In recognition that some students have personal circumstances that necessitate studying during non-traditional hours, the University of Manitoba is providing a dedicated quiet study space with on-site staff throughout the exam period. The location, St. John’s College Library (3rd Floor, St. John’s College), will be available from 8:00 p.m. on Monday, December 8 through 8:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19. Please note that this space is available on a first come, first served basis to UM undergraduate and graduate students (capacity is 55 students), and student ID must be shown to enter and exit. Make sure to read the terms and conditions for this space (see below) before planning a study session as there are strict rules around how the space can be used.

Although this will be the only 24/7 study space during the exam period, there are plenty of other locations available at varying hours across campus. Students are encouraged to read this UM today article for more information about the different kinds of study spaces at UM, or this UM Libraries page specifically about the many library spaces available to students.

24/7 STUDY SPACE FALL TERM EXAM PERIOD 2025:

8:00 p.m. on Monday, December 8 to 8:00 a.m. on Friday, December 19
St. John’s College Library, 3rd Floor, St. John’s College

Take care of yourself!

Most importantly, remember to take care of yourself during the exam period, as it can be a stressful time for many students. Just because the St. John’s College study space is open 24/7 doesn’t mean you should be studying 24/7! A good grade should never come at the cost of your well-being, so make sure sleep is part of your schedule and check out these sleep hygiene tips.

For advice and resources to help you prepare for exams and manage your stress, read this UM Today article on exam period success. If you are new to exams or just want to brush up on the basics, you can also look to this article on exam basics that covers some of the practicalities and important policies to note.

Stay safe and best of luck this final exam period, Bisons!

CONDITIONS FOR USE

• This space will accommodate a maximum of 55 students and is available on a first come, first served basis. Students who seek entry after the maximum has been reached will be turned away.
• UM student ID cards must be produced upon entry/exit.
• This space is designated for quiet study – no socializing, music, or conversation is permitted.
• Food is allowed only if it is consumed in the study space and does not interfere with other students studying (e.g., no heated food, no pizza parties).
• No alcoholic beverages.
• Drinks must have a lid.
• No sleeping in the study space. Students unable to stay awake will be asked to leave by on-site staff.
• In the event of a fire alarm, students must exit the building as directed by on-site staff and cannot re-enter until instructed to do so.
• Students leaving the room must take their belongings with them. The University and St. John’s College are not responsible for lost or damaged items.

If you are feeling stressed, know that you are not alone – the University of Manitoba offers numerous services to help you alleviate that stress and succeed this exam period, from both an academic and wellness perspective.

When it comes to preparing for your finals, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to start your preparation now (if you haven’t already). Cramming may be a fun word, but it is a much less fun activity! Spreading out your study time and reviewing regularly help to make sure you have truly learnt and understood the information and gives you time to tackle more difficult concepts (especially when time is needed to find some help!).

Creating a study schedule (and sticking to it!) can be a helpful way to keep on track and minimize stress. When doing this, gather up all the material you need to know for all of your courses and think – what final assignments do you have, when are your exams, and what courses are you feeling more or less prepared for? In your study schedule, prioritize the courses, or information, that you are finding the most difficult – it is still important to review the information you are more comfortable with to make sure that you really know it, but, when time is limited, focusing on the less familiar pieces will generally set you up for the most success across your courses.

Staying accountable to a schedule can be difficult, particularly when we feel overwhelmed. Studying with others can help you stay on schedule, feel supported and can help provide a way to clarify or work through things you might be struggling with.

With or without study buddies, finding a study strategy that works for you is key not just for this exam period, but for the future as well. Just re-reading your notes over and over is not very effective for most people – you may want to try something like flash cards, mind maps, study guides or visual representations. Another great option is doing practice questions. To be most effective, practice questions should follow the same format as the exam – so if you are making up your own, keep that in mind. Not only does working through practice questions help you identify what you do and don’t know, studying in ways similar to how you are tested often makes the exam less stressful (which improves our ability to recall the information we need) – you might even consider setting a timer when doing practice questions and tests to mimic the exam situation more closely.

Not sure where to start or just need some advice for how to most effectively study? The Academic Learning Centre (ALC) and UM libraries offer a variety of workshops, one-to-one appointments and other resources to help you have a strong finish to the semester. You can book an appointment with a content or study skills tutor, attend a Supplemental Instruction session or participate in a workshop. You can also, of course, contact your instructor or teaching assistant with questions – this is best done well before the exam to make sure they have time to respond and that you have time to use the response.

