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.

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!

It’s important to be kind to yourself and be patient at this time of year. Check in with yourself and remember that there are plenty of resources and supports available to you. Help-seeking behaviour is important to add to your skillset, regardless of what you need and your level of need.

CRISIS SUPPORTS

If you’re in distress and feel like you need to speak to someone urgently, please connect with one of these options:

Off Campus:

Students needing emergency/crisis support outside of business hours are encouraged to use one of the crisis services accessible 24 hours a day that are listed below:

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8
• Manitoba Suicide Prevention & Support Line (24/7): 1-877-435-7170
• Klinic Crisis Line (24/7): 204-786-8686 or 1-888-322-3019
• Canada Suicide Hotline (24/7): 1-833-456-4566
• Mobile Crisis Service: 204-940-1781
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness (24/7): Services available in Cree, Ojibway, Inuktitut, French and English at 1-855-242-3310
• Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 1-888-292-7565
• Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366

On Campus:

• The Student Counselling Centre (SCC) offers same-day, brief crisis and emergency services to students in very high distress. Call 204-474-8592 or drop in at the SCC’s office at 474 UMSU University Centre on Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM to discuss your situation and learn about their services.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

If you’re looking for mental health support:

• The Student Counselling Centre (SCC) offers individual counselling services, workshops and groups, and provides other mental health support resources depending on the services that will best meet your needs. Students are welcome to drop by the office to ask questions and learn about options for support. All services are confidential and free for students to access.
• Student Services at Bannatyne Campus (SSBC) also offers free and confidential services for students or residents of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. These include individual counselling and mental health supports, as well as referrals as needed. Contact 204-272-3190 or email BCSS [at] umanitoba [dot] ca to connect with their office.
• Healthy U is a peer support service powered by student volunteers who are trained student health educators. They provide mental health, sexual health and overall wellness education. You can find the Healthy U crew in the Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education) which is open on a drop-in basis for students to consult with health and wellness professionals and trained peer educators on a variety of health and wellness topics.
• Students covered by UMSU’s Enhanced Care or Basic Care Health Plan have access to Empower Me, a confidential mental health and wellness service for 24/7 support and immediate access to clinicians for crisis situations. The platform allows students to choose the level of support that is best for them at any time.

These are a small sample of the resources available to students within UM and in the community. 211 Manitoba provides more information on health and social services throughout the province. Students can also connect with the Rainbow Resource Centre for support to the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Women’s Health Clinic, Men’s Resource Centre of Manitoba (204-415-6797), and other community resources. Additionally, the SCC can help refer students to other community resources when needed.

OTHER PERSONAL AND CULTURAL SUPPORTS

Depending on what health and wellness service you’re looking for, UM has support available through a number of offices:

• University Health Service has a clinic on each campus, offering patient-centred primary care including the vaccines you need. Book an appointment, in-person or virtual, by calling 204-474-8411.
• Student Wellness is staffed by a diverse community of wellness professionals, student staff, and volunteers. This office can offer one to one support and connections to other available resources.
• Students are encouraged to visit Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge at 114 Sidney Smith St. on the Fort Garry Campus. It’s home to the Indigenous Student Centre advisors and Elders-in-Residence. Other student support providers spend dedicated time on location weekly. Cultural gatherings occur weekly, such as Sharing Circles, Fireside Chats, and so on. Indigenous students can access support from the Indigenous Student Centre by contacting 204-474-8850 or contacting isc[at]umanitoba[dot]ca.
• The International Centre can provide international students with help and support in all areas. Book an appointment with an International Student Advisor by calling 204-474-8501. Limited drop-in appointments may also be available in their office at 541 UMSU University Centre.
• The Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre offers one-on-one support to assist students of all beliefs and worldviews. They connect students with relevant resources and faith groups on and off campus that offer programming related to spiritual wellness and cultural humility through inter-faith engagement. Contact spiritualcare[at]umanitoba[dot]ca or 204-474-8721 to discuss your options.
• Student Accessibility Services is available to provide supports for students with disabilities and to foster academic success. If you require academic accommodations or accessibility supports, contact an accessibility coordinator at student_accessibility[at]umanitoba[dot]ca or at 204-474-7423.
• The Sexual Violence Resource Centre provides trauma-informed and survivor-centered support, resources and referral services for members of the UM community who have been affected by sexual violence in any capacity. Students are encouraged to contact svrc[at]umanitoba[dot]ca or 204-474-6562 for support.
• Recreation Services will help you stay active and keep moving, which is even more beneficial to mental health during busy times. A diverse selection of programs and services are being offered on both campuses, as well as virtual options. Those who are unfamiliar with UM’s sport and recreation facilities are welcome to book a tour.
• Connection Desk strives to be a one-stop-shop for the University of Manitoba community. We can help with general questions about UM – services and support offices, opportunities for students, event details, and more. Our team will make sure to connect you to the right place to get the answers you need about unique concerns. Stop by on the 1st floor of UMSU University Centre, across from the UM Bookstore and Starbucks.

