Many students fasting during Ramadan find themselves managing their exam preparations alongside their Ramadan routines. With exams scheduled during this holy month, students strategically manage their time, prioritize rest, and keep a structured schedule to achieve optimal performance.
Grade 12 student Humaid Adel shared his approach to preparing for exams during Ramadan. He mentioned that his exams are set in the afternoon, from 12 pm to 2 pm.
“I have ample time to sleep the night before the exam, and on the exam day, I don’t need to wake up early. This gives me an opportunity to review my lessons one final time before heading to the exam,” he explained to Khaleej Times. 
However, he admitted that the first exam might be particularly challenging. “Physics requires significant concentration, so I expect it to be tough,” he added.
To prepare effectively, Humaid plans to review his lessons the night before, following Taraweeh prayers, and continue revising in the morning before leaving for the exam. “Studying properly while fasting is challenging, so I’ll use my time efficiently before noon.”
He also highlighted that Ramadan typically involves late-night social gatherings, making it tempting to stay awake longer. “I understand the need to organize my sleep schedule and start sleeping early. Concentrating while feeling sleepy is tough, so I’m adjusting my routine now. It takes at least two days to establish a disciplined sleep pattern.”
Adjusting Daily Schedules
Umm Mohammed, a mother of a seventh-grade student from Sharjah, shared her experience of adapting to her son’s schedule during Ramadan to accommodate his exams.
“Usually, my son sleeps early, but he tends to stay awake late during Ramadan. With exams approaching, I’ll ensure he follows a schedule that helps him stay fully focused,” she said.
She explained that her son would wake up for suhoor around 2:30 am and then return to sleep until morning to ensure sufficient rest.
For studying, Umm Mohammed intends to assist her son in reviewing his lessons immediately after iftar, maximizing his energy and concentration levels.
Some government schools sent out exam timetables last Friday, encouraging students to begin exam revisions.
The second-semester exams for the academic year 2024-2025 are set to commence soon. Students in the first cycle, specifically grades 3 and 4, will take exams across all subjects from March 10 to March 18.
Students in the second cycle will focus on projects rather than exams for core subjects but will take exams in Islamic Education and Social Studies on March 13 and March 18.
Third-cycle students will have exams for all subjects in the afternoon, from 12 pm to 2 pm, running from March 10 to 19. Exam periods across all levels will last two hours and include both online and written assessments.
Exam Preparation Tips
An expert advised against fasting on exam days for children who have never fasted before. Dr. Mazen Abou Chaaban, a paediatrics and paediatric nephrology specialist at Fakeeh University Hospital Dubai, mentioned that children unfamiliar with fasting might experience fatigue and difficulty concentrating, affecting their performance. A gradual approach to fasting was recommended to help children adapt without exhaustion, as previously reported by Khaleej Times.
No special rules apply on exam days other than ensuring students get sufficient sleep. “Even if they sleep for just an hour after studying, prioritizing rest is essential,” Dr. Chaaban noted, adding, “Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to eating. Proper hydration is also critical for maintaining focus and concentration.”
“Sleep is crucial for mental health. Students must get enough rest by going to bed early,” he added.
There are no strict dietary rules for students who already fast during exams. However, maintaining healthy habits from breakfast onwards is important the day before exams.
Prioritizing Quality Nutrition
Dr. Chaaban advised against consuming heavy, fatty, or sugary foods as they can cause sluggishness and drowsiness. Instead, he recommended a light, nutritious suhoor rich in protein and low in sugar.
“A good suhoor option is dates with bananas or a slice of toast with bananas. These foods provide sustained energy and essential nutrients,” he suggested.
Dr. Chaaban also emphasized the importance of hydration. “Hydration is vital. Students should continue drinking water after iftar and during suhoor to keep well-hydrated.”
“These steps can help students feel both physically and mentally prepared for their exams,” he concluded.
