Student LifeUniversity of British Columbia

Best UBC Study Spots

Best UBC Study Spots
During midterm and finals season, it becomes almost impossible to find a studying spot where you can focus and get stuff done. While the Nest, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, and Koerner Library are great places to study, they are usually flooding with students making it hard to find a good study spot. 

To get your mind off looking for places to study, and help you focus on what matters, here are some hidden, or lesser-known, studying spots at UBC which will definitely help you ace your exams!

1. Classrooms in Vantage College
At night, after all classes are done for the day, the classrooms in Vantage College are empty and available for anyone to come in and study. There are so many classrooms there I’m sure you won’t have a problem finding a quiet study spot.

2. Asian Library
Tucked behind some really big trees, the Asian Library is a cozy and quiet study place for those who want to study in a library but don’t want to spend hours looking for a table at IKB or Koerner.

3. Brock Hall
Did you know that the UBC Enrollment Services building has a bunch of hidden study spots? Scattered throughout the building are tables, study carrels, and desk space for your studying needs. To top it off, the whole building is very quiet.

4. Student Residence Commons Block
If you live in residence, the commons block is a great alternative to the library. It is usually a quiet place to study at night, and the fact that it is just a few steps from your room is a bonus.

5. Allard Hall - Law Library
As long as you stick to the places that aren’t reserved for law students, you should be good! This is a quiet study space with modern facilities guaranteed to help you focus!

6. Empty Classrooms
There are so many empty classrooms available around campus that can be turned into impromptu study spots, especially in Buchanan (specifically block D), Scarfe, and Henry Angus during finals season. The classroom atmosphere is certain to help you focus. The only thing you need to be aware of is the building hours or an incoming class!

7. Loafe Cafe
Located in the Alumni Centre, the Loafe Cafe is perfect if you are trying to study while eating some good food! It may not be a quiet study spot, but I can guarantee you the food will make up for it! 

8. UBC Life Building aka The Old Sub
Less crowded than the Nest, and with many desks, chairs, and food outlets, the Old Sub is a great place to study for a long period of time.

9. David Lam Library’s Second Floor
Contrasting the chaotic and loud first floor, the quiet second floor of David Lam Library has computer stations, partitioned desks, silent study spaces, and group breakout rooms, making it one of the best study spots at UBC. 

And if you need help studying once you get yourself settled into one of these amazing spots, the Wizeprep Study Pass subscription has UBC (and other university) specific study guides, notes, mini videos, and everything you need to get the best scores on all your tests and exams.
Best Study Spots from Other Universities:
University of Toronto
University of Calgary
McGill University
Queen's University
University of Western Ontario