How to manage assignments, exams, and group work in Australian universities is one of those topics that seems straightforward until you’re actually doing it. Australian universities have continuous assessment, which means assignments throughout the semester, plus exams, plus group work. Managing all of this can be overwhelming. I’ve struggled with it, and I’ve watched friends struggle too. The difference wasn’t just ability, it was having systems and strategies.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, and I’ve watched friends learn the same. Some developed good systems and managed well. Others struggled with organisation and time management. The difference was having strategies and systems.
So here’s everything I know about managing assignments, exams, and group work in Australian universities, based on what actually works.
The Reality: What You’re Actually Dealing With
Let me start with this, because understanding what you’re dealing with helps you manage it.
Australian universities have continuous assessment. You don’t just have one big exam at the end. You have assignments throughout the semester, and they all count towards your final grade.
Multiple assignments are due at similar times. Different subjects have assignments due around the same time, which can create pressure.
Exams come at the end of semester. After all the assignments, you still have exams to prepare for.
Group work is common. Many subjects have group assignments, which add another layer of complexity.
But here’s what I’ve learned: it’s manageable if you have systems. Don’t try to wing it. Plan, organise, and manage your time. It makes everything easier.
Managing Assignments: The Key Strategies
This is where most of your time goes, and here’s what works.
Start early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start working on assignments as soon as you can, even if it’s just planning or research.
Break assignments into smaller tasks. Large assignments can be overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes them less daunting.
Plan your time. Know when assignments are due, and plan when you’ll work on them. Don’t leave everything until the last minute.
Understand the requirements. Read assignment instructions carefully. Make sure you understand what’s being asked, what format is required, and what the marking criteria are.
Get feedback early. Don’t wait until you’ve finished. Get feedback on drafts or plans. This helps you improve before you submit.
But here’s what I’ve learned: assignments take longer than you think. Don’t underestimate how long they’ll take. Start early and give yourself plenty of time.
Managing Exams: Preparation and Strategy
This is stressful for many students, and here’s what works.
Prepare consistently. Don’t just cram before exams. Study regularly throughout the semester, and review material regularly. This makes exam preparation easier.
Understand the exam format. Know what type of exam it is, what format questions will be in, and how much time you’ll have. This helps you prepare effectively.
Practice under exam conditions. Do practice exams under timed conditions. This helps you get used to the pressure and manage your time.
Review past exams if available. Many universities provide past exams. Use them to understand what to expect and practice.
Take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat well, and manage stress. You can’t perform well if you’re exhausted or stressed.
But here’s what I’ve learned: exam preparation is about more than just studying. It’s about understanding the format, managing your time, and taking care of yourself. All of these matter.
I’ve written about how to prepare for open book vs closed book exams if you want more detail.
Managing Group Work: The Challenge
This is often the hardest part, and here’s what works.
Choose your group carefully if you can. If you can choose your group members, choose people who are reliable and committed. This makes group work much easier.
Communicate clearly. Set expectations early. Agree on deadlines, responsibilities, and how you’ll communicate. Clear communication prevents problems.
Divide work fairly. Make sure everyone has clear responsibilities and that the work is divided fairly. Don’t let one person do everything.
Meet regularly. Don’t just divide work and hope it comes together. Meet regularly to check progress, discuss issues, and make sure everyone is on track.
Deal with problems early. If someone isn’t pulling their weight, address it early. Don’t wait until the last minute when it’s too late to fix.
But here’s what I’ve learned: group work can be challenging, but it’s also valuable. It teaches you skills you’ll need in the workplace. Learn to work effectively in groups, even when it’s difficult.
I’ve written about group assignments in Australia how to handle free riders if you want more detail.
Time Management: The Foundation
This is the foundation of everything else, and here’s what works.
Use a calendar or planner. Keep track of when assignments are due, when exams are, and when group meetings are. Don’t try to remember everything.
Prioritise. Not everything is equally important. Focus on what matters most: assignments that count towards your grade, exams, and key concepts.
Plan your weeks. Know what you need to do each week, and plan when you’ll do it. Don’t just hope you’ll find time.
Be realistic. Don’t plan to do more than you can actually do. Be realistic about how long things take and what you can accomplish.
But here’s what I’ve learned: time management is personal. What works for one person doesn’t work for another. Find a system that works for you, whether that’s a detailed schedule or a more flexible approach.
I’ve written about time management tips for international students if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I manage when multiple assignments are due at the same time?
Plan ahead. Don’t wait until assignments are due. Start early, and work on assignments gradually. If multiple assignments are due at the same time, prioritise and plan your time carefully.
What if I’m struggling with an assignment?
Get help early. Don’t wait until you’re desperate. Talk to lecturers, use support services, or get help from classmates. The earlier you get help, the easier it is to catch up.
How do I prepare for exams when I have assignments due?
Balance your time. Don’t ignore assignments to study for exams, and don’t ignore exams because of assignments. Plan your time to cover both. Start exam preparation early, not just before exams.
What if my group members aren’t doing their share?
Address it early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Talk to them, set expectations, and if necessary, talk to your lecturer. But try to resolve it within the group first.
Can I get extensions on assignments?
Sometimes yes, but it depends on the university and the circumstances. You usually need a good reason, like illness or family emergency. Don’t count on getting extensions. Plan to finish on time.
What if I fail an assignment or exam?
It’s not the end of the world. You can usually still pass the subject if other assessments are good. But failing affects your grade. Learn from it, get help, and do better next time.
Final Thoughts
Managing assignments, exams, and group work in Australian universities requires planning, organisation, and time management. It’s challenging, but it’s manageable if you have systems and strategies.
Don’t try to wing it. Plan ahead, start early, and manage your time. Use support services, work with classmates, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Plan and organise. Don’t try to manage everything in your head. Use calendars, plan your time, and start early. It makes everything easier.
If you’re still planning your study journey, check out my guides on how to study effectively in Australian universities and understanding Australian grading systems. And when you’re managing assignments, exams, and group work, plan ahead, start early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone needs help sometimes.