We would like to wish everyone the very best of luck in their exams over the next few weeks. Please be sure to mind yourselves, take regular breaks from study, and try to get enough sleep and stay hydrated!
We are here to help with any questions or queries you may have about exams and can guide you to the relevant supports where needed. We’ve put together a short guide with the most frequently asked questions we receive at exam time to cut through the noise and hopefully help you get the information you need quickly!
First things first, it’s important to know that UL Student Life is independent of UL and is not involved in the process of exams, I-grades or repeats. For further information on the processes around I-grade and repeat decisions, you will need to contact Academic Registry through Topdesk here.
Where can I access my exam timetable?
You can access your exam timetable through the link below. The location and room number are included. Make sure to note the details before the exam!
🔗 https://www.timetable.ul.ie/UA/Default.aspx
I don't have my student ID. What are my options?
A driving licence or passport will be accepted as an alternative form of ID. If you don’t have any ID on you, head to Academic Registry (E0-001, UL Main Building) at least 30 minutes before your exam with your student number, name and date of birth. Academic Registry can use a screenshot of your Student ID and stamp this on headed paper for you to use.
What are the rules in the exam hall?
- You cannot enter the exam hall 20 minutes after the exam starts.
- You cannot leave the exam hall in the first 30 minutes or during the final 10 minutes of the exam.
- Phones, smart watches, calculator covers, pencil cases, electronic devices*, outdoor clothing and bags are not allowed in the exam hall.
*Unless explicitly approved by the relevant academic staff member.
What is an I-grade?
If you’re facing a sudden crisis just before or during exams or final assessments that stops you from completing your tests, assignments, or placements, you might be eligible for an I-grade. Applying for an I-grade can affect your progression.
You can apply for an I-grade if you miss an exam due to injury, illness, or bereavement. Information about I-grades and how to apply can be found below. It is important that you do not sit your exam if you are applying for an I-grade!
Am I entitled to apply for an I-grade?
You may be eligible if:
- You were sick or had a condition that seriously affected you during the exam.
- You were dealing with the death of someone important to you, such as a family member or close friend, around the time of the exam.
- You were facing situations beyond your control that made it impossible to attend the exam.
- You were dealing with pregnancy or issues related to it.
- You have experienced something similar to the above, which the Incomplete (I) Grade Committee may consider.
How can I apply for an I-grade?
You can apply here through the I-grade portal on UL’s website.
I-grade applications for the spring semester are open now and will close at 9am on Monday May 26th. Applications will only be accepted during this period.
If you’re using UL professional services like the Chaplaincy, Counselling, or Health Centre and want to apply for an I-grade, you can:
- Apply as usual through the I-grade portal.
- Let your professional know about your plan and ask them to be prepared to provide supporting documentation.
Once an I-grade application is made, it cannot be withdrawn, regardless of any assessment work you may have completed. Only completed applications will be considered. Supporting evidence is required for all applications.
Important notes about I-grades:
- If you apply for an I-grade, you cannot sit your exam. If you sit your exam, you cannot apply for an I-grade.
- It’s important to note that applying for an I-grade can affect your progression.
- If you are in your 4th year, you will not graduate with your class in August as you will need to repeat the module in August.
- You must sit the repeat exam in August, which means staying updated with the module content over the summer.
- If you fail the repeat exam in August, you will need to retake the module during the semester, or you will not progress to the next year.
- All applications will be reviewed by the I-grade committee.
If you would like to apply for an I-grade, you can do so here.
If you need guidance on the I-grade process and whether it applies to your situation, please email advicehub@ul.ie
Is the Commuter Hub running during exams?
Yes! Your Student Officer team will be running an Exam Breakfast where you can grab some food before your exam. There will be free hot drinks and snacks to fuel your brain. It will run on Monday to Friday from 8am to 10am in the Courtyard Meeting Room in UL Student Life (left door beside the main entrance). Please do pop in!
I still haven't found the answer to my question
For a full list of FAQs and further information on exams, grading, fees, etc., please follow this link.
Need help or support?
If you're concerned about progression or have further queries, you can book an appointment with our Advice Team here.
Wishing you all the very best of luck!