Tool Purchasing Frequently Asked Questions

Saving students money on tools is important to us!

The purchase of tools is an investment in your career that will remain with you beyond graduation. NDSCS diligently works through a contract bidding process with leading vendors to ensure we can offer students the best price for the highest quality tools chosen by your instructors. While the tools chosen are not the least expensive available, they are what the students need to complete their education.

Additionally, purchasing your tools from the Bookstore offers you the convenience of knowing you will have the best tools waiting for you when school starts. Skip the hassle, let us do the work for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about tool lists, ordering, payment, special orders, financial aid, and Bookstore contact information.

Who Determines the Tools Required for My Program?

Your instructors determine the required tools for your program. They evaluate available brands, industry standards, student feedback, and their professional experience to select tools that best support learning, safety, and long-term use in your career.

Where Can I Find My Program’s Tool List?

Required tool lists are available in your program’s online Tool Catalogs. Updated tool lists are published each year in early April for the upcoming academic year in collaboration with your instructors.

What Tools Can Be Purchased Through the Bookstore?

Students may purchase both required and optional tools through the Bookstore at the North Dakota State College of Science negotiated educational price.

How Do I Request Tools from the NDSCS Bookstore?

Stop in the Bookstore during new student registration and complete the Tool Request Form. If you are not attending new student registration or forget to submit the form, please contact the Tool Department at 701-671-2349 or email NDSCS.Bookstore@ndscs.edu.

Can I Order an Upgraded Toolbox?

The NDSCS Bookstore offers Snap-On Classic Series tool storage units as optional upgrades. These items are considered special orders and are not eligible for financial aid. Full payment is required prior to order placement.

What If I Am Undecided About Purchasing Tools from the Bookstore?

Submit your Tool Request Form during registration and indicate that you are undecided. Please notify the Bookstore once you have made your decision, or we will contact you prior to finalizing our orders in June. If you decide in July or August to purchase your tools from NDSCS, we will work with our vendors to have your tools available at tool handout or with minimal delay.

What If My Registration Is in July or August?

NDSCS makes every effort to provide tools for all students at tool handout in August. To help ensure availability, you may contact the Bookstore Tool Department prior to your July or August registration to request your tools. Requesting tools earlier allows vendors time to prepare and ship them.

Can I Place Special Orders or Purchase Second-Year Tools?

Enrolled students may purchase additional or second-year tools through the Bookstore and receive the NDSCS negotiated educational price. Please contact the Bookstore Tool Department for more information.

Can Tools Be Returned?

Sales of student tools are considered All Sales Final. In certain circumstances, exceptions may be approved if specific criteria are met. Please contact the Bookstore Tool Department for more information.

What Payment Methods Does the Bookstore Accept?

The Bookstore accepts cash, check, credit card, and student financial aid as forms of payment.

When Is Payment Required for Tools?

• The NDSCS Bookstore does not automatically charge tools to your student account.
• Tools may be charged to your student account after August 1 by completing the payment process at the Bookstore.
• Optional tool storage is considered a special order and requires full payment prior to order placement. Special orders are not eligible for financial aid.
• Tools must be paid for or charged at the Bookstore before the start of the semester in order to receive your department tools.
• Tools are distributed after payment is completed at the Bookstore. If you are unable to complete payment prior to tool handout, please contact the Tool Department to arrange a delayed pickup.
• Tools will not be held on campus without payment or prior arrangements.

Contact Us

Tool Department

Business Affairs Office

Financial Aid

Last updated: March 5, 2026