Review exam guidelines: Exams can be extra overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. Whether it’s an online or in-person exam, you need to follow the university’s examination protocols. Check out the Office of the Registrar’s website to learn about these things and more.

• Places to take online exams on campus
• Important information about exam conflicts, illness and accommodations
• Guidelines for using calculators during exams
• Identification
• What to do when leaving an exam
• Punctuality
• Deferred exams
• External exams

Have questions about your program or course requirements? Talk to an academic advisor.

Here are some examples of topics that an academic advisor can help with:  

• What to do if you miss an exam
• The McMaster Student Absence Form (MSAF) process
• Questions about future courses, majors, and course and program selection
• Switching Faculties (contact the Faculty you’re thinking about switching to)
• Last-minute accommodation needs 

Need help finding your exams? Watch our navigating exams video (covers popular exam locations) or check the virtual campus map.

Make sure you know where you’re going. Watch our navigating exams video (covers popular exam locations) or check the virtual campus map. 

Before entering the exam room:  

• McMaster student cards or government issued photo ID are required at all examinations.
  • If you don’t have any photo ID, you won’t be allowed in the exam room. To purchase a replacement MacCard go to the MacCard counter in the Campus Store.

• Remember to use the washroom before entering the exam room.
• You will be able to enter an exam room up to 30 minutes after the start of an exam. 

After you enter the exam room: 

• If you bring a backpack, you’ll be asked to leave it against the wall of the room.
• When entering the exam room, you should find a seat and make sure that you’re writing the correct exam written by your instructor. (Some courses have different exams for each class section. I.e., Econ 1B03 C01, Econ 1B03 C02.)
• Place your student card or government-issued photo ID on the upper right-hand corner of the desk. Leave it there until the invigilator has collected your completed exam.
• Other personal belongings and food:
  • Small personal belongings (e.g., purse, cell phone) may be placed under the chair or desk.
  • All electronic devices or cell phones must be turned off.
  • Drinks are only allowed in spill-proof containers. No food is allowed.
  • Hats with brims must be removed or the brim must be turned to the back. 

Once the exam’s started: 

• Make sure that all exam papers, booklets, scan sheets and scrap paper have your name, student number, subject and course code.
• Ensure that scan sheets are filled in — no extra time is given to complete the scan sheet.
• If you need anything (e.g., pencil, scrap paper, washroom break), raise your hand and an invigilator will come to you.
  • If you need a McMaster-approved calculator (Casio fx-991 and Casio fx-991MS), you can ask an invigilator to borrow one. 

• In the event of a fire alarm or any emergency, you should remain seated; exam staff will provide instructions.
• If you arrive late, no extra time will be allowed to complete your exam.
• You aren’t allowed to leave an exam room until 45 minutes have elapsed from the start of the exam (even if you complete the exam before that time).