Merit America offers two types of programs. Both include coaching and community support, but they are built for different goals and priced differently:
Career Tracks ($0 upfront, price starts at $5,700): Training programs running 12 to 22 weeks that prepare you for a family-sustaining career. Includes coursework, regular 1:1 and group coaching, and industry credentials. There is nothing to pay upfront, several ways to cover the price, and you will be refunded if you withdraw by the end of Week 5.
Essentials Programs ($0 price): Six-week programs that add a high-demand skill to your resume: Workplace AI Essentials and Job Search Accelerator. Both are fully funded by our philanthropic partners. There is nothing to pay now and no bill later.
Everything below details payment options and terms for our Career Tracks.
Flexible options to cover your Career Track costs:
$0 Down with a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent:
Ascent Funding offers a Zero Percent Loan that you can use to pay for Merit America. You can learn more about the $0 Down With a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent at Ascent Funding.Sponsorship:
Some employers or organizations may partially or fully cover the program costs for eligible learners. Any remaining amount can be covered with self-pay or a Zero Percent Loan. Reach out to your employer to see if they can sponsor your program costs.Pay in Full Up Front:
If you prefer to pay the entire program cost upfront, please send an email to success-sharing@meritamerica.org requesting to pay in full.Opportunity For All:
If you apply for an Ascent Zero Percent Loan and do not qualify, are not sponsored by your employer, and cannot pay in full upfront, you can apply for the Opportunity For All, which will cover 100% of the cost for Merit America. To learn more, reach out to our Admissions team for additional information.
At Merit America, we know starting a new career is a big step and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible. The first five weeks of Career Tracks are yours to decide if it's right for you. You’ll have full access to all coursework, tools, and support from day one. Through the end of Week 5, you can get a full refund if the program isn't a good fit. If you choose to stay after Week 5, our Merit America Guarantee is our promise that if you are not earning at least $40,000 within two years of completing the program, you may be eligible for a full refund.
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