Education Makes a Difference
The Perpetual Education Fund offers financial aid for individuals seeking to improve their self-reliance through education.
The Church seeks to further self-reliance by creating opportunities for people around the world to learn, progress, and reach their fullest potential. Education plays a vital role in reducing poverty, improving health, and strengthening societies. Gains in education are also linked to economic growth and peaceful conflict resolution. Education instills hope and encourages action.
Education projects in 97 countries worldwide
In addition, 349 Benson Scholarships were awarded.
Resources for Church Members
Two key Church resources designed to support Church members’ education goals are the Perpetual Education Fund (PEF) and BYU–Pathway Worldwide.
PEF is a financial aid program to help students complete education programs that provide in-demand skills for employment or self-employment.
BYU Pathway–Worldwide offers students access to affordable higher education online.
Other education resources made available to Church members include:
- The Benson scholarship program, which helps members obtain post-secondary education in nutrition and agriculture-related fields.
- EnglishConnect, which provides free English instruction for Church members and others.
Resources Provided Generally
The Church’s humanitarian efforts provide textbooks, desks, chairs, teacher training, classroom refurbishment, and more to help students enjoy better access to high-quality education.
Among hundreds of other education-related projects in 2023, the Church donated furnishings, books, and other supplies to rural schools in Tonga that were lacking resources.
Learn More About How the Church Supports Education
Funding Education to Build a Better Future
Argentinians Alfredo and Nadia faced a difficult decision: build a better future by continuing with their studies or maintain their standard of living by foregoing the expensive costs of education. It was beginning to look like the couple’s dreams for the future were in jeopardy until Alfredo learned about the Perpetual Education Fund.
“I was able to access [a] loan…complete my programming studies, and finish my degree successfully,” Alfredo says. “My wife was also able to continue studying what she likes.” Alfredo ultimately landed a great job, and Nadia completed her degree in human resources, opening doors to new opportunities.
What Can I Do?
- Tell others about the Perpetual Education Fund.
- Volunteer at a local school.
- Gift a book to a child.