Exam Issues

Students » Exam Issues

You're responsible for keeping on top of your exam schedule and writing exams during the regularly scheduled period.It's important that you're planning ahead, organizing your time, and being proactive with your assignments and exams. We aren't able to help you out of a bind due to poor planning. Be sure to wait until the final exam schedule is posted before booking any travel.

Exam FAQ

I am feeling unwell – should I attend my exam?

If you’re sick, it’s important that you stay home – no matter what you think you may be sick with (e.g., cold, flu, other). See the information under “I missed an exam. What do I do?” for next steps.

I missed an exam. What do I do?

Students who miss a final exam due to illness or extreme personal distress and would like to apply for a deferred exam must submit a request for an academic concession within 48 hours of the missed exam. All appropriate documentation must be submitted within 14 calendar days of the missed exam.

If you miss a midterm exam or other coursework, this is considered an in-term concession. This is a different type of academic concession and is granted at the discretion of the Instructor.

Can I rewrite my final exam if I was sick the first time I wrote it?

No. UBC Science does not permit rewrites of final exams. Once you write an exam, you have made a conscious decision to write it, so there is no recourse. If you are not in the proper condition to write the exam, you have the option of not writing the exam and then requesting Deferred Standing. Keep in mind that you must be in good standing in the course and have a valid reason for missing the exam in order for your request to be considered.

What if I have a religious observance that clashes with an exam date?

Students must give advance notice of the conflict - see more information about conflicting responsibilities. 

What if I have multiple exams scheduled at the same time?

This is an exam clash—multiple examinations scheduled on the same day at the same time. Your typical starting point is your instructor, but rules vary a bit by term. Review the UBC Student Services Exam policies.

What if I have too many exams scheduled in one day?

An examination hardship is defined as three or more end-of-term examinations scheduled to start and end within a 24-hour period. Students must talk to the instructor of the second exam at least one month prior to the examination date for courses in the Winter Session, or no later than two weeks prior to the examination date for courses in the Summer Session. Review important information on Exam Hardships in the UBC Calendar.

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