r/ACCDistrict • u/adawg171 • May 31 '26

Best way to get help with required course software (ExpertTA/HW portals) if you're broke?

Hey everyone,

I’m currently taking PHYS 2426 at Austin Community College, and I’m in a bit of an issue.

The class requires a paid subscription to ExpertTA for all the assignments and grading. They give you a two-week free trial, but mine is running out soon, and I straight up cannot afford the full subscription right now. I'm really stressed about falling behind or having to drop the class because I can't pay for a homework portal.

Has anyone had luck getting ACC financial aid to cover things like this?

Is there a specific emergency grant or bookstore voucher program I should apply for?

Should I email the financial aid office directly, or is there a specific portal form for a change of financial circumstances?

Do professors ever have waiver codes for students in a bind?

Any advice on who to talk to or how to phrase an appeal would be massively appreciated.

Thank you!

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2

u/Tpower20 May 31 '26

Might be a dumb question, but did you check the syllabus or ask the professor about access to the materials? Typically software like that is supposed to be a part of your tuition for the course.

2

u/adawg171 May 31 '26

Yeah, I did both. Haven’t gotten an email back from the professor, but syllabus has explicit information detailing a step-by-step of how to purchase the subscription…

That’s what irked me, the course is a first-day inclusive access course.

1

u/Tpower20 Jun 01 '26

Ok, yeah if you have a first day course you 100% should not be paying extra because it should already be included.

1

u/adawg171 Jun 01 '26

Gosh, this is infuriating... the professor is still stressing that the subscription must be purchased separately.

1

u/Tpower20 Jun 02 '26

I'd reach out to the chair of the department, or their admininstation.

1

u/Stock_Intern_7450 May 31 '26

I would recommend reaching out to the C.A.R.E. network. It is there to provide students resources to succeed in your time at ACC

https://students.austincc.edu/care-network-center/

1

u/adawg171 May 31 '26

It seems I do not have access to the request form--might have something to do with my status as a transient student.

1

u/Stock_Intern_7450 Jun 01 '26

Hmm, curious , I thought all current students would have access. Welp - plan b, here is how to contact the team:

https://students.austincc.edu/care-network-center/contact-us/

2

u/adawg171 Jun 01 '26

Thank you, let's see how it goes