Though staying on top of your studies is important at this time of year, do not underestimate the importance of getting enough sleep as part of your exam prep strategy. It is also critical to take care of yourself – mentally and physically. If you are in need of some support, consider reaching out to the Student Wellness Centre, an academic advisor, or the Student Counselling Centre. If you are looking for other ways to help de-stress, consider attending a group fitness class, finding a fun outdoor activity, or taking some time for a hobby. 

Best of luck!

Libraries

A students’ first instinct for finding a study space is probably to go to the library, and that is a good thought! Students pay into the libraries and their services with their tuition, and they provide a lot of resources for students in addition to their stacks, from search aids, to support staff, to rooms to book.

The Elizabeth Dafoe Library offers a variety of options for study spaces beyond the common spaces on the first, second, and third floors. If the traffic of these areas is too much, or if arriving as soon as the library opens to get a good seat is not an easy task, fear not! The library provides some wonderful options.

The second floor of the library is designated as a “quiet zone” and the third floor is home to the Icelandic Reading room. Both locations are quite spaces where students are encouraged to work silently. Being on higher floors, these rooms are away from the bustling entrance on the main floor.

In 2024, the library introduced Quiet Pods to support students who need an individualized quiet space for calls, doing an online exam, or any other task that requires silence. Quiet Pods are located on the main floor of Dafoe and can be booked for a maximum of three hours at a time. They can be booked in advance through an online sign-up form.

For other bookings, the library also offers room bookings across the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses for group study sessions located, and study carrels for graduate students and President’s Scholars.

Other libraries offer study spaces and other services, and students are encouraged to visit different libraries to find the one that suits their needs and study requirements, as different libraries will offer different technological support and study space availability. Below is a list of libraries on both UM campuses with links to information on their study spaces:

• Architecture/Fine Arts Library (206 John A. Russel Building, 84 Curry Place)
• E. K. Williams Law Library (Room 401 Robson Hall, 224 Dysart Road)
• Eckhardt Gramatté Music Library (T257 Taché Arts Complex, 136 Dafoe Road)
• Father Harold Drake Library (Room 119, St. Paul’s College)
• Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library (2^nd Floor, Brodie Centre Atrium, 727 McDermot Avenue)
• St. John’s College Library (3^rd Floor, St. John’s College, 92 Dysart Road)
• Agriculture Building (66 Dafoe Road)
• Engineering Building (EITC E3 75B Chancellors Circle)

Other study spaces

Studying is not just limited to libraries. Although libraries offer an important space for studying, writing, and research all in the same space, sometimes all students need are a desk, a chair, and somewhere quiet.

Various faculties and departments have their own study spaces and lounges which students can use. The International Centre recently opened the Tony K. Lau Global Lounge. Located in room 541 in UMSU University Centre, this is a space for students and faculty to connect and study.

Different faculties will have different options for students. For example, the Faculty of Arts has a study space in Fletcher Argue near the Arts Students Lounge, and the School of Art allows for room bookings to support students in their studies.  Students are encouraged to reach out to their faculty or student associations to see if there are any spaces they can reserve for studying or for any other supports.

Other study spaces will pop up. Students should keep an eye out for renovations in the buildings they frequent. As the UM tunnel system was renovated, more tables and chairs were added to accommodate more options for students to study. As the UM grows, so to will its ability to help support students in their studies and their access to spaces that suit their needs.

Studying and preparing for exams can take its toll. The Student Wellness Centre is a space that students can turn to during their studies to help connect with peers and professionals for wellness support during the academic term. At the SWC, students can tend to their mental health and well-being during their studies. This space offers a break from the hectic pace of studying. After all, a key aspect of student success is a solid support system and confidence to pursue one’s studies. Student Wellness Centre hours of operation may vary during the exam period. Be sure to check their website or instagram (@healthyuofm) for hours of operation.

1. Know the date and time

Most instructors will let you know the date and time of the exam as soon as the schedule comes out, but you can also check it yourself through Aurora! On Aurora Classic, go to the “Enrollment and Academic Records” tab, click the “Registration and Exams” link, and select “My Exams.” On New Aurora, look for the “My Exams” card to take you to the same page. 

If you have multiple exams, check all the dates and times to ensure there are no conflicts. A conflict isn’t just two exams scheduled for the same time – three exams in consecutive slots, even across two days, also counts as a conflict. Reach out to your faculty’s academic advising office ASAP if you notice a problem!

2. Find the classroom

Aurora will also display the building and room your exam has been assigned to. This room will almost certainly be different from the one your class was held in, and it may very well be in a building you have never visited before. Always locate the room in advance of your exam. You could even meet up with some classmates to search for the venue together!

