Answer

MindTap is an online learning site that is used to access required course materials in some classes. If your class uses MindTap, you will see instructions about it in Canvas.

The instructions you will follow vary based on how you paid for access:

Inclusive Access

Some classes provide you with MindTap access right away without you having to go to the Bookstore for it. A Digital Materials Access Fee is charged to your tuition bill. 

Cengage Unlimited

While everyone sees the Cengage Unlimited brand name in MindTap, you are only a Cengage Unlimited subscriber if you paid for it and you have a receipt from the Bookstore. Some students pay for Cengage Unlimited subscriptions because they are taking other classes with Cengage textbooks and get a better deal with the subscription cost.  

Note: If you are a Cengage Unlimited subscriber who is in a class with Inclusive Access, please pay attention to the instructions for opting out of that access so you are not charged twice.

To get the best MindTap experience:

Use Your Full MyMail Email Address 

  • The format is usually firstname.lastname@mymail.nwtc.edu
  • Do NOT use your ID number@nwtc.edu (That is your login for many NWTC systems, but not for MindTap.)

Use an Appropriate Computing Device

  • Use of a full-service computer will provide the best digital experience. Smartphones, iPads, and most Tablets are not likely to have the capacity to connect to all of the digital materials.
  • Chromebook and MacBook users are advised to use the Off Campus Software Access portal for the best digital experience.

Use an Appropriate Browser

  • We recommend Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as they work best to support the digital experience.
  • Internet Explorer, Edge, and Safari may not fully support the connection of all digital materials.

Allow for Pop-Ups of Necessary Websites

  • NWTC student-use computers and the Off Campus Software Access portal are preset to allow the necessary pop-ups.
  • Personal computers will need to allow for the following three websites:
    • nwtc.instructure.com
    • gateway.cengage.com
    • ng.cengage.com
  • Details on setting pop-ups for each of the major browsers can be found here: How to Allow Pop-ups.

Typical Activities Associated with Digital Access to Course Materials:

Inclusive Access Users:

  1. The first time a MindTap link is launched, you will be prompted to create a new user account or to enter your existing credentials.  
  2. For new accounts, use your NWTC mymail address and password.
  3. A link is emailed to your mymail account to verify the account registration. It must be clicked on for the process to complete.
  4. Once your account information has been entered or set up, your account will be linked to your instructor’s class.  
  5. After your Cengage account has been linked, MindTap activities will automatically open in a new tab. 

Cengage Unlimited Users (meaning you have a paid receipt for your subscription):

  1. Register your purchase first using the instructions on the handout or email provided by the NWTC Bookstore and create a Cengage account username and password for later use in the class. 
  2. The first time a MindTap link is launched, you will be prompted to create a new user account or to enter your existing credentials.  
  3. A link is emailed to your mymail account to verify the account registration. It must be clicked on for the process to complete.
  4. Once your account information has been entered or set up, your account will be linked to your instructor’s class.  
  5. After your Cengage account has been linked, MindTap activities will automatically open in a new tab.