As the final exam period approaches, starting on December 9, 2025, we want to ensure that you’re well prepared for a successful exam period. Here are 3 key reminders as you prepare for your exams.
Be prepared:
- Carefully review and follow the exam instructions provided by your instructors about exam format, timing, location, and expectations. Not sure about the exam arrangements for your course? Visit the UBC exam schedule for a comprehensive schedule of your exams. For any clarifications, contact your instructor promptly.
- Be early for your final exam. You may be denied access to a final exam if you arrive more than 30 minutes after the exam has started. If you’re late but within the first 30 minutes of the exam, you can still write the exam but with time deducted.
Stay informed:
Sometimes things change. Check your email and Canvas Announcements for the latest course updates and always refer to your official exam schedule in the UBC exam schedule. Remember that mistakes can happen when copying information and you may miss an update when referring to screenshots.
Respect academic integrity:
Academic integrity is enforced in all exams. By writing a UBC exam, you agree to the University’s standards for academic honesty. As a member of the university community, you share a responsibility to uphold academic integrity as it ensures graduates are properly credentialed. Learn more at academicintegrity.ubc.ca
- All DAP exams start with an Integrity Pledge. By taking the exam, you agree to abide by the University’s rules described in the following sources:
- The Student Declaration
- Academic Honesty and Standards
- Student Conduct During Examinations
- Plus any special rules for conduct as set out by the examiner
- If any of these rules are broken, suspected instances of academic misconduct will be thoroughly investigated and are subject to disciplinary measures. Academic integrity is more than a list of ‘do nots. Learn more at academicintegrity.ubc.ca.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about final exams:
1. What do I need to do/bring on the day of the final exam?+
Before the exam:
- Check the time and location of your final exam on the UBC exam schedule.
- Bring your UBCcard and a second form of photo ID. Instructors can deny a final exam to those without proper identification. (Don’t have a UBCcard? Get yours at ubccard.ubc.ca.)
- Check your course syllabus and Canvas Announcements to learn which items are allowed in an exam and bring what you need (e.g., pencil, laptop, glasses, “cheat sheet”).
- Do the Online Exam Tech Check at least 48 hours before each exam written on Canvas.
- Log in to your Canvas account before starting the exam.
During the exam:
- Read all instructions and questions carefully.
- Avoid using keyboard shortcuts or the browser’s Back/Forward buttons to navigate an online exam.
- Keep track of the time and don’t forget to submit the exam when you’re finished. Online exams will auto-submit when the timer runs out.
2. What should I do if I can’t write my exam (e.g. sickness, injury, etc.)?+
If you have valid grounds for academic concession, you can submit a petition for academic concession. To submit a petition for academic concession, follow these three steps:
- Consult your course syllabus for any instructions provided by your instructor.
- Review the information on the academic concession page.
- Self-report your absence by completing the academic concession petition as soon as possible and/or within 48 hours of the missed final exam.
If you start an exam, the grade earned will stand. You are not allowed to rewrite the exam for higher standing, and academic concessions cannot be granted for exams that have been started. Find additional information at Exams – myUBCDAP.
3. I am registered with the Centre for Accessibility (CFA). How do I book exams with my preapproved accommodation? +
If you are registered with the CFA and are eligible for exam accommodations, please book your final exam using CFA’s Exam Registration System by Tuesday, December 2nd at 11:59pm (i.e. 7 days before the start of the formal exam period). For more information, visit exam accommodation guidelines and expectations. Please ensure you follow any additional instructions outlined by your instructor and the CFA.
If you start an exam, the grade earned will stand. You are not allowed to rewrite the exam for higher standing, and academic concessions cannot be granted for exams that have been started. Find additional information at Exams – myUBCDAP.
4. I’m a commuter student. Are there any accommodations on-campus or extended library hours available during the exam period?+
UBC offers commuter students affordable overnight Commuter Student Hostel rooms to support academic success and involvement in campus co-curricular activities. During exam periods, hostel rooms are available seven days a week. Libraries will also be extending their hours of operation: https://hours.library.ubc.ca/
5. When will my grades be available?+
Your final grades will be viewable on Workday within two weeks after the exam period ends.
6. I need help and I’m not sure what to do.+
If you have any questions, OSAS is here to help! Please visit Program Advising – myUBCDAP for more information on how to connect. For more in-depth planning, we encourage you to book an online appointment (virtual and in-person appointments are available).
