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.

Even the most prepared student, however, may be faced with unexpected circumstances. In this case, a deferred exam may be considered. In the case that a medical or compassionate circumstance arises which prevents a student from writing an exam as scheduled, they may request a deferral. A deferral is a privilege for students. The UM’s Self-Declaration Policy for Students considers the reasons students may be unable to write an exam.

If you are unable to write an exam, and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for a deferred exam(s).  Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under theUM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons 

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding) 
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments
• Academic/Exam Related Stress

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

If you are unsure if your reasons is valid or not, please check with an advisor in your faculty to help navigate the Self-Declaration form.

Even if the circumstances may not fall under what is acceptable for the Self-Declaration form, UM understands that regardless, students may be stressed or may have some difficulties preparing for their exams.  In those cases, now is the time to reach out to student supports and resources. Student Affairs is in full swing for the exam season and students looking for support should reach out.

• For students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to stress reasons, health reasons, or have other accessibility concerns, please contact the Student Accessibility Services.
• The Academic Learning Centre is ready to help students with study skills, exam preparation, and writing workshops.
• The Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports are there to help manage stress, anxiety, and approach the exam season head-on.

Best wishes to all students in their preparations for final examinations.