How to Beat Test Anxiety – A Guide for EFL Students (and Their Teachers)
It is test time at EAG. We know that you have been working hard to get ready for your end of term tests. But what if you’re doing everything right and still feel anxious before the test?
You’re not alone.
Test anxiety is a common experience for EFL students, and it can affect performance even when you’re well-prepared. In this post, we’ll look at what test anxiety is, what causes it, and how you can manage it—both as a student and a teacher.
What Is Test Anxiety?
Test anxiety is a form of performance anxiety that includes physical symptoms (like sweating, nausea, or a racing heart), mental symptoms (like blanking out or negative thoughts), and emotional symptoms (like dread or panic). It can be especially tough for EFL learners who are also managing language barriers.
What the Research Says
Test anxiety can significantly affect language performance, especially in speaking and listening tasks. Anxiety interferes with working memory, making it harder to recall vocabulary, understand instructions, or concentrate during reading.
What Can You Do to Manage Test Anxiety?
For Students:
- Prepare early and break tasks into manageable chunks.
- Relax before study sessions and tests.
- Visualise success: imagine yourself staying calm and doing well.
- Don’t study right up to the last minute—give your brain time to rest.
- Talk about your fears with a teacher or peer. You’re not alone.
For Teachers:
- Let students know it’s okay to feel nervous.
- Offer practice under real conditions (timed tasks, group oral practice).
- Teach relaxation exercises during lessons.
- Focus on progress, not perfection—celebrate small wins.
- Avoid surprise tasks—clarity helps students feel in control.
At EAG, teachers encourage students to…
…build their confidence through structured practice and positive feedback. We help learners set realistic goals and offer strategies they can use inside and outside the classroom.
So how much time will it take to feel more in control?
You don’t need to master every relaxation technique overnight. Even five minutes of breathing practice daily can lower anxiety over time. Think of it as mental warm-up—just like stretching before exercise.
Let’s Talk
Have you experienced test anxiety? What helps you manage nerves before tests? Share your tips below—we’d love to hear from you!
Good luck with your end of term tests!