How to survive VCE exam season without stress

Preparation, a balanced lifestyle and treating exam season as a “cross-country trek” are some ways students can combat stress in their final weeks of Year 12, experts say.

As thousands of Victorian Year 12s face the most intense weeks of their schooling lives, education experts are warning students, and their parents, not to let the pressure of exam season take over.

Australian Catholic University education expert Dr Kylie Trask-Kerr warns the final countdown to VCE is when balance matters most.

“Rest, eat well, and exercise. Balance is not a luxury, but part of effective preparation,” she said.

Instead of simply clocking study hours, Dr Trask-Kerr encourages students to plan their revision carefully, focusing on techniques that boost understanding and confidence.

“Don’t stress yourself out by comparing your preparation with others. Planning and perspective are key. You’ve got this,” she said.

Experts say referencing past exams is one way to ease nerves.

Australian Catholic University’s standardised assessment expert Associate Professor Steven Lewis agreed preparation was the key to reducing anxiety.

“Seek out past exams to familiarise yourself with what to expect. Don’t let yourself be caught off-guard, as this could increase your anxiety,” he said.

Inclusive education expert Dr Matthew White stressed the importance of practising with any special provisions in place, ensuring students build confidence with their supports.

“If you’ve got special provisions, it’s important to practise using them. Take your rest breaks or extra time and build that into your practice, so it becomes second nature when you are in the actual exam,” he said.

While a little stress is normal and can motivate students to focus and perform, too much could quickly become harmful, Dr Trask-Kerr said.

“Some pressure is normal, but too much can cloud focus and wellbeing. If stress feels overwhelming, talk with family or school staff for support,” she said.

Above all, keeping exams in perspective is vital, with experts warning students and families against viewing exams as the ultimate test of their worth.

Treating exam season like a “cross-country trek” than the “pinnacle of a mountain climb” is one way to combat stress.

“Visualise the exam as part of the cross-country trek of your educational journey, rather than the pinnacle of a mountain climb or the culmination of all your schooling,” Dr Trask-Kerr said.

“Education is about far more than an exam result, and you have so many options past Year 12.”

Parents play a crucial role in helping students maintain this perspective.

“Parents can help by staying calm and keeping routines steady at home. Offer support and reassurance rather than pressure,” Dr Trask-Kerr said.

“It’s their Year 12, but your quiet encouragement can help them through it.”

Former school principal and ACU educational leadership expert Associate Professor Paul Kidson reminded students they have already done the heavy lifting.

“This is finals territory. Coaches of the winning team haven’t kicked a ball. Teachers have given all the strategies, the content, the tips, and the best advice they can give, but it’s the students who will play the game,” he said.

Originally published as How to survive VCE exam season without stress