Frequently Asked Questions

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General ESS / Academic Support

What is Educational Support Services (ESS)?

ESS includes UVU’s main tutoring programs and academic support: the Writing Center, Math Lab, Academic Tutoring, Testing Services, and Academic Coaching. ESS is designed to meet students where they’re at and assist them in reaching their academic goals. Additional campus support may be available through other programs and departments. 

Student Success Resources

Who can benefit from ESS services?

Students, faculty, staff, and community members can benefit from these services, with priority given to UVU students.

Are tutoring services free?

Yes. ESS tutoring services (Academic Tutoring, Math Lab, Writing Center) are free.

Academic Coaching & Educational Standards (ACES)

What support does ACES provide?

ACES helps all students explore learning strategies and academic support options and offers guidance on improving study habits and academic success. Coaching is available both in person and online.

ACES also specifically supports students who fall on any level of Academic Standings (Warning, Notice, Suspension, Dismissal).

What is Academic Standing?

Academic Standing is based on GPA, and students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher to remain in good standing.

How do I get help from ACES?

Appointments are recommended. Students can schedule an appointment with a member of the ACES team to discuss which learning strategies or resources will work best for them.

Academic Tutoring

What types of tutoring are available?

Academic Tutoring offers both in-person and online tutoring across many subjects, including business, science, engineering, and technology.

Do I need an appointment for tutoring?

  • In-person tutoring is drop-in (no appointment needed).
  • Online tutoring requires an appointment through the tutoring platform.  

Request an Appointment

What can I expect from tutoring sessions?

Students can receive one-on-one help and work through course material with peer tutors. Tutors will also assist students with learning strategies throughout their session.

How should I prepare for a tutoring session?

Students are encouraged to review their course material and come with specific questions for the tutoring session.

Can I come to the lab if I don’t need tutoring?

Yes! All you need to do is check in at the front desk. The labs are great spaces to study and do homework.

Who can use Academic Tutoring?

Academic Tutoring is available to all UVU students, concurrent enrollment students, and the community, and supports learners from all backgrounds and skill levels.

Math Lab

What services does the Math Lab offer?

The Math Lab offers free academic support to help students succeed in mathematics. Our services include:

  • In-person and online tutoring
  • Supplemental learning resources including handouts and videos
  • Assistance with math coursework and problem-solving

Do I need an appointment to use the Math Lab?

No appointment is needed for in-person tutoring, which is offered on a drop-in basis. Online tutoring is available seven days a week by appointment and can be scheduled through the Math Lab website.

Math Lab

Who can use the Math Lab?

The Math Lab is open to all UVU students, concurrent enrollment students, and community members. It is often used as a study space where learners work with tutors, collaborate with classmates, or study independently in a focused environment.

What is the goal of the Math Lab?

The Math Lab aims to strengthen mathematical reasoning, build confidence, and help students become independent learners.

Writing Center

What kind of help does the Writing Center provide?

The Writing Center consists of three programs (the Writing Center, Graduate Writing Center, and course-embedded Writing Fellows) that offer

  • In-person, live online, and asynchronous tutoring
  • Workshops and presentations
  • Online handouts and writing support materials

What types of writing can the Writing Center help with?

The Writing Center can help with any writing project at any stage of the writing process. Tutoring is available for course assignments, application materials, and personal writing. The Writing Center supports writers and writing across the disciplines.

Do I need an appointment?

Writers are welcome to drop-in for assistance; however appointments are recommended during busy times.

How long are sessions and is there a limit?

Writers can meet with a tutor for

  • 25 or 50-minute tutoring sessions
  • 50 minutes per day
  • 3 hours per week

Will a tutor edit or grade my paper?

Writing tutors provide formative feedback and guidance but do not edit papers or assign grades.

Supplemental Instruction (SI)

What is Supplemental Instruction (SI)?

SI is a free, student support program that provides group study sessions for many historically difficult courses. The program assigns a previously successful student who attends class and leads studysession 3-4 times a week.

Who can attend SI sessions?

Any student enrolled in the course subject can attend SI sessions, regardless of section or instructor.

What does a typical session look like?

Sessions typically have:

  • Study tips for your specific class
  • Reviews of class content
  • Gamified practice problems
  • Creation of take-home study materials
  • Other studying strategies

How do I find SI session times?

Schedules are shared by SI leaders through class announcements, Canvas, or direct communication. 

SI Course Lookup

Testing Services

Do I need an appointment to take a test?

Yes. Appointments must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance.

What do I need to bring to a testing appointment?

You must bring a current, government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or UVU ID).

What happens to my personal belongings during testing?

All personal belongings (phones, bags, etc.) are stored in provided lockers during testing.

Can I bring my own calculator for placement tests?

No personal calculators are allowed for ALEKS, but an on-screen calculator may be provided when permitted.

How long does it take to receive test scores?

Scores are typically entered into the system within 24 business hours.