Exams are a daunting prospect for most people. Understanding the reasons for exams and knowing how you can have some control over the process, gives you the confidence required for a successful exam experience.
About exams
Click each statement to see the comment.
I hate exams!You are not alone. Most people find exams daunting. This workshop will help you prepare for exams.
Exams are an opportunity to show your lecturer that you understand the material you have studied. Contrary to popular belief, your lecturers do not try to trick or trap you.
If you enjoy the challenge of exams you probably prepare well for them, approach them with a positive frame of mind and, consequently, do well in them.
Some degree of exam ‘stress’ is normal and helpful. However, if your level of anxiety affects your ability to study, then you need to learn how to manage your exam anxiety.
Advantages of exams
There are some positive benefits in exams – can you find them?
Click the boxes below to find some advantages of exams over course assignments.
UNE’s exam timetable
The dates for UNE’s exam period can be found on UNE’s Principal dates calendar from the beginning of the year.
The UNE examination timetable, showing the date and time of each exam, is available approximately 8 weeks before the exam period.
Past exam papers
Studying past exam papers is a valuable aid to examination preparation. Past exam papers provide an opportunity for you to:
become familiar with instructions and exam format.
- analyse question topics – which topics recur? These would tend to indicate the areas of most importance in a unit.
- research answers to questions – as a form of revision.
- practise questions under exam conditions.
Access a range of past exam papers from UNE Exam paper search
What if I’m sick?
If you are unable to attend an examination because of illness or other unforeseen circumstances, such as a change in work requirements or a death in the family, you can apply for a Special Examination.
To apply for a Special Examination you must:
- Complete the Application for Special Examination form. Be sure to read the information on page 2 before completing the form.
- Attach supporting documentary evidence.
- Submit these to the Student Centre at: Student Centre, UNE, NSW, 2351.
- Inform your examination supervisor that you will not be attending.
Post mortems
By all means, you should learn from your past exam experiences – your mistakes – and successes. However, lengthy discussions about the exam with other students before receipt of your results, are unproductive and can be disheartening (often without cause). If necessary, discuss the exam paper with your lecturer.
