On International Editions

International editions textbooks.
International editions textbooks.

It often comes as a surprise to first-year students that the prices for the textbooks required for their studies may reach astronomical numbers. In search of options on how not to pay that much for textbooks, some students opt for international versions of textbooks.

How do international editions differ from the US ones?

International editions are generally identical to US copies. The international edition textbooks difference is in publishing costs, which are significantly smaller in other countries. The benefits of acquiring such editions lie in saving up to 75% of the price. Although these kinds of editions might differ from the US ones in terms of cover quality (paperback instead of hardcover), ISBN numbers, pictures being not color but rather black-and-white, and (in pretty rare occasions) varying exercises at the end of the book, the content is similar. Publishers and authors are also the same as in the US edition. Such copies may be marked with such words as "low-priced" or "international copy." You might need to buy other complementary goods required, like CDs, if they are not included in the pack.

Why do international edition books exist?

Global edition textbooks are sold outside the US in European or Asian countries because many students can't afford to buy textbooks at American prices due to economic conditions. International versions are provided so that the students outside can receive a level of education comparable to the one achievable in US universities. Publishing houses often put labels on their books stating that their distribution is forbidden in the US or Canada (selling international textbooks can be done overseas only) and that their content may not be the same as in the US versions, which is done in order to force people to buy the latter editions.

Legality of selling international textbooks

In 1998, the US Supreme Court concluded that domestic retailers can purchase and import international copies from overseas. Only sellers from other countries are forbidden to distribute such editions inside the US. It's a great opportunity for those willing to save money on textbooks and for students reselling international versions for their own profit.

Smart textbook shopping implies saving as much money as you can. Therefore, smart students try to find cheaper international editions as well as sell their used books at the end of each semester (and get their cash back). Online bookstores like BooksRun provide fast and free shipping to ensure higher savings for students. Our website allows looking for the necessary textbook using ISBN (or a barcode scanner for Android and iOS). However, keep in mind that the international version number may differ, so we suggest searching by title and author insteadl. Thoroughly reading the description guarantees finding the right book.

Updated on November 8th, 2022