Support for extenuating circumstances during the exam period
Final exams are fast approaching, and with that may come stress, anxiety, and a general feeling of uncertainty on how to proceed. UM recognizes the challenges associated with final exams and offers many supports to help prepare students for finals. Before taking your exam, please brush up on your exam basics to know what you need and where you may need support.
Even the most prepared student, however, may be faced with unexpected circumstances. In this case, a deferred exam may be considered. In the case that a medical or compassionate circumstance arises which prevents a student from writing an exam as scheduled, they may request a deferral. A deferral is a privilege for students. The UM’s Self-Declaration Policy for Students considers the reasons students may be unable to write an exam.
If you are unable to write an exam, and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for a deferred exam(s). Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under theUM Student Discipline By-Law.
Examples of non-valid reasons
- Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding)
- Optional travel
- Technological difficulties
- Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
- Employment-related commitments
- Academic/Exam Related Stress
Examples of valid reasons
- Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
- Unexpected compassionate circumstances
- Known conflicts of religious observance
- Bereavement or loss of a loved one
- Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event
If you are unsure if your reasons is valid or not, please check with an advisor in your faculty to help navigate the Self-Declaration form.
Even if the circumstances may not fall under what is acceptable for the Self-Declaration form, UM understands that regardless, students may be stressed or may have some difficulties preparing for their exams. In those cases, now is the time to reach out to student supports and resources. Student Affairs is in full swing for the exam season and students looking for support should reach out.
- For students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to stress reasons, health reasons, or have other accessibility concerns, please contact the Student Accessibility Services.
- The Academic Learning Centre is ready to help students with study skills, exam preparation, and writing workshops.
- The Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports are there to help manage stress, anxiety, and approach the exam season head-on.
Best wishes to all students in their preparations for final examinations.