How can I ask to not be assigned a seat near a particular person during exams?
Yes, I think you can ask. You don't need to give a reason if things are handled justly. &quot;Personal reasons&quot; should be enough. If the person has harassed you in the past or is known to you to cheat you have adequate reason.
And, it might be important to do so if you think that it would affect your performance.
You will need to decide whether to give a reason if asked. But be honest without revealing more than necessary. You might not achieve your objective, of course. Be ready for that.