XB12 Data Information
As part of our compliance with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and recent legislation promoting transparency and burden-free access to instructional materials, Cerritos College must report an XB12 data element for every course section offered in Spring 2026. The XB12 code is used to indicate whether a course section is Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) or Low Textbook Cost (LTC).
Definitions
- ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost): Courses where students do not have to purchase a textbook, workbook, or homework system. All required instructional materials of this type are free.
- LTC (Low Textbook Cost): Defined by the Faculty Senate, these are courses where required textbooks/course materials cost $50 or less (new price at the bookstore).
Important Clarification:
The XB12 attribute applies only to textbooks and related course materials (e.g., books, workbooks, homework systems). It does not include materials fees. For example, costs for items such as nursing kits, art supplies, chemistry goggles, uniforms, or calculators must still be listed for students to ensure transparency, but they do not affect whether a course is coded as ZTC or LTC.
What’s Changing?
Until now, faculty have only indicated whether their section is Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) or Low Textbook Cost (LTC). However, the Chancellor’s Office now requires more detailed reporting using specific letter codes that describe the type of instructional materials used.
You will be asked by your division to report the appropriate XB12 code for each section you teach.
What Do the XB12 Codes Mean?
Here’s a quick reference guide to help you determine which code applies to your section:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A | No associated course material. (ZTC) |
| C | Course materials are provided at no cost to students. (ZTC) |
| D | Low-cost course materials (as defined locally). (LTC) |
| E | Only no-cost, Open Educational Resources (OER) used. (ZTC) |
| F | Only no-cost digital materials that do not meet OER guidelines. (ZTC) |
| G | Mix of no-cost OER and other resources, but no cost to students. (ZTC) |
| Y | Does not meet ZTC or LTC criteria. (N/A) |
Additional Resources
Need support determining the correct ZTC or LTC code to report for your course section?
Visit the XB12 Course Code Chooser ChatBot
Looking for examples on which ZTC may apply to your course?
VISIT THIS GUIDE TO CHOOSING A ZTC & LTC – XB12 CODE FOR YOUR COURSE SECTION
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