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What is CAP?
The Course Materials Access Program (CAP) at Central Washington University ensures that every undergraduate student has day-one access to all required textbooks, digital resources, and course packs at a predictable, flat rate per quarter. No more shopping around, unexpected costs, or waiting for financial aid disbursements—CAP puts your learning first.
Launching Fall 2025
Estimated Cost: $249 per quarter*
*Final price determined by Fall 2025
CAP Includes:
- Required digital materials accessed through Canvas for undergraduate students
- Required physical textbooks available for pickup at the Wildcat Shop or shipped for a small fee
- Access codes, course packs, and other required course materials with an ISBN
CAP QuickStart Guide
YOUR TO DO LIST:
Expand each item for more info
| Tentative Key Dates | Fall Quarter | Winter Quarter | Spring Quarter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charge Date | 8/1/25 | 12/1/25 | 3/1/26 |
| First Day of Class | 9/24/25 | 1/6/25 | 3/31/26 |
| Add/Drop Date | 9/30/25 | 1/12/25 | 4/6/26 |
You will see the CAP fixed rate charge appear on your student account on the Charge Date. You have until the end of Add/Drop to finalize your decision regarding utilizing the CAP program. Charges will be finalized and assessed at the Add/Drop date.
These dates are not yet finalized and are subject to change.
How CAP Aligns with CWU's Mission & Values
At CWU, we are committed to providing students with an education that is affordable, innovative, and student-focused. CAP directly supports our university’s core values by:
Access & Affordability
Making education more cost-effective by reducing financial barriers
Academic Excellence
Ensuring every student has the materials they need to succeed
Student Success
Providing consistent, reliable access to learning resources to all undergraduate students
Innovation & Engagement
Leveraging digital-first strategies while supporting faculty’s diverse teaching styles
By reducing the financial burden of textbooks, CAP empowers students to focus on what truly matters—learning, growing, and achieving their academic goals.
Why CAP?
CAP preserves faculty academic freedom while ensuring students receive their required materials in the most affordable and convenient format.
Benefits for Students
- Guaranteed Access: Start learning on the first day of class
- Predictable Costs: A fixed pricing structure means no last minute surprises
- Financial Aid Compatible: Charges appear on your student account, making budgeting easy
- Convenient & Flexible: Get all of your required materials regardless of format
- Opt-Out Option: Not interested? You can opt out before the add/drop deadline
Benefits for Faculty
- No Last-Minute Stress: Early textbook adoptions promote smooth, on-time distribution
- Greater Student Success: Students arrive prepared and engaged from day one
- More Format Choices: Print, digital, OER, and library-licensed materials all supported
- Seamless LMS Integration: Digital resources are accessed via Canvas
- Supports OER Use: Faculty can incorporate free or open-access resources
How do Students support CAP?
Participate!
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The greater the participation, the lower the cost to all our students!
This program is an effort of the entire university. The more we participate together, the lower we can keep prices—helping everyone save.
How do Faculty support CAP?
Conscientious Course Material Selection!
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Focusing on affordable, accessible options!
CWU's faculty considers multiple factors when selecting course materials. Working with CAP, they help reduce costs while ensuring quality and accessibility.
Where do I manage my CAP enrollment?
Canvas!
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Manage your enrollment in Canvas!
Simply login to your Canvas application and manage your CAP or IA enrollment there. You can change your mind as many times as you would like before the end of the Add/Drop period!
Additional Questions?
Our team at the Wildcat Shop is happy to help! Reach out to us by emailing textbooks@cwu.edu, calling us at 509-963-1311, or stop by the store and chat with us in person.
Your education should be about learning—not stressing over textbooks. CAP makes it possible.