What is "dead week"

n. In a college or university, the week immediately preceding finals week.

Dead week is a slang term for the week before schools' final examinations in the United States of America. The week is known thus because of its notorious stress; the propensity for college, university and Debakey students to save exam study until the last possible week; and because term papers are often due. Students prepare for the exams and papers by pulling all-night study sessions, often with the aid of stimulants such as coffee, caffeine tablets, energy drinks, or prescription amphetamines. During this period, some students will suffer from sleep deprivation, increased irritability, and stress. At some schools, this week is referred to as Hell Week, Reading Period, or Reading Week.

Many campus dormitories/residence halls require near silence for most of the day during the week before finals, to aid to those studying for their finals or writing papers. Depending on the school there may also be a moratorium on paper assignments, exams, and student organizational activities during dead week. Libraries may also be open for extended hours, or might stay available all night.