Frequently Asked Questions - Students

The Academic Center for Excellence is a centralized academic support center that provides free tutoring, writing support, and study skill development to help students succeed in their courses.

All currently enrolled students at Buffalo State University are eligible to use our services.

No, your paid tuition already covers the services we provide.  There are no additional costs.

We are in E. H. Butler Library, Suite 145.  Visit our website (Academic Center for Excellence) for the most up-to-date location information and hours.

Yes, we provide writing support at all stages of the writing process from brainstorming to final revisions.

We do offer workshops if needed.  Our Academic Mentors incorporate many of the skill building strategies into their one-on-one or group sessions with students.  

All services for Mathematics and General Subject courses are on a walk-in basis.  Students should visit the Center during the days/times Academic Mentors are available for the specific course they need help with (Find Your Tutor).  Students are highly encouraged to schedule appointments for any writing related assignments through the Navigate360 link provided on our website under the Writing Support Services, although we also accept walk-ins based on availability of the Academic Mentor (tutor).

Most sessions last between 30 and 60 minutes. Writing support appointments are 45 minutes each.

Academic Mentoring sessions are interactive and student-centered. Academic Mentors will guide you through material, ask questions, and help you build independent learning skills.

If you miss multiple appointments without notice, your ability to book future sessions may be limited. Please cancel in advance if you cannot attend.

Yes. Academic Mentors create a summary report of your session, which is accessible by your faculty as well as other professional staff and administrators on campus through Navigate360.

Our Academic Mentors include trained peer tutors and adjunct faculty/professional staff with expertise in specific subject areas and writing instruction. Peer Academic Mentors must complete an online application (Employment Opportunity), go through an interview process, and provide references from faculty in their specific major discipline before they are hired.   

You may request an Academic Mentor when scheduling or walking-in, though availability cannot always be guaranteed.

Academic Mentors will help you understand concepts, develop ideas, and improve your work, but they will not complete assignments for you.

Academic Mentors will not provide answers to graded assignments or exams. They follow university academic integrity policies.

Most students use our services in-person.  However, we do offer virtual Academic Mentoring for online students using online meeting platforms. To find out more information please visit Tutoring for Online Students. 

Academic Mentoring can strengthen your understanding and skills, which can lead to improved performance. Your progress depends on your engagement and consistency. Please visit Spotlight on Tutoring to see how tutoring can help.  

Regular visits such as weekly sessions and before major assignments and exams are strongly recommended.  The key is to start visiting the Center early and often for maximum success! 

We support all students, including those who want to deepen their understanding or improve their already strong skills.