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Procedures if you are ill on the day of the exam

Every college has a different procedure for dealing with students who are ill on the day of the exam or during the exam. It is a good idea to find out from your JCR or tutor what these procedures are.

College nurses play an important role in looking after students during exam term. Try and find out when and where they are available.

Illness during revision time
If you are ill during revision time, it is essential that you see either a doctor or the college nurse. Not only is this advisable so you receive appropriate medical care, but if you need to appeal against their exam results on the grounds of ill health, you will need to provide medical evidence.

You should also contact your Tutor. Depending on the nature of your condition you may be entitled to extra time, sitting your examinations in College or at a different time than scheduled. Similarly, if you are ill and are having difficulty completing a project or dissertation you may apply for an extension.

In all instances, your Tutor is responsible for submitting an application together with any supporting evidence of your behalf so you should contact your Tutor as soon as you are aware that you may be in difficulty.

Illness on the day of the exam
If you are ill on the day of the exam and can prove that you will have not seen the exam paper or had contact with someone who has sat the exam, then your college may arrange for you to re-sit the paper. Remember to tell someone that you are ill and can't go to the exam whether that is your college nurse, personal tutor or senior tutor. You should try and remain calm and remember that people in your college will be experienced in dealing with such matters and will be able to reassure you.

Any arrangements will depend on the nature and severity of your condition but every effort will be made to enable you to take or complete your exams. However, if you are unable to sit any or all of your exams your Tutor may apply for an examination allowance.

Illness in the exam
If you are ill during an exam, you must alert an invigilator, and certainly must not leave the exam hall without informing an invigilator that you are ill.

If you are absent for the whole of an examination paper or leave an examination unusually early or arrive unusually late (and you are allowed to continue with the examination), then the first marker of your script will be notified.

For more information see:
Health Issues in exam term
Sleeping Better
Relaxation
Exam Warnings and Allowances

CUSU provides confidential, free, non-judgemental support and information to individual students. Contact the CUSU Education Officer, Welfare Officer or Women's Officer by email, phone or by dropping into the office if you would like support or information on any topic.