The cost of textbooks has gone up, which is one of the factors driving up college costs. The average cost of textbooks and other school supplies for the 2020–2021 academic year is $1,240, according to data from the College Board. According to research done in 2021 by the manufacturer of educational products Follett, the price of textbooks has risen by 812% since 1978.

Even while slightly more than $1,200 may not seem like much compared to tuition prices, some students may find it difficult to cover these costs. 65% of students opt not to buy textbooks, and students who are food insecure are more likely than their peers to opt not to buy access passwords for online course materials, according to a study by the U.S. Public Interest Study Group (PIRG).

In light of these numbers, some contend that all college students should receive free textbooks. But does that make sense? Should college students receive free textbooks?

Let's look at some of the issues with textbook costs and debate whether or not college students should receive Free Textbooks.

Why are college textbooks so expensive?

Students rarely have a choice in what they purchase because there is minimal competition in the market for textbooks. As a result of this situation, textbook prices are also rising. In other words, textbook publishers don't have to worry about their prices being undercut because they can set their own prices and bundle access codes so that the student after them must buy the complete bundle.

PIRG estimates that four out of five college courses require access codes with the textbooks. Additional information, such as tests and worksheets, is available with these access credentials. Once they have run out, the access codes cannot be used. The textbook is typically discounted for subsequent students, but the access codes are not.

Due to budgetary constraints (especially during the recent pandemic) and unstable internet connectivity, it is not unexpected that 21% of students skipped getting access credentials, even if doing so resulted in a grade drop since they were unable to use the necessary resources.

advantages of receiving free college textbooks

  • Since college tuition and other expenses continue to be a barrier, adding free college textbooks could relieve the load on students.
  • According to some educators, free course materials and college textbooks produce superior outcomes. Free college textbooks increase completion rates and improve student grades.
  • Because of the high cost of textbooks, students' budgets are stressed in situations like the global pandemic, and they may opt to skip meals or put off other expenses. They will have money left over to cover other costs if they receive free textbooks.

How to Reduce the Cost of College Textbooks

Regardless of whether you think college students should receive free textbooks, you may still need to pay for the necessary course materials. Finding methods to lower the price of college textbooks is essential. Consider these money-saving tips even though some people disagree with the idea of free textbooks for college.

Utilize your school's library.

Your college's library has access to textbooks. Save money on textbooks by borrowing them for free from the campus library. As long as you don't need an access code, it can be the most practical solution to cut costs.

Students can share materials.

If at all possible, think about dividing resources among classmates. You can spend less by sharing resources and dividing costs fairly. However, depending on how access codes are set up, this may not work in all classes.

Compare costs

Don't presume that the college bookstore will always offer the best value. Find out if there is a less expensive option by searching online.

Look for textbook subscription programs.

In some cases, you might be able to access all of your textbooks through a subscription service for a lower monthly cost. Look into your options to see what's available.

For funding and other efforts, speak with your school.

Some institutions provide grants and other programs so that low-income students can more easily acquire the course materials. If you are unable to afford textbooks, talk to someone about your options. You may be able to obtain free textbooks or access credentials. You might be able to get help.

To sum up

While some think that Free College Textbooks are necessary to expand access and support for students, it's unlikely that this will happen anytime soon. Publishers of textbooks have a monopoly on the market, and many people still value the idea of paying for some aspects of education.

If more isn't done to bring down the price of college textbooks, the cost will probably continue to rise. Institutions must focus on making textbooks more affordable for students in order to solve this problem.