Stress is a natural part of a situation when we feel there is some sort of challenge. It doesn't need to be university-related only - a sports match or simple talk with someone can make us stressed and lead to high levels of cortisol.
So why do we only think of the bad outcomes? Your exams don't need to be stress free if you can turn this stress into something positive.
Studies say that even if the majority of students experience at least one stressful situation during exams, there is a way to keep the mind calm and focused. The key is to accept the situation as a challenge and convince yourself that the exam is not a threat, but an opportunity. Don't avoid the feelings of "knots in your stomach," and instead consider it as a part of the body's reaction to the challenge.
If we are stressed, we react negatively, including anxiety, panic attacks or depression. At that point, it can be hard to recover and refocus. So, try to take good care of yourself, eat well, and get some exercise to keep the stress in check, together with a focus on strong time management and a break from social media.
Research suggests that we should imagine the exam period as a running race. If we prepare our mind for the goal (assessment submission), and we are stressed in the right way stress can become a force for good. Our brain reacts well to challenges it faces: it wants to win.
To win is to achieve a dream mark, to finish the year or your course. If you remember the goal and the fact it is 'just a test,' you are more than ready to go through this exam period with stress as a natural and positive part of you.