well in canada there is a difference between college and university, so in college it is much more hands on and i beleive there are alot more assignments and tests that give you a few chances in increase your mark, however at bigger universities, it depends on the courses you choose but generally there are 1 or 2 midterms and your final exam. that gives you about 3 chances to get a good mark in the class, since one test will be worth 30% of your grade the other worth 30% and your final worth like 40% . some have quizes, some have small assignments, some give participation and attendance marks so it depends. The major difference though is that there is noone pushing you to do it. your mark is up to the work you put in, and your profs dont care if you pass or fail. so of course they suggust homework and readings but noones forcing you to do it. Yet you should if youd like to pass:)  no matter if your in college or university, you should prepare for your marks to drop and that is completely normal. i got 90s in highschool and nnow im just hoping to pass my courses with a 60 and thats all that matters so dont stress! its really not that bad people say they actually like it better:)