Support for your mental health and wellness is available. If you’re feeling alone, know that there is a whole community of people around you who want to help and see you thrive. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Luke, a fourth-year student in Computer Science, is eager to explore the University’s wellness resources this Student Success Month.

“I’ve become more interested in the wellness part of things recently,” he says. “This upcoming year I’m more interested in looking into mental health supports than I was previously. I think this last year I’ve learned that mental health supports are useful and important. I’m interested in learning what we’ve got here at the UM.”

Student Success Month is more than just academic support. It’s also geared toward building connections and a sense of belonging. Paulyn De Leon, a first-year student in the College of Pharmacy, reflects on the sense of excitement and community that the Fall term brings. “During the start of a new Fall term, I like the vibes of the campus. It just feels like a community,” says Paulyn. “When I come in for the Fall, I enjoy seeing all the people. I feel like it motivates me, and I look forward to that.”

Throughout October, students can participate in a variety of workshops and events focused on:

• Academic writing and study skills workshops
• Research support and library services
• Career development sessions
• Mental health and wellness resources

Events are hosted across both Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses, online and in-person. From study tips to self-care, take a look at the events calendar and find what fits your goals this Student Success Month!

Join us Thursday, March 6, 2025, for the third session of the Teaching and Learning Research Colloquium Series. Dr. Matthew Quesnel [B.A./13, M.A./15, Ph.D./20] (The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning) will share his research examining the connection between international students’ metastereotypes and seeking out peer support and support services offered by their postsecondary institutions. Quesnel will share his research findings and explore how they can inform strategies for fostering a more inclusive campus environment, promoting accessing UM support resources, and improve academic success and well-being for international students.

The Teaching and Learning Colloquium Series, hosted by The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, supports educators in creating a learning environment that responds to the changing needs of learners and strengthens student supports. It provides a platform for UM scholars and educators to share knowledge, research, and success stories to empower learners.

The series was designed “to provide an opportunity for faculty and higher education professionals to gather and talk about students’ support needs, barriers students may face in seeking help, and effective strategies for supporting and enhancing student learning,” says Quesnel, Teaching and Learning Colloquium Series chair.

Register for Barriers to Support: Metastereotypes and Help-seeking Among International Students. 

Location: Room 325, Education Building 

Date: Thursday, March 6, 2025 

Time: 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

Session details: 25-minute presentation, followed by discussion and refreshments. 

We’ll start where our assignments usually start – you are given a set of instructions telling you to find sources and write your paper. Sounds simple enough in theory, right? Well sometimes it is, and that is great, but when it’s not, take a breath and explore the different ways the UM libraries can help. A great place to start is the Learning Support page, which outlines many of the resources and services offered by the UM Libraries. If you already have a particular question or challenge you are looking for help with, here are some of the specific ways the UM Libraries and librarians can support you.

If you are new to doing research, consider making a one-to-one appointment with one of UM’s librarians for support on how to search for sources. They can help you get familiar with the UM Library system including the basic “library search” (like google but better for research), as well as the various databases available. UM librarians can also help you understand the types of sources to look for based on your assignment requirements (what is peer-reviewed anyway?) and how to use filters to make finding them easier. This will help to ensure that, once you find the perfect source, it really is the perfect source.

If you would like to do your research more efficiently, librarians can teach you tips and tricks to streamline your search. Not all search terms are created equal, and a librarian can help you figure out the best search terms to use to find the topics you need. They can also help you understand and filter the information provided for each source to help you quickly determine if a source is right for you and what you are working on.  

If you are looking for something on a more obscure topic, it might sometimes feel like no one has written anything that covers what you need. That is the time to find your subject librarian. Subject librarians are not only research experts but experts in a particular field and so will be best able to help you with everything from knowing which database to start in to helping dig up more niche information.

If you find the perfect source but can’t seem to access the document, reach out to any of the UM’s librarians either through a one-to-one appointment or through the online chat, Ask Us. Through the mysteries of the libraries (or perhaps knowing where else to look or how to use Document Delivery), there is a pretty good chance the librarians will be able to help you out.

Whatever aspect of research you are working on, UM librarians are excited and ready to help. You can find them through the online chat, one-to-one appointments or drop-in sessions – more information on all of these can be found on the UM libraries website.

