How Affordable-Access Programs Are Transforming Higher Education
In a time when the cost of higher education continues to rise, one bright spot stands out: course materials are becoming more affordable. Thanks to innovative affordable-access programs, students today are saving money and achieving better academic outcomes.
Key Takeaways from the Report
1. Affordable-Access Programs Save Students Money
Opt-out affordable-access models, such as Inclusive Access (IA) and Equitable Access (EA), offer course materials at prices 36% lower on average compared to traditional digital list prices. Students typically pay $58 per course instead of $91. These programs have helped slow the rise of course material costs, with the annual growth rate dropping from 6.1% to just 0.3% since federal regulations were introduced in 2015.
2. Day-One Access Improves Student Success
One of the biggest benefits of these programs is guaranteed day-one access to all required materials. Research shows that students with day-one access are more likely to succeed:
- At Onondaga Community College and Technical College of the Lowcountry, students were 27% more likely to pass and 60% less likely to withdraw.
- Black and multiracial students, in particular, saw pass rate improvements of 54% and 50% respectively.
3. Opt-Out Models Drive Higher Participation and Equity
Institutions overwhelmingly prefer opt-out models because they ensure near-universal participation (96% participation rate) compared to only 36% under opt-in models. Opt-out programs especially benefit first-generation and low-income students, helping close achievement gaps that persist in traditional and opt-in models.
4. Stakeholders Strongly Support Affordable Access
Students, faculty, and administrators report high satisfaction:
- 84% of students in IA programs felt better prepared for classes.
- 81% said these programs positively impacted their academic success.
- Faculty and administrators highlight cost savings, improved preparedness, and streamlined financial aid integration as major advantages.
5. Administrative Ease Favors Opt-Out
Managing an opt-out program is significantly simpler than an opt-in model. In opt-out systems, only a small fraction of students (about 4%) opt out, minimizing administrative burden. In contrast, opt-in models create complex, resource-intensive processes that few institutions are equipped to handle efficiently.
Real-World Impact: Case Studies
Institutions like Dallas College, Florida State College at Jacksonville, and North Carolina A&T State University have demonstrated dramatic improvements after implementing opt-out models:
- Students saved up to $835 per year.
- Course completion and retention rates improved notably.
- Participation soared to 96-98%, ensuring equitable access to learning materials.
Even institutions like North Carolina State University, which initially used an opt-in model, are now transitioning to opt-out after facing persistent low participation and student frustration.
In short, affordable-access programs—especially opt-out models—are a proven solution to reduce costs, improve equity, and boost student success in higher education. As more institutions embrace these models, they pave the way for a more affordable and accessible future for all students.
Sources:
Bryant, Gates, et al. “Investing in Tomorrow: Lifetime Value of Financial Education in High School.” Tyton Partners, Tyton Partners, 12 Mar. 2024, tytonpartners.com/investing-in-tomorrow-2024/.
Bryant, Gates, et al. "Course Materials in Higher Education: How Affordable Access Programs Save Students Money and Produce Positive Learning Outcomes." Tyton Partners, Tyton Partners, 28 Apr. 2025, tytonpartners.com/course-materials-in-higher-education/.
