Usually the school first applies your grant money toward your tuition, fees, and room and board. Money left over is paid to you directly for other education expenses like the books you need.
can you give me any help with online materials I need for a class?
Your school may have negotiated a deal with the publisher that will allow you online access at a fraction of the cost you would pay for a physical book.
when do they usually gives us the financial aid for books?