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.

Though it is rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from taking an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances. UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with this in mind.

If you are unable to write an exam, and have no other available documentation, you must complete the Online Self-Declaration Form to request a deferred exam. Students must 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 the UM 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

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

Be sure to check in with an advisor in your home faculty to confirm which events and other reasons are relevant and may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty.

If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please view the student supports and resources that are available to you, such as:

• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition

Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

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.

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.

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

Although rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from writing an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances.   UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with these circumstances in mind. 

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 the UM 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

Students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to experiencing high levels of academic or exam-related stress should seek out support by contacting Student  Accessibility Services or Student Support Case Management.  

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 

Be sure to check with an advisor in your home faculty (or your faculty’s website) to confirm which events and other reasons may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty. If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please use the student supports and resources available to you, such as: 

• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops 
• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition 

 Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

Here are some recommendations as you focus on studying and writing your exams.

STUDY SMART

Here are some recommendations to maximize your effectiveness and efficiency as you focus on studying and writing your exams.

• Check your exam schedule and manage your exam conflicts and deferrals ahead of time. Make sure you know when and when you write your final exams.
• Create a study schedule by working backwards from the exam date and allowing extra time for courses and topic areas that are more challenging for you.
• Use your syllabus and course objectives to determine what you need to focus on most when studying.
• Find out what type of exam you are writing (e.g., multiple choice, short answer, essay, open book). Knowing the format will help you determine how to study.
• Gather and organize essential materials, such as assigned course readings, lecture notes, and practice questions.
• Study actively by creating something new. Just re-reading or recopying your notes is not effective and can lead to poor results. Instead, re-organize the information by creating charts, concept maps and/or timelines.
• Avoid cramming. Cramming overtaxes your memory—you will likely remember less and may even get confused about the material.
• If you’re short on time, read chapter summaries and chapter objectives. Focus on material that will be covered on the exam, but that was not covered during class. Review the material you don’t know well before reviewing material that is easier or more familiar.
• Test yourself. Complete the chapter quizzes. Create and answer your own test questions. Challenge yourself to write down everything you know about a course topic, concept, or section without looking at your notes or textbook, then fill in the gaps. Not knowing is part of learning, so don’t stress if you don’t know much the first time you do this. Your knowledge will improve!
• 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. If you have questions, your first step should be to contact the course instructor or teaching assistant. 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.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE

Focusing on your wellness as much as your studying during exam season can help ensure you are functioning at your best. Many resources can help you thrive and take care of yourself. Here are some suggestions:

• Find a balance. Consider eating foods that fuel you, get the rest you need, and move your body in whatever way makes sense to you! Take advantage of UM Recreation Services’ wide range of virtual workout sessions and the facilities and programs on both UM campuses.
• Get support. If you get anxious about exams, you are not alone. The Student Counselling Centre offers counselling services for students, including groups and workshops available throughout the year.
  • Enhance your coping abilities with SCC’s Stress and Wellness 101 . You can attend one, two or all three sessions in on of the two following series:
    • Series 5: In-person on Monday, March 25, April 1 and 8 | 10:30 to 12:20pm
    • Series 6: In-person on Thursday, April 11, 18 and 25 | 10:30 to 12:30pm
  • Join Mid-day Mindfulness meditation on Wednesdays at 12:30-1:30.
  • 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.
  • Looking for a place to study, rest, learn or connect? Visit the new Student Wellness Centre (SWC). The SWC can support you in getting well, being well and staying well during your time in university.
• 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. Getting up and moving when you’re studying can help prevent neck pain and headaches. Doing this also gives your mind a rest so you can return to your work feeling 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.
• Remember to breathe. It’s easy to forget this when you’re feeling stressed. Simply close your eyes and count your breaths, focusing on inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply. Looking for  somewhere to take a moment and breathe, the Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre offers a meditation space for students and the Student Wellness Centre offers a “calm space” for students to disconnect from the chaos of campus.
• Remember that your self-worth and value as a person is not determined by one test score or one exam. No matter the results of your exams or course grades, you are worthy of living a good life. Acknowledge how hard you’re working, show yourself kindness and remember that you are doing the best you can.
• 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.

BEFORE EXAMS START

Know your schedule and locations. Be sure to confirm your exam dates, times, and locations, well in advance of the exam period. Your exam locations and schedule be found the ‘My Exams’ card in the New Aurora and on the Final Exam Schedule webpage. You can find everything you need to know, including what to do if you have exam conflicts, or you miss an exam on the Final Exam webpage.

Talk to your Professor.  Make sure you know the exam format (i.e., multiple choice, long answer, essay) and how much time you’ll have to write. Confirm if there are specific materials you are, or are not, permitted to have in the room, eg formula sheet or calculator. Ask if your instructor has any sample exams that would be helpful.

Study Smarter, not Harder. Find lots of useful tips for studying and self-care. Use proven and effective techniques to make the most of your study time. Organize and stick to a schedule, then test yourself with a variety of practice problems. Don’t forget to practice self-care while you study and on exam days. Be sure to find supports you can use and check out  Prepping for Finals to learn more about exam prep strategies! 

ON EXAM DAY

Exams can be stressful but being ready and present makes a big difference. Don’t forget these important steps to avoid stress on the day of your exam.

• Show up. It seems obvious, but exams are easier to miss than you think. Set your alarm and leave plenty of time to get to campus and to your exam room. 
• Bring ID. Students must present photo identification. Bring your student ID card or another piece of photo identification with you and place it on top of your table before starting your exam.
• Show your integrity. Be sure to review the Academic Integrity  webpage. The best way to avoid academic misconduct is to do the actual work. Students often report that they resort to cheating because they feel unprepared but still wanted a good grade. Avoid cheating by studying smart and ahead of time. Here are a few more tips to help avoid an allegation of misconduct.
  • • Do not have any unauthorized materials with you. You are only allowed materials that are approved by your professor, in the exam room. Simply having unauthorized material is against the rules, whether it is used during the exam or not.
    • Do not sit beside your friends. This can lead to temptation to communicate and any talking in an exam is considered academic misconduct…even if you’re just asking to borrow an eraser! Only communicate with exam invigilators during an exam.
    • Protect yourself. You are obligated to protect your work and permitting access to your exam is considered cheating. Don’t give someone the opportunity to copy from you during an exam!
    • Do all of your own work. Getting help with take home exams, or exams written online, is also not allowed. Do not use AI text generating programs (e.g., Chat GBT) or editing programs/software (e.g., Grammarly) when completing exams unless your instructor gives you explicit permission. Using these tools improperly often leads to allegations of misconduct.

Following these steps won’t guarantee you a perfect grade, but they sure will make getting there a lot easier! Need help creating a plan? Visit an academic advisor in the First Year Centre or your home faculty.