2026 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Prefessional Development
Cultivating Talent Through Continuous Learning
As of 2025, student loan debt totals tens of billions of dollars and remains a focus with increasingly higher education costs in the U.S. In 2026, educational benefits to relieve these costs remain an underutilized, albeit powerful, method that organizations can tap into.
In terms of professional development offerings, there was a notable shift away from traditional learning formats, with employers showing a higher priority toward focused, personalized coaching programs. Organizations are prioritizing leadership development and equipping employees with cutting-edge technology for career success.
How Do Your Benefits Stack Up?
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Employers Are Helping Employees Manage Student Loan Debt
43%
offer undergraduate or graduate tuition assistance.
5%
offer a contribution or match for a 529 plan.
10%
offer student loan repayment.
$5,546 was the average maximum student loan repayment assistance, increased by $174 since last year.
Traditional Settings for Professional Development Became Less Common This Year, but Executive and Leadership Coaching Took Center Stage
