Navigating Final Exams After a Concussion: What Students Need to Know
Imagine this: Your friend has been studying for weeks, preparing for a crucial final exam. Then, out of nowhere, a sudden injury—maybe a sports collision, a fall, or an accident—leaves them diagnosed with a concussion. Now, they’re dealing with headaches, brain fog, and sensitivity to light, all while worrying about whether they’ll need to take that exam next week. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Concussions are common among students, and navigating academic responsibilities during recovery can feel overwhelming. Here’s what your friend (or anyone in this situation) needs to know.
—
Understanding Concussions and Academic Impact
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that disrupts normal brain function. Symptoms like dizziness, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating can make studying or test-taking nearly impossible. Unlike a sprained ankle or broken arm, concussions are invisible injuries, which means professors or administrators might not fully grasp the urgency of accommodations unless clearly informed.
Most schools recognize concussions as valid medical emergencies. However, policies vary. The first step is to review the institution’s academic regulations, often found in the student handbook or health services website. Many colleges and universities have protocols for temporary disabilities, including concussions, that allow for exam postponements, alternative testing formats, or extended deadlines.
—
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Seek Medical Documentation
A formal diagnosis from a healthcare provider is critical. Your friend should visit a doctor, urgent care clinic, or campus health center ASAP. The medical report should detail the concussion’s severity, expected recovery timeline, and specific restrictions (e.g., “no screen time” or “limited cognitive exertion”). This document will serve as evidence when requesting accommodations.
2. Notify Professors and Academic Advisors
Open communication is key. Your friend should email their professors, explaining the situation briefly and attaching the medical note. Phrases like, “I’ve been diagnosed with a concussion and am following medical advice to prioritize rest,” set a clear, professional tone. Most educators will sympathize—many have dealt with similar cases before.
3. Contact the Disability Services Office
Many schools have offices dedicated to supporting students with temporary or permanent disabilities. These departments can formalize accommodations, such as rescheduling exams, providing quieter testing environments, or allowing breaks during tests. In the U.S., for example, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires schools to provide reasonable adjustments for health-related needs.
—
What If the School Says No?
While most institutions accommodate concussions, there are exceptions. If a professor is hesitant or unaware of concussion protocols, your friend should escalate the request. Here’s how:
– Appeal to higher authorities: Department chairs, deans, or student advocacy offices can intervene.
– Provide additional documentation: A follow-up note from a neurologist or specialist may strengthen the case.
– Invoke legal protections: In countries like the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects students with temporary disabilities. A polite mention of rights (e.g., “I believe ADA guidelines apply here”) can encourage compliance.
That said, pushing too aggressively can backfire. Staying calm, factual, and solution-focused is more effective than confrontational language.
—
Alternative Exam Arrangements
If the exam can’t be skipped entirely, schools often offer alternatives:
– Delayed testing: Taking the exam a week or two later, once symptoms improve.
– Oral exams: For students who struggle with written tests, verbal assessments may be easier.
– Split exams: Dividing the test into shorter sessions to reduce mental strain.
Your friend should ask what options are available and choose the one that aligns with their recovery.
—
Balancing Health and Academics
It’s tempting to “push through” symptoms to avoid falling behind, but concussions require rest. Returning to intense studying too soon can prolong recovery or worsen symptoms (a condition called post-concussion syndrome). Encourage your friend to:
– Rest physically and mentally: Avoid screens, reading, and stressful tasks for at least 48–72 hours.
– Gradually resume activities: Follow a doctor’s “return-to-learn” plan, which slowly reintroduces cognitive tasks.
– Prioritize sleep and hydration: Both are essential for brain healing.
—
Long-Term Considerations
If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, your friend may need to explore broader academic adjustments, like withdrawing from the semester or taking incompletes. While this feels drastic, health should always come first. Many schools allow students to retroactively withdraw or retake courses without grade penalties in medical emergencies.
—
Final Thoughts
A concussion doesn’t have to derail academic progress—but it does require proactive steps. By securing medical proof, communicating early with faculty, and leveraging campus resources, students can find a path forward without sacrificing their well-being. Remember: Concussions heal, but rushing recovery risks long-term consequences. When in doubt, prioritize rest; grades can be fixed later, but brain health can’t always be undone.
To anyone navigating this: You’re not alone. Schools are increasingly aware of concussion impacts, and support is available. Just ask.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Navigating Final Exams After a Concussion: What Students Need to Know