If you’re interested in learning more about pathways to becoming a therapist, be sure to attend one or more of the Discover Your Future in Healthcare  (DYFIH) virtual sessions or check out one of the recorded sessions and discover the many healthcare options available for you! Career Services will be highlighting a few healthcare occupations this year including:

• DYFIH – Art Therapist: Tuesday, February 18 | 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.
• DYFIH – Mental Health Therapist/Counsellor: Thursday, February 20 | 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.
  • This session will have panel members with Clinical Psychology background, M.Ed in Counselling Psychology, Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Masters in Social Work

Each session in the series offers the chance to learn first-hand about the occupation and will feature a few professionals from the field who will speak about their experiences in the role. Admissions and academic program information will also be highlighted, if applicable.

All sessions will be virtual. Register in advance on UMConnect to reserve your spot today!

Career Services supports all University of Manitoba graduates with their career planning and job search needs. If you need some help in making a career decision, you can book an appointment with a Career Consultant. Visit the Career Services webpage for more information on how to access the resources and services available for you.

What is the Charge Ahead program?

Offered through the Student Transitions and Success Centre, Charge Ahead is a peer-facilitated program that equips students with the tools, resources, and community they need to succeed in university and beyond. Rooted in UM’s commitment to fostering resilience and academic excellence, the program offers a blend of individual mentorship on drop-in and appointment basis and interactive workshops that transfer academic skills and contribute to student success holistically.

Our new space: A Place to connect and thrive!

Made possible through the 2023-2024 Strategic Initiatives Funding, we are opening the doors to our new Charge Ahead space in room 107 Tier Building. This space will function on a drop-in basis and will provide students at every stage of their academic journey with the opportunity to:

• Meet with highly trained peer mentors who can provide guidance and help create an actionable plan for success
• Participate in interactive activities, including conversation groups and skill-building workshops designed to address the unique challenges that students face
• Access curated resources on study strategies, positive psychology, resilience and more
• Find a quiet corner to study, reflect and recharge in between classes
• Build meaningful relations by connecting with peers that share similar goals and challenges

Join us for the grand opening:

We’re inviting all students, staff, and faculty to join us in celebrating this exciting development. Come explore the space, meet the Charge Ahead team, and learn more about how we can support your journey at UM.

Date: January 30, 2025

Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Drop by any time!

Location: 107 Tier building

The Charge Ahead program thrives on collaboration between a dedicated group of peer mentors, staff, and the broader UM community. Built on the values of encouragement, inclusivity, and personal development, this initiative creates a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed.

For any questions: please email Charge.Ahead[at]umanitoba[dot]ca

We look forward to welcoming you to our space and supporting your journey to success. Let’s charge ahead together!

• Choose a mental health organization to learn about or support
• Help a friend struggling with their mental health by learning how to support them
• Ask about how your school, workplace or community is creating change for mental health
• Nurture your own well-being by practicing and learning mental health strategies
• Get involved in a mental health initiative or organize an event to support mental health
• Engage in conversations about mental health to fight stigma

Share your actions using #BellLetsTalk and help inspire others.

How UM is joining the conversation

Staff, faculty and students are all encouraged to join in the conversation and raise awareness about the importance of mental health and wellbeing. Explore supports for students and resources for employee wellbeing. Attend one of the events listed below and do something for your own mental health this week.

Events for Students

Pet Therapy
Tuesday, January 21, 2025; 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  |  Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education), Fort Garry Campus

Pause for paws – take some time to de stress and unwind with some furry friends!

Mindful campus room
Wednesday, January 22, 2025; 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  |  Bannatyne Campus (Apotex 067 & 069)

Mindful campus rooms will include games, art supplies, and a place to relax, as well as giveaways, resources for mental health, and the opportunity to share ideas on how to achieve good mental health.

Mental health button making
Wednesday, January 22, 2025; 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  |  Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education), Fort Garry Campus

Join the Student Wellness Centre in taking time to de stress and make buttons, focusing on mental health messages you need – create your own or use one of our pre made templates!

Vision Board Workshop
Wednesday, January 22, 2025; 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.  (sign-up required)  |  Tony TK Lau Global Lounge (541 UMSU University Centre), Fort Garry Campus

Learn how to create a vision board for yourself to visualize your goals, keep you grounded or inspired!

Craftin’ Connections with SAS
Wednesday,  January 22, 2025; 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.  |  Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education), Fort Garry Campus

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is hosting a pom-pom crafting event! Drop in and make a pom-pom or mini toque! No experience necessary, supplies and instruction provided!

