Entrance examinations are among the most stressful tests a student can take. These range from admission to preferred schools to high-stakes exams like the National Competitive Examination (NCE) for the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT), and other prestigious institutions such as Ateneo de Manila University’s ACET and De La Salle University’s DLSUCET.
There are also competitive exams for scholarship programs like the Congressional Scholarship Program and the 4Ps Scholarship, each with its own set of challenges and pressures.
For students preparing for exams like the PSHS entrance test, the stress is often compounded by the complexity of the exams and the weight of expectations. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and impressive track record, and is considered one of the top science and technology high schools in the country. This reputation motivates many students to aspire to study there, making the competition fierce and the stakes high.
Similarly, the UPCAT, DLSUCET, and ACET serve as gateways to higher education at some of the country’s most prestigious universities, further intensifying the pressure students feel.
According to Mental Health PH, this pressure can take a serious mental and emotional toll on students. The stress from these exams often manifests in anxiety, self-doubt, and burnout—issues that have persisted for years but have only recently been openly discussed and addressed. Many students feel the weight of their family’s expectations, alongside their own desire to succeed for their future careers.
Parental pressure, combined with the internalized need to perform, can also lead to overwhelming stress.
Students preparing for these elite exams need effective coping mechanisms. The Mapúa Malayan College Mindanao website suggests that time management, adequate rest, and seeking emotional support from family, friends, or counselors are some ways to alleviate the pressure. Schools and local governments are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health support for students during these high-stress periods, offering resources such as counseling services and stress management workshops.
By addressing the emotional impact of these exams, we can help students achieve their academic goals without compromising their mental health.
