Finals
Finals are the University of Oxford examinations at the end of an undergraduate degree, usually sat at the Examination Schools on the High Street in subfusc, on which the class of degree depends. Formally they are the examinations of the Final Honour School in a subject; informally the building itself is called "Schools".
In practice
Most Finals take place in Trinity term, from late April to June, though some subjects examine earlier or assess part of the degree through dissertations. By tradition candidates wear a carnation: white for the first paper, pink for those in between and red for the last. After the final paper, friends often wait outside to cover the finisher in confetti, foam or food, a custom called trashing; the University and the city discourage it and may fine students for mess on the streets.
Why it matters to newcomers
In May and June the High Street around the Examination Schools is crowded at the start and end of each paper, and the stretch outside is sometimes cordoned off. If you employ or host students, Finals season is the one time of year when nothing else will get their attention.
Related
- Subfusc - what candidates must wear
- Collections - the practice exams that come first
- Tutorial - the teaching Finals examine
- The High - where the Examination Schools stand
Source: University of Oxford: examinations.