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Final exams can feel intense, but with the right preparation and support, you can go in feeling confident and in control. Now’s the time to plan ahead, build effective study habits, and take care of your well-being. Explore tools, workshops, and strategies designed to help you stay focused, manage stress, and set yourself up for success this exam season.
Last day to withdraw
What's the best choice - should you earn a D or F or withdraw from that troublesome course? Your Advisor, Student Learning Services, Early Support and/or Counseling can all help make sense of this big decision.
Get your accommodations set
If you are registered with Access and Inclusion Services and require academic accommodations for your final exams, submit your exam seating requests before April 6. Contact the Exam Team at examsais@mtroyal.ca or 403-440-6420 if you have questions. Don't wait until the last minute!
Wellness: Getting Yourself Ready for Exams
Exams are not just about how much you study. They are also about how well you take care of yourself. Here are a few reminders that can make a big difference:
- Prioritize sleep. Your brain processes and stores what you studied while you rest.
- Eat well and stay hydrated. Your mind works better when your body has fuel.
- Take breaks. Rest helps you focus and prevents burnout.
- Stay connected. Study with a friend or reach out to someone if you are feeling overwhelmed. It's okay to ask questions.
- Be kind to yourself. You do not need to be perfect. Consistent effort is what matters.
Academics: Create a study plan
This phase is all about time management and building a solid study plan.
Start smart: know exactly what's on the exam
Don't waste time studying the wrong things. Find out the content covered, the test format, the time limit, and what materials you can use.
Schedule study blocks
Start at the exam date and plan backward. Map out dedicated time blocks for studying each subject and set a clear start date.
Set SMART goals for every study session
Create specific goals like completing practice questions instead of simply planning to "study."
For more information, visit Student Learning Services' resources or book a one-on-one appointment with a Writing and Learning Strategist.
Final project prep and research milestones
At this stage, it is important to build the foundation for your final project success. The library is your research hub to help you through the final push of the semester.
- Academic Research Guide: The Library’s new Academic Research Guide is designed to help you get started and find your bearings with a clear, step-by-step roadmap. It guides you through the entire process: from the planning phase and choosing a topic and keywords, to finding and evaluating information sources, all the way to your final draft. Get started.
- Consult a subject librarian: Schedule a one-on-one appointment with your subject librarian for help with hunting down scholarly sources or chatting through your search strategy. We can help clear the roadblocks and get your project moving. Schedule appointment.
Academics: Practice, practice, practice!
This is the time to focus on powerful study techniques that make your learning stick.
Ditch passive re-reading and test yourself instead
Instead of just re-reading notes, test yourself first. Identify what you know and don’t know, and focus your energy on (re)learning topics and concepts you know you struggle with the most.
Find your space
Book a group study room (up to 1 week in advance), use one of the library’s rolling whiteboards, or borrow a mini whiteboard from the Service Desk so that you can draw out mind maps and write out your notes.
The 'teach it' test: use the Feynman technique
If you can't explain a concept simply, you don't fully understand it. Try to teach a tough topic out loud to an imaginary student or a friend, using only simple language. This instantly reveals gaps in your knowledge.
Mix up your topics
Switch between different topics and types of problems during a single study session (e.g., mix practice questions from Chapters 1, 3, and 5).
Practice under pressure: mimic test conditions
Simulate the real exam. Take full or partial practice tests with a stopwatch and no notes. This is the best way to find out if you can finish on time and where your genuine knowledge gaps are.
Ask the Chat
Use the Library’s chat option during open hours for quick answers to last-minute questions or to be pointed in the right direction for questions that might arise during your studies (like citing a source or finding evidence to support your writing).
For more information, visit Student Learning Services' resources or book a one-on-one appointment with a Writing and Learning Strategist.
Exam Anxiety: Set yourself up for success
One of the most effective ways to calm exam anxiety is to get ahead of it. This video walks you through practical tips to manage stress and find support in the weeks before your exams.
Wellness tips
- Be kind to yourself. Progress matters more than perfection. Celebrate small wins. Finishing a chapter is worth acknowledging.
- Ask for help early. Talk to your professor if something is not clear. Join a study group or visit campus supports such as tutoring or peer support.
- Manage tech distractions. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb and keep it out of reach while studying. Your focus will improve instantly.
- Practice exam conditions. Use a timer and try recalling information without your notes. This helps you notice what you understand and what needs more review.
- Check out Wellness Services Mini Mental Health Primer to learn personalized strategies to support your mental health during exam season. Register here.
Remember: taking care of yourself is part of studying.
Wellness tips
- Use short study bursts. Try studying for 25 minutes, then take a five-minute rest. This keeps your mind sharp and prevents burnout.
- Sleep is more powerful than extra hours of studying. A rested brain learns and remembers better.
- Fuel your body. Eat balanced meals, drink water, and choose nourishment instead of relying only on caffeine.
- Practice gentle self-talk. Notice what you have accomplished. Confidence grows when you acknowledge your efforts.
- Prioritizing exercise offers numerous benefits, like reducing stress, boosting cognitive function, improving time management, increasing energy and enhancing your mood. Take a breather and schedule movement breaks at MRU Recreation.
- Check out Wellness Services Mini Mental Health Primer to learn personalized strategies to support your mental health during exam season. Register here.
Visit the Cozy Corner: a quiet space with friendly support during final exams.
Take a break at The Cozy Corner before or after your exams. Refuel, de-stress and recharge with meditation, crafts, puzzles and a warm drink from the tea bar. Drop in, take a breath and give yourself a moment to reset.
Open April 15 - 17 | April 20 - 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
I 124 (Dance Studio)
Academics: Review, rest and ready your mind
The final days are for fine-tuning and ensuring you are mentally and physically prepared.
Final check: light review only
Stop learning new material. Use summary notes, flashcards, or formula sheets for a quick, high-level review of key concepts, definitions, and main ideas. Do very small, targeted practice drills only on those few critical concepts you still mix up.
Get organized: plan your exam day logistics
The day before, check the exam location, set your alarms, and pack your bag with your ID, pens or pencils, and a calculator. Eliminate logistical stress so you can focus on the exam itself.
Practice writing down key formulas and facts quickly on a piece of paper. You can then do this immediately when the exam starts to clear your mind and secure the tough-to-remember information.
For more information, visit Student Learning Services' resources or book a one-on-one appointment with a Writing and Learning Strategist.
Helpful tips
Pre-emptive printing
Don’t wait until 10 minutes before your exam or project deadline to print. Get your study guides, cheat sheets, or physical copies of projects ready in advance to avoid last-minute surprises. Pre-load your ONECard with funds and familiarize yourself with MRU’s printing areas and processes.
Equipment loans
If your laptop is acting up or you forgot your calculator, charger, or headphones, remember that these items are available from the library on a first-come, first-served basis - we’re open extra early at 8 a.m. on the Saturday of exams to be there for you! Find equipment.