Federal Regulations
Understanding the rules for automatic billing.
The Inclusive Access automatic textbook billing model is regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. Understand the requirements to ensure your campus follows the rules.
34 CFR § 668.164(c)(2)
§ 668.164 Disbursing funds.
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(c) Crediting a student's ledger account.
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(2) An institution may include the costs of books and supplies as part of tuition and fees under paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section if —
(i) The institution—
(A) Has an arrangement with a book publisher or other entity that enables it to make those books or supplies available to students below competitive market rates;
(B) Provides a way for a student to obtain those books and supplies by the seventh day of a payment period; and
(C) Has a policy under which the student may opt out of the way the institution provides for the student to obtain books and supplies under this paragraph (c)(2). A student who opts out under this paragraph (c)(2) is considered to also opt out under paragraph (m)(3) of this section;
(ii) The institution documents on a current basis that the books or supplies, including digital or electronic course materials, are not available elsewhere or accessible by students enrolled in that program from sources other than those provided or authorized by the institution; or
(iii) The institution demonstrates there is a compelling health or safety reason.