Comprehensive Guide to Success in LGS and YKS 2026 Exams: Vital Advice for Families

With the arrival of June 2026, the Turkish educational atmosphere is dominated by two major exams: the High School Entrance Exam (LGS), which is being held today, June 13, and the Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS), scheduled for June 20 and 21 [2]. The "Olay Bursa" newspaper and educational experts have provided a set of key recommendations at this critical juncture to reduce psychological pressure on students and families [1].

Stress Management: Acceptance Instead of Escape Many students experience heart palpitations, hand tremors, or insomnia in the days leading up to the exam. Dr. Pınar Aylin Kaya, a counseling expert, emphasizes that anxiety is a natural warning system in the brain and one should not seek to eliminate it entirely [3]. The main goal is to manage stress at a level that improves performance. If a student experiences a mental block during the exam, it is recommended to send a "safety" message to the body through a few seconds of deep abdominal breathing to restore focus [3].

The Vital Role of Families in Environmental Calm Families play a role beyond financial or logistical support during these days. Experts warn that children absorb not only their own stress but also the anxiety of their parents [3]. Families should avoid comparing their children with others and create a calm, tension-free environment at home. Reassuring the student that their value is not dependent on the exam result can lift a heavy burden from their shoulders [1].

Adjusting the Biological Clock and Nutrition For YKS candidates who have one week left until the exam, adjusting sleep patterns is vital. Students should synchronize their wake-up time with the exam start time (09:30 AM) starting today [4]. Regarding nutrition, specialists recommend avoiding new, very fatty, or spicy foods that may cause digestive problems. Additionally, excessive consumption of caffeine and energy drinks can increase heart palpitations and false anxiety [3].

Educational Strategies in the Final Days In the final week leading up to YKS, learning new material is not recommended. Instead, candidates should focus on analyzing mistakes made in practice exams (Deneme) [1]. Analyzing questions previously answered incorrectly is much more effective than solving hundreds of new, repetitive questions. Furthermore, maintaining a light study rhythm and reviewing key points instead of intensive study contributes significantly to consolidating confidence [4].