Affordable Access Programs Help Students Thrive

Get the facts about Affordable Access programs and learn how they support college affordability, convenience, and student success.

What is Affordable Access?


More than 1,500 colleges and universities nationwide offer Affordable Access programs to help students save money on their textbooks and course materials.
These programs deliver students’ required materials on the first day of class at a significant discount compared to retail prices.

Millions of college students benefit from the cost savings, ease of access, and convenience offered by access programs. Explore the benefits and learn how affordable access programs support affordability and equity in higher education.

  • “My financial aid package automatically covers the cost of these books, and I have the chance to shop around to make sure I’m getting the best price before being charged … It’s no surprise that our student Senate passed a formal resolution in support of access programs in November 2023.”

    Mitali Jain
    Long Beach State University

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$24 per material

The amount students save compared to prevailing market pricing – a 30% decline.

86% of students

stated that affordable access programs made them feel better prepared for class.

$130 million

in total student savings from opt-out access programs during the 2022-2023 academic year.

57% decrease

The amount opt-out access programs have helped lower student spending
over the past decade.

91% of students

find it convenient to have their course materials included with tuition or fees.

83% of students

believe access programs had a positive impact on their academic success.