How the Church Supports Lifelong Learning

Classroom
The Lord has instructed us to “seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:118). As such, it is critical that all of God’s children have access to quality education and essential learning resources.

—President Dallin H. Oaks, general conference, Apr. 2009

Education
Education reduces poverty, improves health, strengthens societies, and builds self-reliance. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints supports education in several ways, including:
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PEF Financial Aid Program
The Perpetual Education Fund is a financial aid program for Church members outside the United States and Canada. The program provides greater access to educational training that will lead to better employment opportunities and increased self-reliance.
Young woman holding tablet
Affordable Online Learning
BYU–Pathway Worldwide works in tandem with Brigham Young University–Idaho and Ensign College to provide students with access to affordable online learning. The learning resource is available in more than 180 countries.
BYU Pathways Worldwide - Two African-american men enjoying being together in a room at the church during a class. One of them is holding a hymnbook.
Scholarship Programs
The Benson scholarship program helps individuals obtain post-secondary education in nutrition and agriculture-related fields. Additionally, financial aid such as the Heber J. Grant Tuition Discount and the Returned Missionary Scholarship allow students to receive support for their BYU–Pathway Worldwide education.
Deseret Industries: Saratoga Springs Associates
Deseret Industries Job Training Program
The DI job training program is first and foremost an employment resource that enables associates to develop important workplace skills. Nevertheless, associates enrolled in the program can also receive financial assistance for training that will better prepare them for future employment opportunities.
Young children are in a classroom. There are chairs and tables around the room. Various children are working out of books. This is in El Alto, Bolivia.
Humanitarian Aid
Across the globe, the Church supports humanitarian projects that ensure students and teachers alike have what is necessary for proper learning. This includes:
  • Constructing, refurbishing, and furnishing classrooms.
  • Providing school supplies, computers, equipment, and textbooks.
  • Training teachers.
  • Building latrines.
Support Groups
Self-Reliance Courses
The Church offers free practical courses related to education, namely:
  • EnglishConnect: Free English instruction to help individuals improve their education and employment opportunities.
  • Education for Better Work: A course to help individuals obtain an education that will enhance their quality of life.

Who Is Impacted by This Effort?

Young adult male studying in Bolivia
Prospective Students
The Church offers resources such as financial assistance and affordable learning options to support prospective students on their path to self-reliance.
Teacher and Student in Classroom
Students
The Church’s efforts help students of all ages by providing access to tuition assistance, educational resources, and more.
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Teachers
The Church contributes to effective learning by helping teachers obtain the training and resources needed to lead in the classroom.

How Can I Get Involved?

One of the best ways to get involved in this effort is by learning and sharing what you learn with others. You can also encourage learning in your community by:

  • Telling others about the Perpetual Education Fund.
  • Volunteering at a local school.
  • Gifting a book to a child.
  • Finding education-related service opportunities at JustServe.org.

See What the Church Did in 2023

Learn more about how the Church furthered its goal to help members become educated and self-reliant in the 2023 Caring Summary.
Education in 2023