How to Prepare Yourself this Exam Season

Empty tables set up in rows in the Physical Activities Complex (PAC) for undergraduate student exams

Set yourself up for success by getting your mindset right before things get hectic.

It might not be your favourite time of the year, but exam season is officially here — and these tips will help you move through it with confidence.

1. Plan ahead

Exam season moves fast. Get organized early:

2. Get Accommodations

Schedule your study blocks, take real breaks, and lean on your classmates when you can. And don’t forget — campus has so many support options you can tap into.

  • AccessAbility Services (AAS) offers accommodations and assistive tech tailored to your learning needs, from alternative testing setups to tools that make studying easier. If you think you might benefit from accommodations in future terms, apply early — it only takes a few weeks to process, and you don’t need a doctor’s note to get started.

Portal Grade Calculator will help you stay informed of your current standings in your classes. Calculate your overall GPA, a subset of your classes and explore different earned grade scenarios.

screen capture from the Portal app showing the grade calculator functionality
A student sitting at a desk with their laptop open while they write on a paper placed on the desk. He has a red backpack leaned against the table on the floor.

3. Use the best study strategies

Feeling overwhelmed is normal — the right strategies make a difference.

Try these quick tips and tools to develop your learning skills:

  • Time management

  • Note-taking and reading techniques

  • Assignment and exam prep tips

  • Adjust to university learning

And yes… even last-minute study tips if you’re in crunch mode.

4. Prepare your tools

Don’t forget:

  • WatCard

  • Approved aids (calculator, formula sheet, etc.)

  • Pens, pencils, erasers (check if your exam needs pencil only)

  • Clear, label-free water bottle

  • Only the essentials — leave personal items at home

Take a moment the night before to gear up and get organized. Prepping ahead of time helps you walk into your exam calm, confident, and fully equipped.

Two pencils, an eraser and a watcard arranged and placed on top a yellow background.
A screenshot of the Campus Map and Open Classrooms in Portal web

Need Study Spaces?

Use Portal Open Classroom to find it!

Open Classrooms in the Portal Map gives you up to date availability of classrooms around campus. See available locations and hours of operation. Check it out for your next group work or study session. 

5. Take Care of Yourself

Exams are stressful — make space for your well-being:

6. Rest & Recharge

After your exam:

  • Avoid overthinking every question — it won’t change the outcome.

  • Celebrate your hard work!

  • Reset, spend time with people you love, and head into next term refreshed.

A girl sitting around pillows with her legs crossed and enjoying a cup of tea.

Need Help?

When you need a little boost — whether it’s study strategies, time management help, or quick ways to stay focused, the Learning Support Quick Tips & Tools page has tons of easy resources to guide you.

If you know or suspect you have a disability or disabling condition that requires academic accommodation, support is available. If you’re looking for support, AccessAbility Services is here to help you develop your individualized academic accommodation plan for all components of your academic career.