Exam Support
1. Pray
Talk to God about how you are feeling. Ask him to help you with peace, steady nerves, effective learning, fruitful revision, healthy balance and clear recall.
Don’t forget to pray for your friends too.
Here at St Edmund’s we would love to pray for you. Let us know your name and the dates of your first and last exam using the form below. We will pray for you in our daily prayers and on Sunday in church. If you want, why not give a copy of your timetable to someone who will pray for you.
Eph 6:18 "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests."
2. Have a good perspective.
You are not defined by your grades. Obviously, you want to do as well as you can, but your worth is defined by the unchangeable, unconditional solid fact that the God who made the universe loves you more than you can possibly imagine. His love is not dependant on how well you perform in exams or in life.
Keeping a right perspective will take some of the pressure off and help you to not be overcome by nerves.
1Co 2:9 However, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him”
3. Don’t forget to take regular healthy breaks.
Slow down and take breaks from studying throughout your study days. Taking breaks can improve focus and wellbeing. It’s good practice to take two short breaks each morning, afternoon and evening when doing intense study. Stretch, pray, get outside into a green space just for 10 minutes – it will give you better concentration.
Another good ‘break’ idea is taking 15 minutes of exercise such as a brisk walk around the block or dancing around the living room – these activities release endorphins which reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness, boosting your mood and can improve your memory. Maybe go for a walk once a day.
Don't forget to get enough sleep.
Ps 3:5 I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me
4. Celebrate!
Exams can feel like a huge mountain to overcome, so when exam season ends, take time to celebrate all your hard work! Find healthy and safe ways to celebrate and try to include your family and those who have been praying for you, worrying about you – and yes, even those that have been nagging you.
Dt 12:7 There, in the presence of the LORD your God, you and your families shall eat and shall rejoice in everything you have put your hand to, because the LORD your God has blessed you.
5. When the results come in.
Remember, even if you don’t get the results you wanted, it is not the end of the world. Take a moment to take stock, reset and make a new plan.
Jer 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.