OCSEA has launched a new union discount college benefit option that offers up to 50% discounted college tuition rates for all OCSEA members and their extended family. While we know many were disappointed at the U.S. Department of Education’s decision to shut down the union’s Free College program, OCSEA is committed to helping members and their family with the high price of higher education. Spring start dates are in January and March, so there's plenty of time to apply!
One way the union is helping with those costs is by partnering with the EBS Network of Colleges and Universities, which is comprised of regionally accredited institutions that are committed to providing deeply discounted tuition rates to our union members and their families, ensuring accessibility and affordability for higher education. Whether you are interested in pursuing an Associate, Bachelor's, or Master's degree, or seeking to enhance your professional skills with undergraduate or graduate certificates, the network has a comprehensive range of over 50 + online degree programs and certificate offerings.
To explore the available programs and learn more about all the discounts offered, OCSEA members and their family members are encouraged to visit OCSEA’s College Benefit website at: EBSunioncollegebenefit.org/OCSEA. If one of the programs is of interest, then simply complete the Request Your Match form.
Once potential students complete that form, an admissions counselor—who is employed by the college or university from where the person has been matched—will contact them. The admissions counselor will guide them through the admissions process, discuss career goals and program options, and answer any questions.
We are all saddened by the department of education’s decision to end the free college benefit, but we believe that education is a lifelong journey, and we aim to make that journey both accessible and rewarding. We are committed to providing opportunities that empower our union members and their families to reach their full potential.
Keep in mind the discounted college rate is in addition to any internal or federal grants or scholarships awards that may be applicable to reduce out-of-pocket costs even further.