STATISTICS

The U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund conducted a survey that showed that 65% of students had decided not to buy textbooks as it was expensive. The survey also found that 94% of students who had foregone purchasing a textbook were concerned that it might hurt their grades in that particular course by doing so. So, the study suggests that almost half of the students felt a substantial concern for their degrees.

SOURCE: U.S. PIRG Education Fund

In 2021, the average annual cost of books and supplies for full-time undergraduate students attending a four-year university was approximately $1240.00, with students spending the most (on average, $1420) at public two-year colleges, compared to $1220 at private four-year colleges (on average, $450–$625 per semester).

In 2020, 25% of students indicated that they worked extra hours for purchasing their books and study materials, and 11% skipped meals for affordability.

In 2020, 19% of students indicated the cost of materials and books directly influenced their decision to decide the schedule of classes.

SOURCE:  Education Data Initiative