Students in front of the Exam Schools
Students in front of the Exam Schools

Trinity exams: your essential preparation checklist

You'll find a range of resources to support you throughout exams season on the Oxford Students website, as well as guidance on exam wellbeing and preparation to help you navigate this time. 

Follow these steps ahead of your exams so you're fully prepared.

View your exam timetables

Your course timetable is published on the Exam timetables page at least six weeks in advance of the date of your first exam, with all dates shown, not just the first.

Your personalised timetable, including locations, will be available on Student Self Service at least three weeks before your first exam. 

Check you've been entered for the correct exam(s)

Take the time at the start of term to check that you are entered for the correct exams. Any requests to change your entries should be made through your college.

Mock exams and orientation sessions in Week 3

Book an invigilated mock exam or orientation drop-in at the Exam Schools to help you prepare for your upcoming sittings in Trinity term. Sessions are available to book for:

All sessions take place at the Exam Schools throughout Week 3 of Trinity term.

Mocks are a great opportunity to experience realistic exam conditions, while orientations are more casual sessions to try out the Chromebooks used during typed exams, familiarise yourself with the building, and to ask any questions.  

If you're sitting an exam at St. Luke’s Chapel, you will be contacted separately with details about orientation and mock exams there.

You can view more information on mocks and orientations on the Exam wellbeing and preparation page.

Get ready for online exams

There are important actions to take before and on the day of your online exams

To prepare for your online exams (sat remotely), watch this video guide and follow these four key steps to ensure a smooth experience: 

  • Practise
  • Know when you are expected to start
  • Keep your Inspera test browser window open throughout
  • Only press ‘submit now’ when your response is final

If you're sitting an exam in Inspera, set up and test Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your device beforehand to avoid issues on the day of your exam. 

For in-person computer-based exams (for example at the Exam Schools), you will need to use your device for MFA, and know your username and password. It is recommended that you have two methods set up, with the primary method being the Authenticator app. Set up and test your MFA.

Helpdesk support for online exams

If you're sitting an online exam outside of an invigilated venue and need help before, during or after it, contact the online exams support desk (SSO required), open Monday to Friday, 8:30am–6:30pm (UK time) when an exam is live. Students in the middle of an exam are prioritised. (Please note, the helpdesk is for online exam queries - please contact your department for issues about coursework submissions). 

Know your time eligibility if you have exam adjustments in place

If you have exam adjustments in place, added writing and rest time are now merged with no reduction in overall time, making it easier to manage.