Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is updating its BookSmart program, which provides textbooks to undergraduates. Starting in Fall 2026, the program will transition from offering free textbooks to a discounted rate. This change is necessary to comply with new federal financial aid regulations.
Despite the shift, university officials confirm that students will still see significant savings. The new model aims to maintain affordability while ensuring students can use their financial aid for textbook costs.
Key Takeaways
- BookSmart program changes from free to discounted textbooks starting Fall 2026.
- New cost will be $26 per credit hour, or about $780 annually.
- This change complies with new federal Title IV financial aid regulations.
- The program will expand to include dual-credit students.
- Pre-packaged materials will remain a core feature.
Federal Regulations Drive Program Changes
The primary reason for modifying the BookSmart program stems from new federal regulations under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026. University officials explained that the previous free-book model would have negatively impacted students' financial aid eligibility.
Under the new rules, providing free textbooks would count against the total financial aid a student could receive. This could potentially reduce other forms of aid for many students. By moving to a discounted rate, EKU avoids this issue.
Program Savings
Students at EKU will pay approximately $780 per year for textbooks under the new model. This is significantly lower than the national average cost of $1,250 per year for textbooks.
University President David McFaddin emphasized the institution's commitment to student success. "We’ve explored every avenue to find the best solution for our students," McFaddin stated. "We’re pleased to continue offering the BookSmart program at cost, while preserving financial aid eligibility."
BookSmart's History and Evolution
EKU initially launched the BookSmart program in Fall 2021. At that time, it provided free textbooks to approximately 10,000 undergraduate students. The university funded this initiative through a substantial $5.2 million scholarship program.
Initial Goal
When BookSmart began, its main objective was to remove financial barriers that could hinder student success. This goal remains central to the program's mission, even with the upcoming adjustments.
The program quickly became a hallmark of EKU's commitment to affordability. It helped alleviate a significant financial burden for students, many of whom struggle with the rising costs of higher education materials.
New Model Expands Access and Support
The updated BookSmart model will not only comply with federal regulations but also expand its reach. For the first time, dual-credit students will be eligible to participate in the program. This means high school students taking college courses through EKU can also benefit from the discounted textbook rates.
Recognizing that some students might face challenges with the change, EKU has established a dedicated fund. This fund will provide assistance to those experiencing financial hardship due to the program's transition.
"We are committed to ensuring all our students, including our dual-credit learners, have access to the resources they need to succeed," a university official commented.
A key feature of BookSmart will remain unchanged: students will continue to receive pre-packaged, ready-to-go course materials before classes even begin. This ensures that students are prepared from day one, without any delays in acquiring necessary textbooks.
Financial Impact for Students
Under the new structure, students will pay $26 per credit hour for their textbooks. For a typical full-time student taking 15 credit hours per semester, this amounts to approximately $390 per semester, or $780 annually.
While no longer free, this cost is still considerably lower than what most university students across the United States pay. The national average for textbooks often exceeds $1,000, making EKU's offering a significant saving.
- National average textbook cost: $1,250 per year
- EKU BookSmart textbook cost: $780 per year
- 40% savings compared to the national average
This discounted rate allows students to factor textbook costs into their overall financial aid planning. They can use federal loans, grants, and scholarships to cover these expenses, which was not an option when textbooks were entirely free and thus not considered an eligible educational expense for aid purposes.
The university's proactive approach ensures that while the method of delivery changes, the fundamental benefit of affordable and accessible textbooks for EKU students continues.