Looking for strategies to help you do your best on exams? U of G has got you covered!
The entire U of G community is here to support your success. Studying effectively, taking restorative study breaks, and caring for your mental and physical health will set you up to ace your exams.
Take your break with Exam Study Breaks
Did you know that taking study breaks is actually an important part of improving your exam performance?
Regular breaks can help you manage stress and improve your performance on exams and final assignments.
Find events happening across campus where you can recharge while connecting with your fellow Gryphons on GryphLife under the Study Breaks category.
See the list of Exam Study Break events on GryphLife.
Ongoing Exam Study Breaks
The following Exam Study Breaks are ongoing throughout the exam period.
Library Activity Table
Studying at the library? Stop by the Activity Table to grab some study break activities. You’ll find activity books filled with colouring pages, sudoku puzzles, crossword puzzles, study tips, and more, as well as colouring utensils.
- Monday, April 7 to Monday, April 21 (Library 1st floor)
Affirmation Station
Want to feel inspired and ready to take on the day? Visit the Affirmation Station to read what others are saying and add your own. If one resonates with you, feel free to take it with you!
- Monday, April 7 to Friday, April 18 (Library 1st floor)
Worry Box
We all feel worried sometimes. We encourage you to stop by the Worry Box, write down a worry, and imagine you’re releasing it when you drop it inside the box. By releasing the worry, we hope it will help you feel a little more lightness as you move through your day.
- Monday, April 7 to Monday, April 21 (Library, 1st floor)
Postcard Project
If you’re studying in the library, you may find a surprise! Throughout the exam period, we’ll be scattering postcards with a message of encouragement and a coupon for the Library’s Starbucks.
- Monday, April 7 to Monday, April 21 (Library)
Residence Exam Study Breaks
Come out to your residence nightly stressbuster from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Connect with your RA to learn more about the programs offered throughout the week.
Academic resources
Looking to improve your studying strategies?
The McLaughlin Library offers a variety of online guides to help you prepare for exams, including guides on:
- Multiple-choice exams
- Essay exams
- Problem-solving exams
- Short-answer exams
- How to study effectively
- Getting ready for exams.
Other resources to support academic success include academic coaching and appointments, academic support in residence, research assistance, the Science Commons, study skills and time management assistance, and writing assistance. Student Accessibility Services offers a Daily Drop-in for timely support for registered students. The Undergraduate Academic Information Centre has a full list of online resources to help you with your academic success.
Need to talk?
Maintaining your mental health is important, both inside and outside of exam time. No matter what you’re dealing with, we have supports to help.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or having trouble coping, take advantage of the mental health supports available to you.
Counselling Services
Same-day professional counselling sessions by phone, virtual or in-person
Monday to Friday – 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Call 519-824-4120, Ext. 53244, to set up a session
Student Wellness Navigators
Looking for mental health support but not sure where to start? Book a session with a Wellness Navigator to discuss your concerns and find the right resources for you.
Sessions by phone, virtual or in-person
Monday to Friday – 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Call 519-824-4120, Ext. 52131, to book an appointment.
Student Support Network
Confidential peer-to-peer support, drop-in style in-person or virtual
Monday to Friday – noon to 10 p.m. during classes, noon to 8 p.m. during exams
Book a Student Support Network session
Here 24/7
Local mental health and crisis phone line
Available 24/7 1-844-437-3247
Good2Talk
Support phone line for Ontario post-secondary students
Available 24/7 1-866-925-5454
Crisis Text Line
Text-based mental health support
Available 24/7 Text “UofG” to 686868 to start a conversation.
Unable to take your exam?
If you are struggling and unable to complete an exam or final assignment due to medical, psychological, or compassionate reasons, you may be eligible to request academic consideration through your program counsellor.
Learn more about the academic consideration process and contact your program counsellor to request accommodation.
U of G’s Student Experience advisors are also available to support you:
- Cultural Diversity Advisor supporting Black and racialized students
- International Student Advisors
- Indigenous Student Advisor supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis students
- Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor supporting LGBTQ2IA+ students
- Multi-Faith Programs Coordinator and Multi-Faith Resource Team
- Off-Campus Living Advisor
Look after yourselves this exam season and don’t forget to check in on your friends. Best of luck!