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.
Why do you no longer offer the summer program in-person?
The AwesomeMath Summer Program is now online only, as it allows us to reach more students globally, This provides our students the opportunity to collaborate with a greater diversity of peers who come from different backgrounds, cultures and educational experiences.
The online format provides comparable quality of instruction to in-person classes, but at a lower tuition rate, giving more students a chance to participate without having to pay the extra costs for housing and travel. Offering the program virtually has been a huge success as it also gives students more flexibility with their summer schedules. It allows us to bring in the greatest instructors from around the globe.
We understand the social connections made at our past in-person camps were very valuable to our students, so our virtual program incorporates engaging social activities and small group opportunities to help students connect more personally, both inside and outside the classroom. The high percentage of returning students in the past couple years, as well as the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from families, are a great testament to our online summer program format.
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.
Not ready to complete all application requirements by the deadline?
No problem. We understand that your schedules are busy and we do not want you to rush our application process. We offer multiple application periods for a couple reasons: 1) to offer you more flexibility in when you complete your application and 2) If you are declined admission during one application period, you are eligible and encouraged to try again by submitting the next admission test, once available.
Does it make a difference WHEN I apply?
One of the differences between the different application periods is the tuition rate. The earlier you apply, the more you save on tuition. Another reason to apply early is to ensure your desired course selections. Some class times may fill up, so admitted students who enroll late might not have the same course selection options.
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?
Your application will not be reviewed by the Admissions Committee until it is complete, meaning until all required items (as outlined on steps to apply) are submitted and received by our office.
In this example, we will consider your application for admission only after you submit the admission test. Admissions tests should not be submitted after the stated deadline. In other words, Test A should not be submitted past the early application deadline. You should submit Test B instead. Test B should not be submitted after the regular round 1 application deadline. You should submit Test C instead. Test C should not be submitted after the regular round 2 application deadline. You should submit Test D instead. Test D should not be submitted after the late round 1 application deadline. You should submit Test E instead. We will not accept Test E after the late round 2 (final) application deadline.
If I am declined admissions, can I submit solutions to the next available admission test?
Yes. If you are declined admission during one application period, you are eligible and encouraged to try again by submitting the next admission test, once available.
For example, if you submit Test A during the early application period and are denied admission, you may try again with Test B. You do not need to resubmit any application requirements except for the next test. If you submit the final test available (Test E) and are denied admission, you will be encouraged to apply again the following summer after you have had time to develop the pre-requisite skills for participating.
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:
Regular Round 1: March 01 – April 13, 2023
Regular Round 2: April 05 – April 13, 2023
Late Round 1: May 03 – May 11, 2023
Late Round 2: May 26 – May 31, 2023
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 enrollment: February 3, 2023
Regular Round 1 & 2: April 14, 2023
Late Round 1: May 12, 2023
Late Round 2: June 1, 2023
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?
Am I able to switch class times or sessions after the program starts if I have scheduling conflicts, or cannot regularly attend the live classes?
What do I need to do to prepare for the first day of class?
What if I have a question not answered above?
Contact admin@awesomemath.org and please provide your Student Name and UIN when contacting us.
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