At Merit America, we frequently talk about our Guarantee—and with good reason. This policy underscores our no-nonsense approach to helping people land jobs. Simply put, if you follow all the steps in our program and don’t land a full-time job paying $40,000 or more within two years of completing the program, you’ll be eligible for a full refund or cancellation of your Ascent Zero Percent Loan, should you have opted for it.
But there’s more to it than that. To fully understand the ins and outs of the Merit America Guarantee, keep reading. Here’s everything you need to know.
How does the Merit America Guarantee Work?
Even with our Guarantee, there’s no magic involved—getting real results requires your commitment and effort. If you stay engaged, fully participate in the program, and put in a good-faith effort but still don’t land a job above threshold within two years, you may be eligible for a full refund or loan cancellation.
Here’s what we expect from you:
- Complete the Program:
You must finish the program you’re enrolled in, including both the Foundations and Immersion Phases. These are crucial for gaining the technical know-how and job-market insight that will set you up for success. To qualify for the Guarantee, you must complete the program or have an exit week no later than Week 5. - Select Your Payment Option:
If you’ve paid upfront or chosen the $0-upfront payment option with Ascent Funding, you’re eligible for the Guarantee. - Report Your Outcomes:
To qualify for the refund, you must complete both the six- and twelve-month post-program surveys within two weeks of receiving them. These surveys help us support you and track your progress toward securing a job.
📌 Related Reading: How Much Does Merit America Cost and What’s Included?
What Do You Get In Return?
In short: if you put in the work, you’ll receive the support you need. Our alumni experience an average wage gain of $24,000 three or more months after program completion—proof that our program delivers results.
From day one, you’ll receive career coaching and technical guidance with a clear focus on helping you secure a job. Plus, we make your investment risk-free by allowing you to cancel your loan and opt out of the program within the first five weeks with no penalty.
But Merit America is more than just technical training—it’s a full support system that’s designed to get you hired. Our curriculum, shaped by industry experts, focuses on teaching you the hard skills you need, while our wraparound services ensure that you’re equipped with everything else to succeed.
No matter what industry you’re coming from—whether it’s retail, food service, teaching, or warehouse work—Merit America meets you where you are.
In the Foundations phase, you’ll work closely with coaches and peers to polish your resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn profile. You’ll learn how to showcase your transferable skills, certifications, and experience in a way that resonates with employers. It’s not just about learning new skills; it’s about making sure your existing experience shines through as an asset to your future career.
Once you’re ready, we transition to the Job Success Phase, where the real magic happens. This is where your career coach gets to work, guiding you through mock interviews, connecting you with recruiters, and helping you tailor your job search strategy to stand out in a competitive market.
Additional Learner Support Includes:
- Mental Health Sessions: Access confidential counseling sessions (phone, video, or in-person) to support emotional well-being.
- Legal Consultations: Receive expert advice on retirement planning, taxes, and other legal matters.
- Financial Advising and Planning: Get professional help to manage your finances and secure your future.
- Community Resource Referrals: Connect with trusted providers for family care, lifestyle support, and more.
- College Planning and Life Coaching: Access expert guidance on educational opportunities and personal growth.
- Extensive Resources: Use a range of checklists, informative materials, and curated resources for guidance.
Additional Alumni Support Includes:
- Perspectives Wellness Program: Gain exclusive access to our holistic wellness program, supporting physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Virtual Events: Participate in engaging events hosted by our program events team.
- Monthly Alumni Newsletter: Stay updated with volunteer opportunities, networking events, job openings, and more.
- Continuing Education Credits: Pursue lifelong learning with our partner institutions, including Northeastern University, Golden Gate University, University of North Texas, and Western Governors University.
- Lifetime Coursera Access: Enjoy ongoing learning opportunities through the Coursera catalog available to alumni.
Break Into Tech with the Merit America Guarantee
The Merit America Guarantee is designed to give you peace of mind as you embark on your tech career journey, but it’s natural to have questions.
Whether you’re curious about eligibility requirements, the Merit America Guarantee, or how our program can help you achieve your career goals, our advisors are here to assist.
Contact our admissions team today to get the answers you need to move forward confidently, or explore our Career Tracks to see what they offer: