Your UL Exam Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Exam season is here - but don’t stress! Whether you’ve misplaced your student card, can't find your timetable or need to know what happens if you miss an exam, this quick guide has you covered.
No Student Card? No Problem.
If you forget your student ID on the day of your exam, you can still sit it!
Here’s what to do:
- Bring a driver’s licence or passport - these are the only acceptable alternatives.
- No ID at all? Visit Academic Registry (Main Building, E0-001) at least 30 minutes before your exam for help. They can use a screenshot of the Student ID and stamp this on headed paper for you to use.
Checking Your Exam Timetable
You can find your full exam timetable online here: Exam Timetables
It will show:
- The time
- Your room number
- The building / location
Make sure to check this in advance so you know where you’re going!
Arriving at Your Exam
Timing rules are strict, so keep these in mind:
- If you’re more than 20 minutes late, you won’t be allowed into the exam.
- Once you enter, you must stay for at least 30 minutes.
- You cannot leave during the last 10 minutes of the exam.
What NOT to Bring
Some items must stay outside the exam hall:
- Mobile phones
- Smart watches
- Calculator covers
- Pencil cases
- Any electronic communication device*
- Outdoor clothing
- Bags
*unless explicitly approved by the relevant academic staff member
When in doubt - leave it at home!
MCQ Exams Reminder
If you have an MCQ-style paper, you’ll need a 2B pencil. Don’t forget!
If You Miss an Exam
Life happens - but don’t ignore it.
If you miss an exam, contact:
- Academic Registry: 061 233 755
- Your module leader - reach out as soon as possible.
I-Grades (Incomplete Grades): What They Are & How They Work
You may apply for an I-Grade if you miss an exam due to:
- Serious illness
- Bereavement
- Pregnancy-related issues
- Uncontrollable circumstances
It’s important to note:
- If you apply for an I-grade you cannot sit your exam & if you sit your exam you cannot apply for an I-grade
- Applying for an I-grade can affect your progression
- All applications will be reviewed by the I-grade committee
Before applying, it’s strongly recommended to speak with our Advice Team at advicehub@ul.ie. They can advise you on your best options!
How to Apply for an I-grade:
You can apply through the I-grade portal on UL‘s website!
- The I-grade portal opens: 9am, 1st December 2025
- I-grade portal closes: 5pm, 6th January 2026
You can apply or find more information here:
UL I-Grade Information & Application
Final Tips
- Check your timetable early
- Bring the right ID
- Don’t take your phone into the exam
- Plan your route to the Main Building
- Reach out for help if you need it - you’re not on your own
Best of luck in your exams - you’ve got this!