Frequently Asked Questions
What's in it for me?
River Hawk Review is designed to help you brush up on math, feel more confident going into your first semester and give you a real shot at a better placement score. A higher score can mean starting in a course that's a better fit for where you want to go.
Do I have to attend every day?
Yes. We encourage you to come to every session. Each class builds on the last, so missing one can make the next one harder to follow. If you miss more than one session, you won't be eligible to retake the ALEKS placement test at the end.
What if I need to leave early?
Try to stay for the whole session when you can. You'll get a lot more out of it that way. If you must leave early and miss a big chunk of class, it could count as a full absence.
Is the program online?
Yes! The program is run live on Zoom.
What math class will I take after the program?
That depends on your new ALEKS score after the program ends. You can take your next course either in Summer Session II (starting July 6, 2026) or in Fall 2026. It’s your choice.
Do I still need to do ALEKS modules on my own if I join the program?
Nope! River Hawk Review is its own pathway to retesting — you don't need to complete the independent modules too. But if you decide not to join (or can't finish the program), you can still do the modules on your own and retake the placement test that way.
Is there a test at the end?
Yes. You'll retake the ALEKS placement assessment at the very end of the program. That's the whole goal! And instead of tutors, you'll have faculty with you throughout the program to answer questions and support you along the way.
How many students are enrolled in the program?
We're expecting around 20–40 students to attend. You'll be placed into an even smaller group based on your initial ALEKS score, so the experience will feel more personal. How many instructors will there be? Faculty will be assigned based on the number of students enrolled, so the student-to-faculty ratio stays low. The goal is to support you.
Does it cost anything?
Nothing at all. UMass Lowell is covering the full cost because your success matters to us. This program exists to help you hit the ground running.
When are the Zoom sessions?
Sessions will run Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to Noon, from June 10 to 29.
What's the Zoom link?
We'll send you a dedicated link on June 9.
Will I retest online or on campus?
You'll retest right at the end of the program. There is no need to schedule a separate appointment. We're working on offering both a remote proctored option and an in-person option for students who are able to come to campus. More details coming soon.
Who is this program for?
If your ALEKS score placed you into Fundamental in Algebra, Pre-Calculus I or Pre-Calculus II, this program is for you. If you placed directly into Calculus I, you're already set and won’t need to participate.
How is this different from taking a Summer II class?
River Hawk Review is a free, no-credit program. It's a focused review to help you place into a better math course. A Summer Session II class is a full credit course with a syllabus, grades and tuition. They serve different purposes and one doesn't replace the other.
What if my major doesn't even require Calculus I — should I still do this?
In most cases, yes! Even if Calc I isn't on your path, placing into a higher course means you spend less time (and money) on prerequisite classes and start your college math experience on stronger footing.