By Srishti Sawant

Stress levels are rising as the semester draws to a close. Final exams, major projects, and last-minute assignments often carry more weight than earlier assessments, making this time of year especially challenging. As grades are being finalized and GPAs are on the line, test anxiety is becoming a common experience across classrooms. Students often see assessments later in the semester as their final opportunity to raise or protect their grades, which adds pressure and can affect focus, confidence, and performance. Even students who feel prepared may struggle with nerves, racing thoughts, or self-doubt during tests.

“When you’re nearing the end of the semester, you feel more anxious because it’s kind of the last improvements you can make to your grade. The last few assignments can truly make or break your overall grade for the semester,” said Jyothsna Gundala [10]

Test anxiety doesn’t just impact academic performance; it can also affect sleep, mental health, and motivation. While some people may brush it off as simple nerves that students should “push through,” this mindset overlooks how deeply stress can compound as deadlines stack up. When students feel that one exam could significantly influence their final outcome, the pressure can become overwhelming, making it harder to stay calm and perform at their true ability.

While test anxiety is common, students note that preparation can help reduce stress. “I’m not that good at dealing with the pressure,” Gundala [10] added, “but ideally you should plan ahead and set up a game plan. The earlier, the better.”

As the semester ends, recognizing that many students are experiencing similar stress can be reassuring. With support from teachers, peers, and proper planning, students can navigate this high-pressure period and finish the semester feeling more confident and prepared.