Student Charge Account FAQ

  • How does a Bookstore Student Charge Account work?
    Parents (or party paying student's tuition bill) will be able to establish a charge limit for the account (minimum limit will be $600) for each semester. At the point of purchase (Textbook Center or Bookstore), student will need to present his/her student ID cards to a cashier. The total dollar amount of the purchase will be added to the student's tuition bill and the charge limit will be reduced by that amount. For example, if a student has a $600 charge limit and makes a $100 purchase, the charge limit would then be reduced to $500 and $100 would be added to the student's tuition bill.

    Online charge form

    Download the student charge account form (PDF)
    (Can't open the file? Download a free reader)

  • Can I use Dining Service "points" at the Bookstore?
    No, Dining Service "points" is a separate program from the Bookstore Student Charge Account program.

  • Do I need to deposit money when I open an account?
    No, purchases will be charged to the student's tuition bill.

  • When will I be billed?
    It varies, but generally at the end of each month. Please note that tuition billing statements may not be sent at the end of September, January, or May. Charges for those months would be included on the October, February and June tuition billing statements.

  • Do I get money back at the end of the semester?
    No, you are being billed for your purchases (similar to a credit card).

  • Do I lose my "points" at the end of the semester?
    A Bookstore Student Charge Account does not use points like Dining Service. Charge limits are placed on the account by parents (or party paying student's tuition bill) at the beginning of each semester. If no purchases are made during the semester, no charges are added to the student's tuition bill. Also, any remaining available credit from the fall semester is not carried over to the spring semester.

  • What if I reach my credit limit and need a higher limit?
    Parent (or party paying student's tuition bill) can mail, fax or e-mail a written authorization for a higher limit. Unless the Bookstore is informed otherwise, phone authorizations will also be acceptable along with the student's signature on the authorization.

  • How soon can a new account become active?
    In most cases, a new account can be activated by the next business day.

  • Do I need to use my student ID card to make a purchase?
    Yes, this will ensure that someone else will not make charges on your Bookstore Student Charge Account.

  • Will the tuition billing statement give a breakdown of the items purchases?
    No, the charge on the tuition billing statement will only be for the total purchases during the billing period.

  • Who should I call if there is a question about my Bookstore Student Charge Account?
    Carol Trottier, Office Coordinator, at 207-725-3182 or ctrottie@bowdoin.edu