How to study for college finals (and high school exams) – University of Cincinnati
Finals week. These two words alone are enough to spike your heart rate.
Whether you’re wrapping up your first semester at the University of Cincinnati or you’ve been through the grind a few times already, finals can feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right strategies, you can trade finals week panic for a plan.
This guide will walk you through how to study for finals in college (with a bonus section for high schoolers already prepping for the big leagues). We’ll cover the best study tips for finals week, ways to manage stress and how to walk into the exam feeling confident — not just caffeinated.
Your calendar is your secret weapon during finals. A well-planned finals week study schedule for students helps you avoid the dreaded all-nighter and keeps stress in check.
Here’s how to build one:
With a clear schedule, you’ll know exactly what to focus on each day, making finals week less overwhelming and way more manageable.
Not all study methods are created equal. For instance, rereading your textbook is not the same as studying. Try these proven techniques:
Read: Study tips for college: Strategies that actually work
Your study spot can make or break your focus, so find a space where you can study best:
Pro tip: if you’re someone who struggles with focus, start by slowly eliminating distractions with apps like Forest or the good old-fashioned “airplane mode” setting.
Let’s be honest — finals week stress is real. But with a few simple habits, you can keep calm and actually retain what you’re studying:
And if finals anxiety feels overwhelming, UC’s Counseling and Psychological Services has resources and support to help you manage it every step of the way.
Pack your bag with everything you’ll need to survive finals week:
Didn’t start early? Don’t panic — here are some last-minute study tips for finals:
UC also offers plenty of free resources, like academic coaching and peer tutoring through the Learning Commons.
Still in high school but already eyeing college? Finals week is the perfect training ground. The habits you build now will make college exams a lot less intimidating. Try these study hacks for high school finals (that work just as well in college):
The earlier you practice these strategies, the easier your transition will be when you’re studying for college finals — whether that’s here at UC or wherever your path takes you.
Finals don’t have to feel impossible. With a good study plan, smart methods, and a little self-care, you can walk into exam week with confidence. Remember: studying is about quality, not just quantity.
So the next time you wonder how to study for finals in college, return to these strategies, and make finals week less about stress and more about acing them like the pro you are.
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University of Cincinnati
2600 Clifton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-556-0000
© 2025 University of Cincinnati
