1.Get started preparing for your final exams immediately.
International students who are preparing for final exams at U.S colleges and universities should “start the first weeks of classes, get help as soon and often as possible, and make learning your priority,” Rick Lane, Director of International Student Services at the University of Illinois at Springfield, says.
Each class will have its requirements. These include papers, tests, and participation in classrooms. All of these will contribute to your final grade. It will help you plan your studies and manage your time.
2.Study hard but smart!
The following resources will guide you in the weeks leading to the final exam:
- The syllabus that you were given on the first day
- Notes from class lectures
- These are the questions and answers to past quizzes and tests
- Anything you might have written
Jen Nisevich (Associate Director of International Student and Faculty Services, Ohio University) will give you the class syllabus. This will include information about “the format for final exams.” Some… could be open-book exams, while others will allow students to use notes during the exam. Professors may also offer study guides online for final exams.
3.If you have any questions, meet with your tutors or professors.
Faculty members typically have to maintain a certain number of office hours per week. This allows them to be available for one-on-1 meetings to answer any questions. Maya Tsai is the Director of International Programs at Gwynedd Mercy University. She recommends that you “take advantage” of the professors’ offices and tutoring services on campus in preparation for your final exams.
Many colleges offer to tutor students who have completed the same course as you. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the course material and any topics that interest you. While you’re preparing for your final, you will get assistance with assignments.
4.It would be best if you found a place to focus on schoolwork.
Focusing on the final days can mean the difference between passing a course or getting a high grade. Finding a place to study with no distractions is a great way to keep your focus.
A comfortable, controlled environment that allows you to focus on your studies is important for final exam preparation. You could do this in the library, in your residence hall or a cafe. It doesn’t matter what it is, but it should be somewhere you can focus while you study.
5.Do not rely on studying all night right before the exam.
International students often hear horror stories about older students crammed for their final exams. Students looking to excel on their final exams should avoid all-night cramming, excessive caffeine and tired eyes. If possible, avoid these last-minute study strategies. Procrastination (or putting off your studies until the last week of finals week) can often lead to poor grades.
Your success will depend on your ability to manage time in the final days of finals week. You will be in the best possible position for exam day by planning your study sessions, eliminating distractions and gathering all your study guides.
6.Take care of your body while studying.
Your body is your most important asset. This will help you prepare for your final. A good night’s rest, eating well on exam day, and drinking enough water can all make a difference to your final grade.
You should review all the lessons you have learned if you’ve done well throughout the term. You can study alone, with a partner or in small groups. However, you need to make sure you can dedicate enough time to studying for your exams. Take breaks, and don’t overload your brain with too many study sessions.