3. Gather your supplies

Many students have gotten used to doing all their writing on a computer, so don’t forget to take your pencils and pens  out of retirement for the exam period! If your exam involves a multiple-choice bubble sheet, a pen won’t suffice – make sure you get an HB pencil. Always expect the unexpected: it’s wise to bring a backup pen or pencil. Plus, if you’re using a pencil, you will need a sharpener and eraser along with it. Many exams will require extra materials, such as mathematical tools, so be sure to thoroughly check all your course documents and listen up for exam instructions from your instructor.

The other material you will absolutely need is your student ID. Bring this to your table, and the exam invigilator will verify your identity when they bring around the sign-in sheet.

4. What not to bring

Don’t bring anything to your exam that you don’t need. Usually, you will be asked to leave your outerwear and bag at the front of the room or under the table, so any prohibited materials will stay there. Leave your computer, phone and any smart watches, and don’t forget to silence your phone to avoid embarrassing interruptions! You will likely not be allowed to have food or beverages at your desk, but water bottles are generally permitted.

5. When you can’t make it

For any number of reasons, you may not be able to write your exam at the scheduled time. When you are aware of an issue in advance, you can apply for a deferral through your faculty’s academic advising office. Find more information on permissible reasons and the deferral application process, read this article from Student Affairs, ‘Support for extenuating circumstances during exam period‘.

6. During the exam

Be aware of the rules of exit and entry to the exam room. Once the exam has commenced, no student is permitted to leave the exam room for the first half hour. Late students may still be permitted to enter during this period before anyone has left. After that, students may be permitted to turn in their exam and leave, and they can leave temporarily to use the washroom (accompanied by an invigilator).

Inevitably, some students will encounter unexpected circumstances on the day-of, or even during the exam. Don’t fret, the university has policies in place for these situations! If you are unable to complete an exam that you have started – for instance, a sudden-onset medical issue or a family emergency – you have options. You can leave the exam and choose to hand in your materials as complete or not complete, and incomplete exams may still qualify for a deferred examination.

Good luck on the last stretch of fall term, Bisons! Remember these tips, study up, keep yourself rested and fed, and you will make this exam period a success.

Students now see their exams in Aurora and the final exam schedule on the UM website.

Exam locations will be finalized and posted approximately 5 days after the November 18 VW deadline.

Note that the schedules in Aurora and on the UM website only display exams scheduled by the Registrar’s Office (RO). Exam scheduled by a department or by a professor will not appear in these places. If there is a conflict between an exam scheduled by the RO and an exam scheduled by a department or professor , reach out to your department to resolve the conflict as soon as possible.

Viewing exams in Aurora

To find your final exam date, time, and location, select the “My Exams” card.

• Orange text indicates new information.
• Black text represents current information.
• Greyed-out text shows past exam dates.

Select the arrow to view detailed exam information, including room and building.

Here are some recommendations to prepare for studying and writing your exams.

Studying

Different students will have different studying strategies, however here are some that may be helpful.

• Check the exam schedule and manage any exam conflicts and deferrals as soon as possible. In order to write your exam, you need to know when and where it is to help plan.
• Find out what type of exam you are writing for each course. Knowing the format will help you determine what to study, how to study and what you need to prepare.
• Once you have your exam schedule, plan out your study schedule. By keeping important dates in mind, you can plan out how much time to dedicate to a given course and ensure that you can give yourself enough time to prepare for topics that are more challenging.
• Refer to your syllabus, course schedule and course objectives to understand what the course outcomes for your class are. This can help identify important areas of focus that require more attention than others.
• Gather and organize your class materials. Lecture notes, assignments, assigned readings, tests, practice questions, etc. Study a variety of course materials and compare them to the course objectives to understand what you need to understand about various aspects of the course.
• Study actively by creating something new. Reorganize the information in your course material, rewrite your notes, re-summarize your readings, redo tests, create new ways of presenting information discussed in class. This obliges you to fully engage with the material.
• Avoid cramming. Cramming is an overload of the brain. There is only so much you can retain in a short period of time and this can lead to poor results.
• Instead of cramming, if you are short on time, prioritize chapter summaries, course objectives and the material you are less familiar with.
• Test yourself. Redo tests and quizzes. Create and answer your own questions. Try to summarize topics or concepts without referring to your course materials, then go back and fill in any gaps.
• Do LOTS of practice problems, especially if you are in problem-based courses like Math, Statistics, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering. Do the hardest questions. Approach problem solving in an organized way using the Academic Learning Centre’s GUESS method.
• Be proactive. Ask questions! Talk with your course instructor or teaching assistant and see what supports they can provide. You can also find recorded Academic Success Workshops that can help you continue to succeed, or you can book an appointment with an Academic Learning Centre content/study skills tutor.

