How to Cope with Academic Stress During Exam Season

Understanding academic stress 

Exam season can be a challenging time for students and families. 

A certain level of pressure can be motivating, but when stress becomes overwhelming, it can affect learning, confidence, and wellbeing. Parents often notice changes such as disrupted sleep, anxiety, or loss of motivation, especially as assessments approach. 

At Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong, we believe academic success and wellbeing must go hand in hand. Helping students manage stress is an essential part of helping them perform at their best. 

Why exam stress affects learning 

When students feel anxious, their ability to focus and retain information can suffer. 

High stress levels can 

• Reduce concentration and memory 
• Lower confidence and motivation 
• Affect sleep, mood, and energy levels 

Learning works best when students feel supported, calm, and prepared. Managing stress is not about lowering expectations. It is about giving students the tools they need to meet them. 

Creating healthy routines during exam season 

Simple routines can make a significant difference. 

Encourage your child to 

• Maintain regular sleep and wake times
• Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated
• Build short breaks into revision time 

Structure helps students feel more in control. Even small habits, such as preparing a revision plan or packing bags the night before, can reduce daily stress. 

Focus on progress, not perfection 

One of the biggest sources of academic stress is fear of failure. 

At NAIS Pudong, teachers encourage students to focus on progress and effort rather than perfection. Mistakes are treated as part of learning, not something to fear. 

Parents can support this by 

• Praising effort and persistence 
• Avoiding comparisons with others
• Helping children reflect on what they have improved 

This approach builds confidence and resilience, especially during exam periods. 

The importance of breaks and balance 

Revision is important, but constant studying is not effective. 

Students learn better when their time includes 

• Short movement breaks 
• Time outdoors 
• Opportunities to relax and recharge 

Activities such as sport, music, or creative hobbies help reduce stress and improve focus. Balance supports both mental health and academic performance. 

How schools can reduce exam pressure 

A supportive school environment plays a key role in managing stress. 

At NAIS Pudong, small class sizes allow teachers to notice when students are struggling and respond early. Support includes 

• Clear guidance on exam expectations 
• Structured revision support
• Regular check‑ins with teachers and tutors 

Pastoral care teams work closely with academic staff to ensure students feel supported as individuals, not defined by exam results alone. 

Talking openly about stress 

Children do not always know how to explain how they feel. 

Creating space for open conversation helps students process stress. Simple questions such as “How are you feeling about your exams?” or “What feels hardest right now?” can open valuable dialogue. 

Listening without judgement often matters more than offering immediate solutions. 

Preparing students for long‑term success 

Learning how to manage stress is a life skill. 

Students who develop healthy coping strategies during exam season are better prepared for future challenges, including senior school, the IB Diploma Programme, and university study. Our IB average score of 37 in 2025 reflects not only academic ability, but students who feel supported, prepared, and confident. 

Supporting wellbeing at NAIS Pudong 

The best way to understand how we support students during exam season is to see our school in action. 

When you visit NAIS Pudong, you will see 

• Calm, focused learning environments 
• Teachers who balance challenge with care
• A strong commitment to student wellbeing 

Book a school tour or contact our admissions team today to discover how NAIS Pudong helps students manage academic stress and achieve their best.