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The Bookstore Sponsorship Program

A Sponsor is an entity that funds the cost of a student's books and/or supplies. Examples include Indigenous Bands, Employers, and Government Departments. We are delighted to offer this unique opportunity for sponsors and students to collaborate and make a meaningful impact on education together. Whether you are a sponsor looking to support students' access to educational resources, or a student seeking assistance with books and supplies, you will find the essential details about our Sponsorship Program below.

The Bookstore is your resource for academic books and supplies. To sponsor tuition or other student fees, see Tuition Sponsorship.

Information for Sponsors

As a sponsor, you have the opportunity to directly support students in acquiring the books and supplies they need for their education. By investing in these resources, you help create a level playing field and empower students to thrive academically. Here is what you need to know:

  • Setting up your students' account: Sponsors must complete the Bookstore Sponsorship Form for each student. The form determines the terms and conditions of the student's spending account and should be completed in full to ensure accurate use of funds. Disputes are to be dealt with between the sponsor and student.
  • Invoicing: At the end of the term, the Bookstore will invoice the sponsor for all eligible student purchases. Payment is due within 30 days of issue.
  • Staying updated: If you need to make any changes to the student's sponsorship terms, or you have any questions about the program, reach out to us at bookstore.sponsored.students@ualberta.ca. We encourage you to submit completed Bookstore Sponsorship forms before the start of a new semester to ensure students have timely access to their academic resources.

Information for Students

We are committed to helping students access the resources necessary for academic success. Here is what you need to know as a sponsored student:

  • Your sponsorship status: Before visiting the Bookstore, confirm with your sponsor that they have completed the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Purchases cannot be processed until your sponsor has sent the Bookstore a completed Bookstore Sponsorship Form.
  • Purchasing your books and/or supplies: Use the Course Materials Search or refer to your class syllabus to find out what materials are required for your courses. Then you can visit the Bookstore with your student ID (OneCard) and shop for your textbooks! When you are ready to check-out, inform the cashier that you are a Sponsored Student and the eligible items will be charged to your sponsor. Please note that your sponsorship funds cannot be used for online purchases.
  • Getting help: If you have any questions or concerns regarding your sponsorship, contact us at bookstore.sponsored.students@ualberta.ca. Please include your student ID number in the email. We want to ensure that you have the tools you need to excel in your studies!

Sponsored Student FAQ

Refer to your class syllabus, or use the course materials search to determine what materials are required for your course.

Contact us at bookstore.sponsored.students@ualberta.ca. Let us know what book you need and we will put you on a waiting list to be contacted as soon as it is available.

Contact us at bookstore.sponsored.students@ualberta.ca and we will arrange to have your books shipped to you. If your sponsor does not cover the cost of shipping, you are required to pay the associated shipping fees. Digital textbook options may also be available for instant access!

Your sponsor indicates what your funds can and cannot be used for. If an item is determined to be ineligible at checkout, you will not be able to purchase it with your sponsorship funds. Disputes are to be dealt with between the sponsor and student.

Tip: Bring a backpack or reusable bag with you to the Bookstore! Your sponsorship will not cover the cost if you need to purchase a reusable Bookstore tote bag.

Your instructor may expect you to purchase the text from another bookseller, but your sponsorship funds can only be used towards purchases at the U of A Bookstore. Contact us at bookstore.sponsored.students@ualberta.ca to inquire about placing a special order for the textbook that you need.