They did it! They faced the revision. The snacks. The complete existential spiral. And they came out with exam results they can actually smile about (even if only slightly). Time to send a card? Absolutely.
But let’s be clear, not all messages are created equal. If you’re thinking of penning something “funny” that might make them cry instead of laugh, step away from the pen. Here’s a list of things you should absolutely NOT write in an exam congratulations card... unless your goal is to get uninvited from all future family functions.
1. “You did better than we thought!”
Translation: We had zero faith in you. Avoid at all costs, unless your vibe is passive-aggressive aunt.
2. “Imagine what you could’ve got if you revised.”
Maybe they did revise. Maybe they didn’t. Either way, let’s not reopen the stress wound, yeah?
3. “So… uni next?”
Nothing says ‘well done’ like a thinly veiled interrogation about their entire future.
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4. “You only passed because your teacher fancied you.”
Please. No. Gross and inaccurate. This is a congratulations card, not a teenage drama subplot.
5. “Bet you copied off someone smart.”
We’re going for supportive, not suspicious. Keep it cute.
6. “About time you did something right.”
Sounds more like a line from a courtroom than a card. Hard pass.
7. “Wow, didn’t think you had it in you.”
Let’s just say there are nicer ways to express surprise. Try literally anything else.
8. “Hope this makes up for last year’s disaster!”
Dragging up the past? In this economy? Let it go, Elsa.
9. “Your siblings did better.”
This isn’t a leaderboard. It’s a moment. Let them have it.
10. “Might frame this. It’s the only certificate you’ll get.”
It’s giving backhanded, bitter, and possibly cursed. Don’t.
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So what should you write?
Try something honest, specific and non-trauma-inducing:
- “You worked your arse off and it paid off. So proud.”
- “This result doesn’t define you, but we’re still celebrating like it does!”
- “Big brain energy. Drinks on you?”
We have a full guide on what to write in an exam congratulations card for the best ideas.
If in doubt, just say what you wish someone said to you.
Or head to Hey Chimp and let one of our cards do the talking... sass, heart, and no trauma included.
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