Exam stress

Assessment periods are a stressful time

Exams and academic assessments are designed to test your academic performance under a certain amount of stress, such as performing under exam conditions or completing a piece of work by a deadline. We often need a certain level of stress to help us to perform well.  

Feeling able to do your exam doesn’t necessarily mean being on peak performance or feeling like you can perform at 100% – this is not realistic for anybody. It is quite common to feel anxious in the run up to an exam, to find it difficult to eat and to have a bad night’s sleep. 

Having ordinary feelings of stress or anxiety is part of everyday life, and it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are unwell or have mental health difficulties. Rather than trying to avoid stress (which isn’t possible), it can be important to learn about what causes us stress and how we can respond to it.

Ways to support yourself

• Read our counselling blogs on managing exam stress and taking care of your emotional and mental wellbeing during the exam period 
• Review your revision and exam skills if you’re struggling with your studying. You can get support via Academic Skills in Library Services  
• Take time for breaks and rest within your schedule – it’s important to rest your mind and body, and to do things that are relaxing and fun 
• If you’re worried about being able to do your assessments, you may want to consider applying for extenuating circumstances. You can contact your Student Support Officer to find out your options 
• Reach out for support - it may be helpful to contact your GP if your level of stress feels unmanageable and you are concerned about your mental health. You can also contact us to speak to someone one-to-one for support with exam stress. 

Specialist organisations 

MIND
For more detailed information about stress, building resilience and how you may respond to it. 

Mental Health Foundation
Read their guidance on how to manage and reduce stress.