Financial Aid at the Bookstore - FAQ

When can I use my financial aid at the bookstore? 

Students who have excess financial aid funds available can purchase course materials at the bookstore from December 18, 2024, through January 31, 2025. Course Materials for ALL SPRING TERMS should be purchased at this time. The funds available after your course fees are paid will be added to your PantherCard. You must have your Palm Beach State College PantherCard on hand (physical or virtual) to make the purchase.

Students should speak to a financial aid advisor if they have questions regarding eligibility.

How does Financial aid Work? 

Watch the video for a breakdown of bookstore financial aid.

 

What if the bookstore does not have my book in stock?

Request to pre-pay for the book and the bookstore will call you when it arrives at the store.

Is the bookstore open on the weekends?

Some extended hours may be available during the financial aid period.  View bookstore hours.

How do I pay for books with financial aid?

Please note that we have added the ability for you to ship your bookstore purchases to your home address (shipping charges may apply).

After you have selected all of your books, take your books and your Panthercard to the cashier at the bookstore. Tell the cashier that you are using financial aid and give them your PantherCard. Your PantherCard will be used to verify that you have funds available and the purchase will be deducted from your bookstore funds. For online purchases, you will need to enter the 14 digit number from the back of your PantherCard to make the purchase.

Are bookstore funds separate from my financial aid award?

No, the bookstore allowance on your PantherCard is a portion of your financial aid award that is listed on Workday.

Why does my friend have more money for books that I have for books?

Your bookstore allowance is calculated based on several factors, including your enrollment and amount of excess aid available. You can check your available balance at any time by viewing your PantherCard online card account. Questions about the amount of your bookstore allowance should be referred to your campus financial aid office. Why is there no money on my card for books?

Financial aid funds are added to the PantherCards each morning. If you just registered for classes today, please check back tomorrow to see if your funds have been added. If you have been registered for more than 24 hours, please contact your campus financial aid office.

Can I rent books with my financial aid?

Yes, you can use your financial aid to pay the initial rental fee for your books; however, you will need to provide the bookstore with a credit or debit card for collateral in case the book is not returned.

To make rentals easier, be sure you have signed up for a rental account before you get to the store. Visit www.FollettRental.com from your phone, tablet, or computer to register if you have never rented before. 

Can I purchase books online with my financial aid?

Yes! Students can purchase books online from the Palm Beach State Bookstores. To use your financial aid online, select "Financial Aid" as the form of payment. You can select store pick up or have the books shipped to you (shipping charges may apply). This is a great way to avoid the long lines and practice social distancing. Don't forget to bring your PantherCard with you to the bookstore if you selected store pickup. To find your books, visit the bookstore website or click follow these instructions.