"This Can’t Be True": Student Shares Hilarious University Exam Rule That Sparked a Frenzy in Mzansi

"This Can’t Be True": Student Shares Hilarious University Exam Rule That Sparked a Frenzy in Mzansi

  • A university student shared an image of exam instructions that included a unique guideline allowing students to cry during exams, but with certain conditions
  • The unusual rule has sparked a mix of reactions online, with some finding it relatable and humorous, while others are questioning its seriousness
  • The viral post has led to discussions about academic pressure and the emotional toll of exams on students, with many appreciating the attempt to acknowledge their struggles

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A university student has caused a stir online after sharing an image of a set of examination instructions that included an unusual guideline, leaving many amused, while others expressed shock.

A student in Johannesburg sparked frenzy on social media after she showcased her hilarious university exam rule in a TikTok video.
A student in South Africa showcased a cheeky exam rule that sparked laughter on social media. Image: @sihler03
Source: TikTok

The student who goes by the TikTok handle @sihler03 showcased the official exam paper, which contained six standard rules. The first five were typical academic directives, such as answering all the questions, adhering to university examination rules, expressing clear views in responses, paying attention to spelling and grammar, and ensuring legible handwriting.

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However, it was instruction number six that stood out, capturing the attention of both students and online users. The rule stated the following:

“You are allowed to cry; however, sob softly in order not to disturb others. Also, ensure that your tears do not land on the answer script.”

The cheeky addition left social media buzzing, with many users saying the line perfectly captured the pressure and emotional toll students face during exam season. Some described it as “dark humour,” while others joked that it was the most relatable exam instruction they had ever seen.

While the intent behind the unusual rule remains unclear, several people speculated that it might have been added as a light-hearted way to ease students’ nerves ahead of the stressful assessment. Others suggested it highlighted the real challenges many learners experience, balancing humour with the harsh reality of academic pressure.

The TikTok user @sihler03, who posted the image on 15 September 2025, went viral on the internet, leaving netizens in a fit of laughter.

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SA cracks up over the Uni's funny exam instructions

Mzansi netizens were entertained by the university exam instructions as they took to the comments section with jokes, laughter, and their thoughts.

limart masilane’s | Archives said:

"I love whatever is wrong with UJ."

Fezekaa added:

"Does that institution take us seriously?"

Zanelle uMaKhumalo replied:

"This can’t be true."

Lisa stated:

"At least they're considerate bandla."

Mashadi Cummings shared:

"At least y’all are given a chance to cry. At UNISA, the invigilator app will red-flag us for crying."

Fanfixion commented:

"Aww, how considerate of them."

Nkosazana simply said:

"UJ lecturers and weird comments on the instructions."

Nam’angazi Nje expressed:

"Excuse me, what? I’d cry louder after seeing that."

Watch the video below:

A student in South Africa showcased a cheeky exam rule that sparked laughter on social media.
A student from Johannesburg set social media abuzz after sharing a hilarious university exam rule in a TikTok video. Image: @sihler03
Source: TikTok

Other schooling stories making waves

  • Briefly News reported that a Grade 1 learner's hilarious reactions during class had everyone remembering their school journey. The way his face told the story of every student's emotions left Mzansi in stitches.
  • A 26-year-old's decision to return to high school, who proved it's never too late for education. The inspiring way she tackled her studies had social media users cheering her on.
  • Another determined woman quit her job to focus on improving her results. The number of distinctions she achieved after making this bold move left everyone inspired.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Johana Mukandila avatar

Johana Mukandila (Human Interest Editor) Johana Tshidibi Mukandila has been a Human Interest Reporter at Briefly News since 2023. She has over four years of experience as a multimedia journalist. Johana holds a national diploma in journalism from the Cape Peninsula University Of Technology (2023). She has worked at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, PAICTA, BONA Magazine and Albella Music Production. She is currently furthering her education in journalism at the CPUT. She has passed a set of trainings from Google News Initiative. Reach her at johana.mukandila@briefly.co.za