Summer Math Program Common Questions
Program Overview
Why should I participate in the AwesomeMath Summer Program (AMSP)?
How is the AwesomeMath Summer Program different from other math programs?
AwesomeMath’s primary focus is on problem-solving. We use it as a tool to enhance students’ interest and skills in mathematics. We believe that there are two major parts in advanced mathematics teaching and learning: higher concepts (introducing and developing new concepts) and applying them creatively to concrete problems. These two areas rely on each other, but we focus primarily on the latter. We feel that certain advanced mathematics topics are best introduced to young students by motivating the concepts through problems that encourage investigation.
We have strong problem-solving courses that fit the age and common interests of youngsters. Through this pursuit, we are confident that our students’ performance on AMC and Olympiad-style contests will improve significantly. We lead students to expand their knowledge on their own, so they develop the all-important desire to explore higher-level mathematics.
Following our own advice, we offer an example:
Find the size of the smallest square that will enclose five non-overlapping unit squares. This is approachable by an able 7th grade math student. Let’s look at the solving process in the following steps:
- By playing around, one can guess the best situation that leads to the desired minimum;
- With a bit more skills, one can find the answer;
- Prove your method is indeed the best;
- Extend this question.
We would say that step (2) will be helpful for MATHCOUNTS/AMC8, 10, 12/AIME. Working out (3) will be helpful for USAMO/IMO. On the other hand, (1) and (4) develop students’ appreciation for the problem-solving strategies that transcend mathematics and apply to any fields they might choose to pursue.
Who can attend the summer math program?
What is the age range of the participating students?
What is the summer math program’s ratio of boys to girls?
Application Questions
What is the acceptance rate for the AwesomeMath Summer Program?
How many problems from the admission test do I need to answer?
Important Reminders about our Admission Test
- Students who wish to take Level 1 & Level 2 classes must submit solutions to Part I only. Students who wish to take Level 3 & Level 4 classes must submit solutions to Part II only.
- Be sure to include all meaningful steps in your reasoning and computation. We are interested in your ability to present your work, so unsupported answers will receive less credit than well-reasoned progress towards a solution without a correct answer.
Is the summer math program admission decision determined solely on my admission test score?
Do you provide solutions to the admission test?
Help! My math teacher/mentor said they submitted my recommendation letter, but my student dashboard still shows a red X.
Help! I’m having trouble uploading my test solutions through my Student Dashboard.
What happens if I submit the test on time, but the rest of the summer math program application is submitted after the application deadline?
What happens if I submit all required parts of the application by the deadline but not the test?
If I am declined during the early or regular summer math program application periods can I submit solutions to Test B or Test C?
Enrollment Questions
Do I get to choose my summer math program courses?
When do I choose my summer math program courses?
Students accepted into our summer program should enroll in their desired classes as follows:
Early enrollment period, Feb 1 - Feb 14, 2022
Regular enrollment period, April 3 - April 16, 2022
Late enrollment period, May 19 - May 27, 2022
Upon enrollment, your dashboard will show an invoice that, once paid, will enable you to access the summer program online.
How many courses do I have to enroll in?
There is no limit to the number of courses you can take (you can enroll in one or as many as your schedule allows). We offer students the flexibility to choose the course load and times that work best for them. We advise students not to enroll in more than two classes per session.
What if I want to ADD or CHANGE my course selections or SWITCH SESSIONS after I submit my enrollment form?
Follow the instructions for change requests as outlined on your Student Dashboard. Requests for a course or session change should be made no later than three weeks before the session starts. We cannot guarantee course or session changes, but we will do our best to accommodate your request. For technical issues please contact admin@awesomemath.org. Be sure to include your Student Name and UIN when contacting us.
Tuition Rates / Refund Policy
Do I get a discount since I applied early?
Are there any other tuition discounts offered?
Do you offer financial aid for the summer math program?
At this time, we do not offer financial aid. We have a discounted rate for students admitted during early registrations and multi-course discount for students admitted during regular and late application periods.
The Spirit of Ramanujan Program makes financial awards to help support talented STEM students. In recent years they have provided support for some of our students. Visit their website to learn more about how to apply for a financial grant.
How do I pay for the summer math program?
When do I have to pay for the summer math program?
The tuition payment deadlines are:
Early application – February 15, 2022
Regular application – April 17, 2022
Late application – May 28, 2022
What is the refund policy?
Participating in the Summer Math Program
Do I have to purchase any books or teaching materials in order to participate?
What if I get into a course and it is too easy or too hard?
What if I change my mind and don’t want to continue with the course?
How will I access the course, platform, communicate with my Instructor, submit homework, etc.?
What if I am unable to attend all classes of a session? What is your makeup policy?
What are the software and hardware requirements to participate? Do I need any specific materials for the courses I am enrolled in?
What if I have questions or need help during the class? After class?
When will I receive my AwesomeMath T-shirt and book(s) that are included in the cost of my tuition?
What if I have a question not answered above?
Contact admin@awesomemath.org and please provide your Student Name and UIN when contacting us.
- By playing around, one can guess the best situation that leads to the desired minimum;
- With a bit more skills, one can find the answer;
- Prove your method is indeed the best;
- Extend this question.
- Both offer the SAME rigorous curriculum
- Veteran instructors with extensive experience in problem solving and mathematics competitions are teaching both at the in-person camps and online programs
- Social activities are part of each of the formats to enhance students’ interaction
- Students can ask in real time questions to instructors for clarifications and additional explanations
- Both formats feature two tests to assess students’ progress
- Office hours are offered twice a week
- Students can review the recorded lectures and problem sessions when attending the online program
- The in-person camps are more expensive than the online version because of the room and board expenses and transportation costs
- The residential camps provide a glimpse into a university campus life
- The online program is a good option for families who cannot afford a residential camp or their students cannot attend due to medical reasons or concerns
- These are two different learning environments with one of them being more suitable to certain students than others