Access Codes and Saving Money on Textbooks

Sometimes when you buy a textbook, it will come shrink wrapped with a paper card securely tucked inside. Within the card is an alphanumeric "access code" that allows you to access additional information for your class through the publisher. It may include a digital version of the textbook, videos, quizzes, or homework. Examples of access kits include: MyMathLab, MyLab, Mastering, and others.


Most access cards have a pull tab to remove which then reveals the alphanumeric code. If it has already been removed, the code may not be valid. Once the access code is activated (by registering it online), you can access the online content until the end of the term/semester or until it expires (typically after 3 months or so).

Some teachers integrate the additional software in their classes and others do not. So, here is where you can do a little research and save some money!

1. After you register for class, send your teacher an email and ask if they will be using the access code kit or not. Sometimes the bookstore staff at your college may be able to answer this question for you.

2. If your teacher does require the access code, you can choose to buy the book with the access code OR you can choose to buy the access code all by itself.

3. The advantage of buying only the code is that it will save you money. As long as you don't mind not having a physical textbook and you're OK using a digital version, then skip buying the book. However, if you're a person who needs to write in the margins of your book, then stick with buying the book. (Although, some of the software lets you highlight and bookmark your digital book just like a real book. Also, I like that there is a search bar to quickly look things up in the digital books.) 

4. Access codes can be purchased directly from the publisher's website or through sites like Amazon.com. When I was taking a math class, the textbook came with MyMathLab access code for $185 at the bookstore. However, the eBook and access code from the publisher was only $91. That's was more than 50% savings!

Still, books with access codes can be expensive. So, if your teacher doesn't require the additional software, then you have more options.

5. You can usually find used books (without the access code) that are rather inexpensive. That is because once an access code is activated or separated from the book, the book's value goes down. For example, if a student drops a class in the first week and has already used the access code, their only option is to sell it as "used". That means you can get a low price on a book in practically new condition!

6. Some bookstores are now offering students to rent their textbooks. Bookbyte.com and Amazon.com also offer textbook rentals. Rental fees can be a fraction of the price of a new or used book and it pays to shop around! Once the term is over, you must return the book in the same condition -- meaning NO writing or highlighting. (If you need to write or highlight while you study, use brightly colored sticky notes in the margins instead. Just make sure to remove them before you return your book.)    

7. You can also save money on your textbooks when you buy and sell them through a Book Exchange, where students set their own price. Check with the Student Life Office on campus to see if they have a program. You can also buy and sell textbooks on Craigslist.

8. Another way to save is to check your college library. Some teachers put textbooks on reserve (ask a librarian). You can do your reading and studying at the library without buying the book!

9. If you want a digital version of a textbook and don't need an access kit, you can buy the eBook version of many textbooks through your college bookstore or through Amazon.

10. Finally, some cautions about textbooks and access codes:

• Most bookstores will not allow you to return a textbook for a refund after you have removed the shrink wrap or opened the access code. You'll probably have to sell the book as "used" and take a loss.

• Access codes expire once they are activated, so make sure you only buy new ones, not used. 

• If you buy a book with an access kit and your teacher doesn't require it, you can sell the kit separately on sites like Amazon.com and make some money. Just make sure they are unused and not activated.

• When you shop around for textbooks, make sure you get the same edition your teacher requires. This sometimes require going to the college bookstore and taking a look at the books in person. Some teachers are OK if students use older editions and they are typically less expensive. However, classes in Geography or American Government typically use a new edition every year with the latest information. Find out what your teacher requires, so you get the right book!

• Also, be aware that some books come in a "Texas Edition". Unless your teacher tells you to get this version, don't accidentally buy it thinking it will be the same. It may be arranged differently or contain different material than other editions. So pay attention!