Key Points:
- EKU will end free textbooks in Fall 2026, offering them at $26 per credit hour instead.
- The change ensures compliance with new federal financial aid rules.
- Student support continues via discounted rates and a special assistance fund.
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) will discontinue its free textbook program, BookSmart, beginning Fall 2026 due to new federal financial aid regulations. The university says the move is necessary to comply with upcoming Title IV rules while still helping students reduce academic expenses.
Textbooks to Be Offered at Discounted Rate
Starting next fall, textbooks will no longer be free for undergraduates. Instead, EKU will offer materials at a discounted rate of $26 per credit hour, which averages about $780 per year. This remains significantly below the national average textbook cost of $1,250, according to university data.
The change comes as EKU works to align with new federal guidelines taking effect on July 1, 2026, under the Higher Education Act. These regulations would treat free textbook programs as part of students’ financial aid packages, potentially affecting eligibility. The new model allows textbook costs to be covered by aid while keeping overall expenses lower than the national norm.
“We’ve explored every avenue to find the best solution for our students,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “We’re pleased to continue offering the BookSmart program at cost, while preserving financial aid eligibility.”
BookSmart Program Background
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) launched BookSmart in Fall 2021, providing free textbooks to about 10,000 undergraduate students through a $5.2 million scholarship initiative funded directly by the university. The program was designed to remove financial barriers and improve academic readiness by ensuring students had the required course materials from day one.
Over the past four years, BookSmart has been a defining feature of EKU’s student support strategy. By delivering prepackaged course materials before classes began, the initiative reduced both costs and logistical hurdles associated with textbook purchases.
University leaders credit the program with improving retention and reducing equity gaps for students from lower-income backgrounds.
Adjustments and Student Support
While the upcoming shift ends the era of free textbooks, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) officials emphasize that affordability and access remain central goals. The new format not only meets federal compliance standards but also expands to include dual-credit students for the first time — allowing high school students enrolled in college-level courses to benefit from discounted materials.
To further support those who may face financial hardship, EKU is establishing a special assistance fund to help offset textbook costs. The university confirmed that the program’s hallmark feature will continue unchanged.
“Our priority has always been to help students start every semester fully prepared,” McFaddin said. “This update keeps that commitment alive while ensuring long-term program stability.”
Focus on Student Readiness and Financial Sustainability
As universities nationwide adapt to evolving federal aid policies, EKU’s updated BookSmart program demonstrates how institutions can maintain affordability while staying compliant. By shifting to a cost-based model, the university aims to balance fiscal responsibility with student support.
Even with the policy change, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) officials say the revised program remains one of the most cost-effective textbook options in higher education. Students will continue to receive the same level of service with textbooks bundled, delivered, and ready before the first day of class, ensuring academic readiness without financial stress.
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