Affordable Learning Solutions (AL$)

What Is AL$?

CSU's Affordable Learning Solutions Initiative helps faculty find and provide affordable, high-quality course materials, reducing student costs and improving access to education.


Why Does it Matter?

Textbook prices have doubled compared to the rate of inflation over the past 20 years.

High costs negatively impact student success:

• 66% skip buying required materials.
• 37.6% get lower grades.
• 19.8% fail due to lack of textbooks.
• Many take fewer or drop courses due to cost.


(Jones et. al, 2020)

How AL$ Helps

• In AY 2024-25, AL$ saved students an estimated $4,489,879 on their course materials.
• Expands access to free & low-cost learning materials.
• Partners with programs across campus to reduce student expenses.
• Recognizes faculty who help lower textbook costs.

Did You Know?


• AL$ is funded by state & federal sources.

• Public universities in California must label zero-cost courses in schedules.

• All universities in the US must share course material prices at the time of registration.



Want to Know More?

Learn more about our impact by reading our Annual Reports or watching our Resource Videos

Questions?

Contact the AL$ department at als@csudh.edu or 310-243-2062.