The Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents approved a policy revision on Mar. 11 to strengthen the use and identification of no-cost and low-cost instructional materials across its institutions.
The move aims to help students and families better understand and manage the cost of attending college by clearly marking courses that use affordable or free required materials in registration systems. According to the College Board’s most recent Trends in College Pricing report, students at public institutions budget between $1,290 and $1,520 per year for books and supplies, depending on the sector. The clearer identification of such courses is expected to provide greater cost savings and predictability as families prepare for higher education expenses.
Under the updated policy, “no-cost” instructional materials are defined as those with a total list price of $0, while “low-cost” materials are those with a total list price greater than $0 but no more than $40 for all required materials in a single course for one term. Class or laboratory fees and equipment are not included in this calculation. Many qualifying courses rely on Open Educational Resources (OER), which are either public domain or openly licensed, allowing free access for students and flexibility for faculty.
“Access is about more than admission. It is about making sure students have the tools they need to succeed once they are in the classroom,” said Board of Regents Chair Byron Brooks. “Expanding access to no-cost and low-cost learning materials helps ensure every student has the resources they need to succeed.” Regent Joe Arrascada, Chair of the Academic, Research and Student Affairs Committee, said: “This is thoughtful academic policy that supports student success. Encouraging the use of open educational resources and other low-cost learning materials helps reduce barriers for students while preserving faculty flexibility in selecting course materials. Clearly identifying these courses will also help students make more informed decisions as they plan their schedules.”
Faculty at NSHE institutions will continue choosing instructional materials for their courses under this revised policy, which encourages using no-cost or low-cost options while maintaining academic freedom. Chancellor Matt McNair said: “When students have access to required materials from the first day of class and clearer information about cost, they are better positioned to stay on track and complete their programs. Completion drives opportunity. As more Nevadans earn degrees and credentials, they strengthen their own futures and contribute to a more resilient and competitive workforce for our state.”
Institutions must implement these updated requirements by July 1, 2026. The revision fulfills requirements outlined in Assembly Bill 345 from the 2025 Nevada State Legislature session.
The Nevada System of Higher Education promotes values including equity, excellence, and inclusion to benefit the community according to the official website. It encompasses institutions such as University of Nevada, Reno; University of Nevada, Las Vegas; two doctoral-granting universities; one state university; four community colleges; one research institute; all operating through campuses across Nevada according to its official website. A Board of Regents consisting of 13 elected members directs policies for NSHE according to its official website. The system focuses on delivering quality higher education and advancing knowledge for regional advancement according to its official website.
