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Home / Support / Student Support / Access Codes

Access Codes

Students must have an access code for each course that uses WebAssign. This access code is not a password and is not required to log into WebAssign. Once registered, codes become part of a student’s WebAssign account record and cannot be transferred to other students. 

Important! Students need both a class key and an access code to fully access the course. Class keys place you in the correct class. Access codes give you paid access to the class materials. Your instructor provides a class key if he or she has chosen to use self-enrollment for your class. If your instructor chose to upload the roster instead, then there is no class key, and he or she will provide you with your username and password. See your syllabus, or ask your instructor or TA if your class is self-enrolled.

Types of Access Codes

There are five types of access codes.

Online access code purchased through WebAssign

If you purchase access online, it is automatically applied to your account. No additional action is required.

Access code printed in textbook or pamphlet

Follow the instructions given with the code.

Shrink wrapped 5×7 access code card

Confirm that the prefix is correct on the front cover before removing the shrink wrap. The prefix plus access code is on the inside of the card.

Security envelope access code card

Tear off the left, right, and top stubs and the perforations and unfold the envelope. Inside you will see the access code in a box that has a prefix followed by a 16-digit alphanumeric code.

Small access code card

Scratch off the silver coating in the middle of the card to reveal a unique access code. The code has 2 or 3 letters followed by 10 or 11 numbers.

Obtaining Access Codes

Different classes and textbooks require different access codes, so it is always best to wait to purchase your access codes until classes start.

Most codes are valid for one term. If a code is valid for a longer period of time, the duration is stated on the access code card.

There are four ways to obtain an access code:

  1. Purchase a textbook that is bundled with an access code card, and enter the code after logging into WebAssign.
  2. Purchase an access code card separately at your bookstore, and enter the code after logging into WebAssign. Sometimes your bookstore requires you to use VitalSource first to obtain your access code. Reference your receipt for instructions.
  3. Purchase an access code online after logging into your WebAssign account. This method is the easiest because WebAssign automatically provides a correct code for each course. A credit card or PayPal account is needed for this option.
  4. Some institutions, particularly secondary schools, provide access code cards to students. Ask your instructor if you’re unsure.

Refund Policy

If a student drops a class, a refund can be requested within 14 days of the online purchase date. Please go to support.cengage.com, select Refund and complete the prompts.

Note: WebAssign cannot provide refunds for printed textbooks or access code cards purchased from your campus bookstore.

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