Mindfulness Meditation with the Multi-Faith Centre and the Buddha Meditation Centre Winnipeg
Wednesday,  January 22, 2025; 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.  |  Multi-Faith Centre (521 A/B UMSU University Centre), Fort Garry Campus

Led by experienced monks from the Theravada tradition, this session is open to all ages and levels of experience – whether you’re new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, these sessions offer a welcoming space for personal growth and relaxation. All are welcome!

SWC Pop-up @ Bannatyne
Monday, January 27, 2025; 11:30 – 1:00 p.m.  |  Brodie Atrium, Bannatyne Campus

Join the Student Wellness Centre team at their table in the Brodie atrium for a fun activity that highlights the impact of alcohol on your body, and learn tips to both stay safe and have fun.

Events for Staff and Faculty

Making Music Work for You
Monday, January 20, 2025; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  |  Virtual (sign-up required) – available to staff and faculty at all campuses; event registration (to obtain the meeting link) is available on the UM Intranet

A critical exploration of how to create playlists to improve mood, focus and well-being. Bring your own headphones and music device!

Mindful campus room
Monday, January 20, 2025; 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.  |  Bannatyne Campus (location posted on the UM Intranet)

Staff and faculty are invited to come and take a mindfulness break on your own or with fellow colleagues. Colouring, games, and a variety of mediums will be available to explore, as well as a meditation/quiet zone.

Staff Snack & Wellness Break
Tuesday, January 21, 2025; 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.  |  Fort Garry Campus (location posted on the UM Intranet)

Come drop by and grab a snack, Bell Let’s Talk Day swag, and some tips for supporting your mental health.

Stretch It Out
Tuesday, January 21, 2025; 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.  |  Fort Garry Campus (location posted on the UM Intranet)

This guided stretching session will focus on the common aches and pains experienced by those that sit for a majority of their workday. Modifications will be provided for anyone that may need it so everyone can get the most of the stretches. A handout will be provided to take home with descriptions of all the stretches.

Free Group Fitness Access
Wednesday, January 22, 2025; All Day |  Active Living Centre (Fort Garry Campus) & Joe Doupe Recreation Centre (Bannatyne Campus)
Join us on Bell Let’s Talk Day! Stop by the Customer Service Desk with your staff card and workout gear to enjoy a free day of activities with Recreation Services. Let’s prioritize mental health by staying active, connecting with others, and promoting well-being together.

Zen Zone
Wednesday, January 22, 2025; 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.  |  Fort Garry Campus (location posted on the UM Intranet)

Whether you are new or experienced, come drop by the Zen Zone for a safe and quiet place to meditate. A drop-in style session, you can come in and stay as long as you wish and have a quiet space for meditating. If you’re new to meditation, come drop by to try it out and get some tips on how to make meditation work for you.

Colouring for Calmness
Thursday, January 23, 2025; 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  |  Fort Garry Campus (location posted on the UM Intranet)

A drop-in, come-and-go session for staff and faculty to take a break and try colouring to relax and unwind. Colouring is a great way to support your mental health by focusing on an external cue and relaxing from the stress of your day. All supplies will be provided, with a variety of designs to choose from.

January 9 — As more students with learning disabilities pursue post–secondary education, the needs of the UM student population continue to evolve. When needs are not met, students with learning disabilities are more likely to trail behind their peers in academic achievement and graduation rates.

Join us on Thursday, February 6, 2025, for the second session of the Teaching and Learning Research Colloquium Series. Dr. Lauren Goegan (Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology, Faculty of Education) will share her research about inclusive pedagogies and strategies to nurture success of students with learning disabilities more effectivity. Goegan and her team explore how basic psychological needs, such as autonomy, relatedness, and competence, impact postsecondary success. 

The Teaching and Learning Research Colloquium Series hosted by The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning (The Centre) is one way The Centre supports advancing pedagogies that respond to the diverse needs of learners. The colloquium series creates an opportunity for UM faculty to share their knowledge, research and success stories within the UM instructional community to empower learners. 

The Colloquium Series was designed “to provide an opportunity for faculty and higher education professionals to gather and talk about students’ support needs, barriers students may face in seeking help, and effective strategies for supporting and enhancing student learning,” says Dr. Matthew Quesnel, Colloquium Series Chair and Faculty Specialist – Science of Teaching and Learning, The Centre. 

A final session for 2024-2025 academic year, focusing on Metastereotypes and Help-seeking Among International Students, will take place in early March.

Register for Fostering Success: Addressing Basic Psychological Needs for Students with Learning Disabilities in Postsecondary Settings.

Location: Room 325, Education Building 
Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025 
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Session details: 25-minute presentation, followed by discussion and refreshments.