Important Questions To Ask On Your College Visits

If you have the chance to visit your top college choices’ campuses before you apply, do it. The opportunity to visit before making a final decision should be taken advantage of. College visits allow you to stroll around and picture yourself at each school. Having done this makes applying feel much less daunting and more rewarding.

You can get a better feel for the environment when you see a college through your own eyes — as opposed to a carefully curated video or online pictures. Plus, you get a chance to ask the zillion questions probably bubbling in your brain.

To make the most of your visits, you have to ask the right questions. Not sure where to start? Check out our handy list!

Academics

Your academic experience is the center of your college years. Understanding each school's academic strengths will allow you to choose one that aligns with your goals and needs as a student.

1. What majors, programs, and departments does the college have?
2. How flexible are the degree programs? Since it is common for students to second-guess their major upon entering college.
3. How available are professors outside of class?
4. What is the faculty-to-student ratio?
5. Are most classes lecture or discussion-based?
6. Do professors hold office hours for students?
7. Are there on-campus tutoring programs available?
8. Can students double major?
9. Are there general courses required for freshmen?

Admissions

Don’t shy away from asking admissions questions at your campus tours. This will give you a better insight into what the school is looking for in applicants and how to make your application stand out.

1. What are the most important admission requirements?
2. Are there early action (EA) or early decision (ED) options?
3. What is the best advice for applicants?

Campus/Student Life

Asking these questions will give you the scoop on what your everyday life would look like at each college. You won't be able to find out these things just by walking through a campus so its important to ask!

1. What are the different options for on-campus and off-campus living?
2. What percent of students live on vs. off campus?
3. What do weekends at the school typically look like? Do most students stay on campus for the weekends?
4. What support services are available for students? Do students have access to career, mental health, and academic support?
5. What clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities are popular on campus?
6. What study abroad programs are offered?
7. What are the best study spots on campus?
8. How do most people get around campus?
9. What is the school spirit like?

Career Preparation

Gaining valuable experience during your time in college will make you feel much more prepared to go into your future career when it comes time. Seeing what experience opportunities the school provides is super important for students with any focus.

1. Who helps students find internships or research opportunities and what does the process look like?
2. What career services are available?
3. Does the school have alumni networks or mentorship programs?
4. Can undergraduates participate in research opportunities?

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Excited about college but stressed about its cost? You are not alone. Getting a hold of this information early can save a whole lot of pressure down the road.

1. What types of financial aid are available, and what percentage of students receive aid?
2. Does the college offer scholarships and if so, how can I learn about them?
3. What is the average student debt upon graduation?
4. What kind of on-campus jobs can students get?

Safety

Feeling safe in your potential new home will allow you to feel comfortable and settle in so much faster. The safety measures a school has in place are key knowledge to have.

1. Tell me a little about the local community. How are the interactions between the locals and the college?
2. What safety measures have the college implemented to protect students?
3. What is the security in dorms and on-campus buildings like?

Campus Facilities and Resources

The quality of on-campus facilities make or break your college experience. You will likely be able to see the facilities during your tour but asking these questions also will make sure you have an understanding of how they work and how current students use them.

1. Describe the library and other academic facilities
2. Describe the facilities like the gym or sports fields. Can students use them?
3. What technology should incoming students bring with them?
4. Do on-campus dorms include laundry facilities?
5. What are the dining options on and off campus?
6. How does the school manage different dietary restrictions?

Post-Graduation Life

You want to choose a school that will set you up for success not only during your educational years. Having confidence that your school will have your back in finding your perfect job post-graduation should be a key aspect of your college decision.

1. What percentage of students continue into graduate programs?
2. How robust is the college's alumni network?
3. Does the college provide support for career advancement?

If you’re scheduling college visits, make the most of your time on campus! Talk to as many people as possible, take notes, and explore every part of the campus.

The answers to these questions will better allow you to picture yourself as a part of the campus community. With the right preparation, you'll have all the right tools to choose a college that is your perfect fit. Happy visiting!