Practise Self-care

Focusing on your wellness is as important as studying. It is difficult to retain information and prepare yourself for what is to come if you are not functioning at your best. UM’s supports are numerous. Here are some supports offered this exam period

• Get support and reach out. The Student Counselling Centre offers counselling services for students and has a variety of groups and workshops throughout the year.

• • If you need help developing an action plan for a specific challenge, the SCC offers Single Session Therapy appointments to help you finish the term.
  • If you need a place to study that is not the library or you want to connect with student supports, visit the Student Wellness Centre. The Centre can support you, connect you to supports you may need and more generally offers a safe, calm space for students.

• Attend some of the events on campus designed to support students.

• • Refuel & Charge Ahead! — Monday, April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Swing by the Fletcher Argue hallway for a quick pick-me-up! Our Charge Ahead mentors will be handing out coffee and cookies to students who stop by. Come say hi, grab a sweet treat and charge ahead into exams energized!
  • Doughnut Stress, You’ve Got This! — Tuesday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Visit the Connection Desk 109 UMSU University Centre for a free doughnut and affirmation to help power you through the day. 
  • Crunch time — Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Staff from the Student Wellness Centre will be going around campus to fuel students with snacks and deliver the good news that the SWC will be open throughout the spring and summer. Make sure to say hi and grab some brain food!
  • Coffee and Cookie delivery — Thursday, April 10 and Wednesday, April 16 from 7 and 9 p.m. (both days) | Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Services in partnership with UMSU are gearing up to deliver coffee and cookies to students studying on campus in the evenings for final exams.
  • Doughnuts and Coffee — Monday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (while supplies last) | The International Centre is hosting doughnuts and coffee in the T. K. Lau Global Lounge (541 UMSU Centre)

• Develop good habits. Connect with UM’s Coordinator of Student Health and Wellness Education to discuss health and wellness topics such as stress management or other ideas for healthier living. The Healthy U website also has multiple resources you can access at any time. 
• Take short breaks regularly. Get up, move, stretch, give your mind a rest, stare at the wall or at something far away to rest your eyes. Essentially, give your body and your mind a rest so you can come back to studying refreshed.
• Make time for things that bring you joy and help you relax. Enjoy a hobby, spend time in nature, tidy up your space or connect with friends and family.
• Celebrate all of your wins: Prepping for finals and finishing your course load can be a long journey. Waiting until the result of your exam or last class is certainly worth celebrating, but so is all of the work you are accomplishing along the way. Attending class, learning a challenging concept, or getting through your most recent study session are all your wins as well. Celebrate yourself as you go, you deserve it.

Although this will be the only 24/7 study space during the exam period, there are plenty of other locations available at varying hours across campus. Students are encouraged to read more about finding spaces to study at UM, or specifically about the many library spaces available to students.

24/7 STUDY SPACE WINTER TERM EXAM PERIOD 2025:

Friday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m. to Friday, April 25 at 8:00 a.m.
St. John’s College Library, 3rd Floor, St. John’s College

Take care of yourself!

Most importantly, remember to take care of yourself during the exam period, as it can be a stressful time for many students. Just because the St. John’s College study space is open 24/7 doesn’t mean you should be studying 24/7! A good grade should never come at the cost of your well-being, so make sure sleep is part of your schedule and check out these sleep hygiene tips.

For advice and resources to help you prepare for exams and manage your stress, read this UM Today article on exam period success. If you are new to exams or just want to brush up on the basics, you can also look to this article on exam basics that covers some of the practicalities and important policies to note.

Stay safe and best of luck this final exam period, Bisons!

24/7 Study Space conditions for use

• This space will accommodate a maximum of 55 students and is available on a first come, first served basis. Students who seek entry after the maximum has been reached will be turned away.
• UM student ID cards must be produced upon entry/exit.
• This space is designated for quiet study – no socializing, music, or conversation is permitted.
• Food is allowed only if it is consumed in the study space and does not interfere with other students studying (e.g., no heated food, no pizza parties).
• No alcoholic beverages.
• Drinks must have a lid.
• No sleeping in the study space. Students unable to stay awake will be asked to leave by on-site staff.
• In the event of a fire alarm, students must exit the building as directed by on-site staff and cannot re-enter until instructed to do so.
• Students leaving the room must take their belongings with them. The University and St. John’s College are not responsible for lost or damaged items.

View your final exams

To find your final exam date, time, and location, select the “My Exams” card.

• Orange text indicates new information.
• Black text represents current information.
• Greyed-out text shows past exam dates.

Select the arrow to see detailed exam information, including course details, instructor, building, and room number.

