

Getting involved

Can I take advantage of study abroad opportunities at ASU?

How can I connect with fellow SCAP scholars?

How do I get an ASU apron pin?

How do I request SCAP swag, posters or flyers to share at an event?

Can online students live on campus, join clubs and attend campus events?

Transfer info and other colleges

How do I know if my existing credits will transfer to ASU?

Can I attend ASU on campus?

Can I apply the SCAP benefit to my current college/school or attend ASU at the same time?

I’m currently enrolled at another college/school. Would I have to transfer immediately to get this benefit?

Do I need to submit transcripts I received in another country as part of the application process?

Does Starbucks offer any alternate educational assistance?

Leave of absence and separation

What if I take a leave of absence from work?

What if I leave/separate from Starbucks while participating in SCAP?

How long must I continue working for Starbucks after I achieve my degree?

Pathway to admission overview

What is Pathway to Admission?

What do I need to do to be eligible for Pathway to Admission?

Do I have to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

I’m not eligible yet, but I want to take part in this program. How can I get started?

What happens if I lose benefits eligibility while I'm in Pathway to Admission? Will I have to pay anything back? Can I stay enrolled?

Which classes do I take? How many? What GPA do I need to earn admission to ASU?

What if I get below a “C” grade?

How much does it cost for fees and books?

What if I leave/separate from Starbucks while participating in Pathway to Admission?

I’m participating in Pathway to Admission. Will the $5,250 tax limit impact me?

If I am admitted to ASU following the Pathway to Admission program, can I apply the credits I’ve earned through Pathway to Admission?