Book Advances

Book advances give students the opportunity to use some of their financial aid funds in advance of the first disbursement to purchase course materials, supplies and technology (i.e. computer) at the Bristol Bookstore.

To be eligible for a book advance, you will need to have a complete financial aid file, have received a financial aid award letter, and have a pending credit balance on your bill. A book advance is not a grant and is not in addition to your financial aid award package.

The Campus Card is needed for the book advance program. Book Advances are only allowed to be used at the Bristol bookstore (in person or online).  

There are no cash refunds on items returned that were bought with a book advance. Also, you don’t need to spend your entire book advance. All book advance charges are added to your tuition bill.

If your eligibility changes and/or your financial aid award is not enough to cover the book advance charges, you are responsible for repaying the charge. Also, if you drop a class or fully withdraw from Bristol Community College and used the book advance, you may be responsible to pay back all or part of the book advance.

Exchanges and Returns 

Book exchanges and refunds can be made in store with the original receipt within the bookstores return policy. Please stop in store for additional information at the beginning of each semester. If you drop a course during Bristol’s add/drop period, you can return your books to the bookstore for a refund.

In addition, if you purchase books from sellers other than Follett, you may have difficulty returning them if the required book changes or if the course is canceled. Don't waste time or money. Buy your books with confidence from the Bristol campus bookstore. 

Fall 2024 Book Advances

• Book advances open: August 12, 2024.
• Book advances close (online): October 2, 2024.
• Book advances close (in store): October 4, 2024.

Spring 2025 Book Advances

• Book advances open: December 9, 2024.
• Book advances close (online): February 19, 2025.
• Book advances close (in store): February 21, 2025.

Summer 2025 Book Advances

• Book advances open: May 12, 2025.
• Book advances close (online): July 1, 2025.
• Book advances close (in store): July 3, 2025.

Maximum Book Advance Amounts

The book advance amount is based on enrollment level, authorized financial aid, and charges. The maximum value is listed below.

• $1,300 for full-time students (12 or more credits)
• $1,100 for 3/4-time students (9-11 credits)
• $900 for 1/2-time students (6-8 credits)
• $700 for 1/4 time students (less than 6 credits)

A student may meet the eligibility requirements, but not be eligible for the maximum value. An example would be a full-time student with a $200 pending credit balance. Although the full-time limit is $1,300, the student will be eligible for only a $200 book advance.

Purchasing Books

To purchase books, learn about price matching and more, visit our Bookstore page.