Final exam locations will be posted in Aurora and on the Final exam schedule page approximately 1 week after the VW deadline. If you have an online exam, it will be listed as “online” under the location column. If you have an in-person exam, the location column will have the specific room information.

Prepare now: Important tasks to do before the final exam period

• Review your schedule for any conflicts and contact your Academic Advisor if you have one.
• Reach out to Student Accessibility Services, if needed, to ensure you have the necessary supports in place.   
• If you have an online exam, make sure you have the technology needed to complete your exam. 
• Make sure you have your UM Student Photo ID. When you arrive for your in-person exam, there will be a series of announcements, the first being to place your student photo ID (or government issued photo ID) at the top corner of your desk. If you don’t have one, visit the ID Centre in the Registrar’s Office on the 4th floor, UMSU University Centre. 

Fall Term 2024 is drawing to a close and Tuesday, December 10 marks the beginning of the final exam period for many faculties. Knowing that this can be a stressful time, I would like to share some information about resources and supports that you may find helpful over the next two weeks.

As you prepare for your exams, I encourage you to access the Content and Study Skills tutors at the Academic Learning Centre (ALC). They continue to hold one-to-one appointments throughout the exam period. Various other resources are offered through the ALC, such as Writing tutors and specialized supports for graduate students. Academic Advisors are also available to you until the last day of exams on December 20.

Often a key part of exam preparation is finding a study space that works for you. If you are in need of a space, UM Libraries are open and you can find their hours, study space options, and information about their satellite locations on their website.

We recognize that for some students, personal circumstances necessitate studying during non-traditional hours. A dedicated quiet space with on-site staff has been designated for studying throughout the period December 9 at 8:00 a.m. to December 20 at 4:30 p.m. in the St. John’s College Library, third floor, St. John’s College. The SJC Library accommodates 55 students, and will be available on a first come, first served basis. UM student ID must be presented to gain entry to the space outside regular hours (weekdays from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. and all day on weekends). For further details and conditions for using this space, refer to this UM Today story.

Prioritizing your well-being during this intense period of academic study is vitally important. If you are in need of some support in this area, don’t hesitate to reach out and explore the resources available to you. The teams at the Student Wellness Centre, Healthy U and the Student Counselling Centre are available to offer space, resources and an opportunity to talk through challenges. Visit their websites for more information and hours during the exam period.

Exam deferrals are a privilege. Although rare, there may be extenuating circumstances that impact your ability to write your final exam as scheduled. Be sure to review valid and non-valid reasons for deferred exams and where to get support.

To fuel your study sessions or to grab a bite between exams, UM Campus Services will continue to operate. If you are craving something in particular, be sure to check the hours of operation for individual food outlets to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends. Members of the Student Affairs team are also offering free coffee and healthy treats throughout the exam period:

• During the evening on December 11 in the tunnel network between the University Centre and Asper, look for free coffee and treats handed out by Spiritual Care in partnership with UMSU Degrees Diner!
• On December 12 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. come to the Connection Desk 109 UMSU University Centre for a free doughnut and affirmation to help power you through the day: Donut Stress, You’ve Got This!
• On December 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Fletcher hallway and again 12 to 2 p.m. in the Armes hallway, swing by the Charge Ahead table for coffee, snacks and good vibes to keep you going!
• On December 16 from 12 to 2 p.m. stop by the Student Wellness Centre (SWC) in Room 162 Extended Education to grab some free snacks, play board games, study, or relax! Keep an eye out for SWC staff as they visit high traffic areas around campus to hand out some study fuel!

A great way to clear your head and support your mental well-being is to stay active. All UM students, through the Sport and Rec fee, have access to UM sport and recreation facilities, casual rec use spaces, and group fitness classes on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. Check out UM Recreation Services to learn more and find hours of operation.

Safety has been top of mind for our community over the past few months.  This UM Today story provides an overview of current safety and security measures, and recent enhancements, in keeping with our commitment to provide a safe and secure environment for all students, staff and visitors.  If you haven’t already, I encourage you to download the free UM Safe App for Android or iOS devices to have ready access to safety tools, services and resources.

Given the weather conditions we have been experiencing, please travel safely over the coming days. I’m wishing you all the best during the final exam period.

Take good care.

…Laurie

https://www.tiktok.com/@umstudent/video/7307720584618593541

@umstudent

Super fun study spot, and there’s plenty of tables! #umanitoba #umstudent #weareallbisons #student #studentlife

♬ original sound – jern

@umstudent

Makes for a great nap spot too:) #umanitoba #umstudent #weareallbisons #student #studentlife

♬ original sound – TikToker

https://www.tiktok.com/@umstudent/video/7141462276845964550