Turn Your Savings Into College Funding - Up to 8:1 Match

Paying for college doesn't have to mean taking on overwhelming debt.

Through our partnership with Earn to Learn, Hughes Federal Credit Union helps Arizona students turn small savings into big opportunities with up to an 8:1 match on your money.

What is Earn to Learn?

Earn to Learn is the largest matched-savings scholarship program in the U.S., designed to help low-to-moderate income students afford college.

When you save for school, your money is matched, multiplying your effort into real tuition support.

  • Save money for college
  • Get matched funds (up to 8x)
  • Receive financial education and coaching
  • Graduate with less student debt

How the Program Works

  1. Apply and qualify for the Earn to Learn program
  2. Open a matched savings account
  3. Save consistently toward your education
  4. Receive matching funds up to $4,000 per year
  5. Use funds for:
    • Tuition
    • Books
    • Fees
    • Approved education expenses

Who is Eligible?

Earn to Learn is designed for:

  • Arizona students attending participating colleges or universities
  • Students from low-to-moderate income households
  • Individuals committed to saving and completing financial education


Earn to Learn alumni share their college success stories.

Noemy Image
Noemy C.

University of Arizona Graduate Student / Public Health

"I come from a low-income family and as a first-generation college student, I had no one to help me navigate the way. Hughes Federal Credit Union and Earn to Learn provided a pathway for me to learn budgeting and valuable financial education. 

I am currently a graduate student in public health and helping my younger siblings with their college paths." 

Hunter Image
Hunter C.
University of Arizona Student / Computer Science

"My family was having significant challenges, so I dropped out of high school.  I returned to school as a Computer Science major to support my family. Earn to Learn and Hughes Federal Credit Union helped get me back on the right track, teaching me to be responsible with my money and plan for my future. Learning about the credit union difference gave me the life goal to never bank anywhere else."


How to get started

Step 1: Learn more about the Earn to Learn eligibility requirements and apply online by visiting, earntolearn.org.  

Step 2: If accepted into the program, you can begin your application to open an Earn to Learn Membership and an Earn to Learn savings account. You can stop by any of our seven branch locations or apply online. 

Please have the following ready to open your Earn to Learn savings account:

One (1) form of personal identification

  • The form of ID must be non-expired government-issued photo identification (can include driver’s license, state-issued ID card, U.S. passport with signature, military ID).

Open IDA Letter to Financial Institution Partner

  • This should be signed by you and your Earn to Learn Success Coach.

Already completed your Enrollment Appointment for the Earn to Learn program?

Start the fast and easy account application process below.

Apply today!


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use funds for expenses beyond education?

Yes, funds can be used for approved education-related costs.

Is financial education required?

Yes, participants complete personal finance training as part of the program.

Do I need to attend school in Arizona?

Yes, the program is for students attending Arizona institutions.

How much can I receive in matching funds?

Eligible students can receive up to $4,000 per year.
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