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Affordable Access vs. Traditional: The First Day of Class

Feb 6, 2026

Starting a new term is overwhelming.  

 

New schedules, instructors, and expectations, plus the pressure to find and pay for course materials before class even begins. 

 

Day-one access matters.  Students who have materials from the start are better prepared, less stressed, and more likely to succeed. 

 


How does that break down? 


Affordable Access

Traditional Access

Cost & Access

  • Materials provided automatically 

  • Avg. $58 per course 

  • Financial aid applies upfront 

  • Opt-out option available 

  • Must find and purchase materials independently 

  • Avg. $91 per course 

  • Must match exact title and edition 

  • Financial aid reimbursement may take up to 2 weeks 

Student Readiness

  • Materials available on/before first day 

  • Accessed directly through the LMS

  • Learning delayed weeks into the term 

  • Materials may be out of stock 

Academic Impact

  • Assignments completed on time 

  • Student stays engaged from week one 

  • Missed early assignments 

  • Student falls behind before the course gains momentum 


What the Data Shows - With Affordable Access, Students Are: 


27%

more likely to earn a passing grade 

60%

less likely to withdraw 

84%

feel more prepared for class 

81%

say Affordable Access positively impacts success 



Bryant, G., McVety, C. (2025, April). Course Materials in Higher Education. Tyton Partners. https://tytonpartners.com/course-materials-in-higher-education/ 

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