In alignment with university goals for student success, academic excellence and curriculum innovation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, we encourage and advocate for the adoption of affordable course materials wherever possible in NIU courses.
Textbook and Supplies Costs are Significant
The cost for textbooks and supplies are well-known in higher education, as the College Board (PDF) recommends first-year students budget $1,240 per year for books and supplies. Yet, do students realize these costs, let alone are they able to afford these textbook costs?
Students Deciding Based on Cost
Students make decisions based on cost. In one study, 66% of students say they decided against buying a textbook because the cost was too high.
Textbook Costs Influence Enrollment Decisions
Textbooks costs do influence enrollment decisions. In another study (PDF), 50% of students say they have at some point taken fewer courses due to the cost of textbooks.
Students Not Purchasing Latest Edition
And, students often do whatever they can to save costs, including not purchasing the latest edition. It’s estimated that less than 50% of students purchase a current edition of their textbook.