The presumption is that all exams are closed-book. Individual faculty may choose to give open-book or limited-open exams. However, unless a faculty member specifically announces an open-book exam, you should assume the exam is closed-book.
The preferred method of writing in-class exams is on computer. The use of computers on exams is governed by policy. But, you may choose to write your in-class exam in blue books; however, additional time to write your exam will not be granted. These are available in the College Bookstore on a limited basis, stationary or office supply stores, or online. Get an ample supply early on. All take-home, self-scheduled, or exams in excess of 4 hours in length are expected to be typed.
Exams are identified by examination number only. You are assigned one random seven-digit number each semester. This exam code number will be posted to your MyLaw after it is generated. The examination numbers for each current semester will be generated after add/drop of that semester.
Your exam code number is to be placed as a header on each exam answer page and to be written on the exam question sheet.
By default, Microsoft Word saves the author's name with all documents that that author creates. Word does allow you to disable this feature for a particular document to ensure the anonymity of exams. You can still take these steps to remove this identifying information.
Read all directions carefully. Some exams are open book, some are closed book; some questions have word limits, some do not. Be certain you know the rules before beginning the exam. When in doubt, ask your instructor to confirm before the exam period; students are reminded not to contact their instructor during the exam period.
Each in person scheduled examination is administered in an assigned room. Some faculty ask that you take the examination in the assigned room only, others allow you to go to the other designated areas, and still others allow you to take the exam anywhere within the building. BE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT RESTRICTIONS EXIST. Do not assume that because you were able to take exam "a" in the library that you can take exam "b" there as well. Regularly scheduled exams must be taken within the Law School building. Further, if any exam corrections occur once exam administration begins, and you have left the room, there is no way for you to receive this corrected information. The start time for all scheduled exams is noted on the exam schedule. The start time is not the time you should arrive to the scheduled exam classroom. Arrive to the assigned classroom at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the scheduled exam.
If you are permitted to take your exam in the library and you elect to do so, please remember that the normal activities of patrons and staff will continue as usual. Do not expect or request complete silence.
Please refer to exam instructions on where to submit exam answers. Answers should be submitted no later than the stated end time of the exam.
If you begin to feel panicky about exams you may want to call the College's Counseling Center at 221-3620. The staff there is very experienced and helpful. They are located in McLeod Tyler Integrated Wellness Center.
If you feel ill before the exam, contact the Law School's Office of Student Affairs & Academic Support immediately at [[w|lawdeanofstudents]]. Once you begin an exam, it is difficult to accommodate your health condition. If you become ill during the exam, call the Office at (757) 221-1320.
If you are unable to take your exams due to an unforeseen emergency or health issue, contact [[w|lawdeanofstudents]] to arrange a make-up date. Typically, students must make-up an exam at the earliest practicable time and within 5 weeks of the originally scheduled exam date. If the disabling condition continues past the fifth week, the student shall take the exam as soon as reasonably practicable following the termination of the disability, but in no event later than the end of the exam period for the succeeding fall or spring term. If the disability continues beyond that period, the student shall receive a withdraw for all courses for which an exam was not taken.
