FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

For over a decade, the Online Learning Academy (OLA) has provided free tutoring in Math/Science and Writing for students across the University of Hawaiʻi system. As we look toward the 2026-2027 academic year, we are refocusing our resources to support gateway courses at our home campus at UH Mānoa. This means that OLA will conclude its tutoring support for students at other UH-system campuses at the end of the Spring 2026 semester.

Here are some resources for both writing and math/science tutoring throughout the UH System.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your academic journey. We wish you the very best in your future studies!

OLA tutors can help you anywhere you have an internet connection and access to Zoom. OLA uses STAR Balance to schedule tutoring appointments. Once you have scheduled an appointment, join the provided Zoom link when it’s time for your appointment.

OLA does not offer tutoring for students studying for placement exams (Chemistry, Math, etc.) Students must be currently enrolled in the class for which they are seeking tutoring in. For students looking for additional help, please see the websites linked above for respective placement test resources and connect with departments.

 While there may be multiple reasons, the most common one is that all our tutors have appointments at that time. Please check other days for availability. We are open Monday-Thursday. Additionally, make sure to select a class on the left-hand side menu before checking for availability. 

To get the most out of your session, complete the pre-appointment form which is sent to your email after booking an appointment.  Come to your session with a set goal to help maximize what you’ll accomplish during the session. If your assignment has a rubric or you have a document you want to use during your session, upload it to the pre-appointment form. Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions! Tutors are there to make the session as productive and helpful as possible.

Our tutors are trained to guide you and are expected to do this through questioning to assess your understanding. They will not simply provide answers but will help you work through your areas of need. Please ask the tutors any questions that you have!

If you are 15 minutes late, your session will be marked as a “no-show,” and you will need to schedule another session. Students can cancel or reschedule their appointment a minimum of one hour before their scheduled appointment. Appointments cancelled with less than an hour notice will be marked as a “no show.” Please provide as much notice as possible so the appointment can be open to another student.