Book Advance

Important Notice: Using Financial Aid to Purchase Books

Students who receive a Federal Pell Grant may be able to receive an advance of their financial aid to help purchase books and supplies. This is called a Book Advance.

To be eligible, you must have financial aid funds remaining after your tuition and fees have been paid. If you qualify, the book advance will be paid directly to you.

All registered students who have their Pell Grant finalized and posted in their CUNYfirst account, and who still have financial aid remaining after tuition and fees are covered, may be eligible for a book advance.

Please note: If you withdraw from some or all of your classes or do not attend your classes, you may be responsible for repaying some or all of the book advance funds. If you think this may apply to you, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

How the Book Advance Is Paid: Book advance payments are issued using one of the following methods:

  • Direct Deposit into your checking or savings account
  • Paper check mailed to the home address listed on your record
FAFSA Image for 2024-25

Students who are not enrolled in Direct Deposit will receive their book advance as a paper check. We strongly encourage students to sign up for Direct Deposit to receive financial aid refunds faster in the future.

Students who have not yet applied for financial aid or have outstanding documents to submit should allow up to 6 weeks for processing. To avoid delays in receiving a book advance, please submit all required documents as soon as possible.

Revised: March 17, 2026