What is an examination?

A few times each semester you will have to sit exams, where your knowledge from the course is assessed. The teacher decides the form of the examination, and it may depend on the content of the course.

At studera.nu you will find a long list of detailed explanations on what different examination forms entail:

Different types of assignments and examinations

Sitting Exams at SLU

Higher education institutions have their own specific examination rules and practices. The link below will show you the SLU examination rules and practices, such as how to apply for a certain examination opportunity, or what rules apply when you take a written exam.

Sitting exams at SLU

If you need extra pedagogical support, you may apply for Examination Adjustments. Read more, following the link below.

Examination Adjustments at SLU

Written examinations

To sit for a written examination together with many other students, can be an ordeal. Here you will find some tips on how to manage the situation in a better way.

Prepare

The most important thing when sitting an exam is, needless to say, that you have studied for it properly in advance. Check out the study tips in the guide below:

It is often possible to access earlier exams given on the same course. It can be rewarding to get an idea of how the exam has been put together before, what type of questions students are typically expected to answer, and how long the exam usually is. However, your teacher might, of course, choose to do things differently this time, so, do not put too much trust into earlier exams.

Try avoiding cramming the last day, or night, but give yourself time for recuperation, and a good night’s sleep. The more alert and relaxed you are, the better. Bring something to eat and drink, to keep your energy levels up.

Focus on the questions and process your answers

Read, or listen carefully to all instructions, to avoid the risk of giving answers to questions not asked. Then, read through all examination questions, to be able to estimate how long you can spend on each moment. You can start with questions that seem easy, to get your speed up, and save the more challenging ones for later. Be sure to pause between tasks, and stretch a little now and then, to let the brain rest, preferably for several minutes, to create a clear break. Read through all your answers at least one extra time, before turning them in.

Reward yourself

After sitting the exam, you are worth a treat! A little party, or, at least, coffee with your course-mates!

You can discuss the exam with your course-mates, if that feels ok. Keep your notes from the course, to be able to return to them, should you have to re-sit the exam, or if you should wish to compare your teacher’s comments to your answers, with what you have tried to learn.

The University of New South Wales in Sydney has a checklist with tips for sitting exams.

Surviving exams

Take-home examinations

If you want to prepare for a take-home exam, it might be a good idea to check out the information offered by Trent University, on what to expect, and how to do really well.

Preparing for and Writing a Take-Home Exam

It might be a comforting thought that it’s ok not to succeed the first time around! There will be new examination opportunities, should you fail at your first go.