10 Questions to Ask on College Tours

College visits on campus or online help students understand their future school life and see if the school matches their needs. When visiting college campuses, make sure to plan ahead of time. Instead of seeking instant impressions, you should study and learn about each school’s unique features. This blog shows you how to get the best experience at college tours by asking good questions and having the correct information.

Preparing for Your Visit

Whether you’re visiting in person or virtually, some preparation is key. For in-person visits, consider practical matters like the weather and dress comfortably, as campus tours often involve a fair amount of walking outdoors.

First, spend enough time on each campus visit to observe correctly. When you move too fast, you may miss important details about the college setting. Devote your time to remaining in the present moment. Begin your university research by looking online. Checking the college website and social media pages gives you helpful information to ask better questions during your visit.

The Power of Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. College admissions and enrollment professionals emphasize that there are no bad questions. Whether this is your first time navigating the college application process or you’re a seasoned veteran with another child going through it, every question is valid. Colleges want to engage with prospective students and provide them with the information they need to make informed decisions. To help you make the most of your visits, here are some examples of questions you might consider asking, categorized for clarity:

Questions about Admissions

Demonstrated Interest

Does the college consider demonstrated interest as part of the admissions process? This refers to showing interest in the school through visits to campus, online events, or communication with admissions officers.

Class Visits

Can future students spend time in actual classes to see daily learning? Learning about how teaching works at a university helps students see what education will be like there.

Questions about Academics

Study Spaces

Where do students normally study on campus? Do you have libraries, study lounges, or designated spaces?

Academic Advising

How does the academic advising system work? What steps help students select their classes and prepare for their education journey?

Academic Strengths

Are there any specific programs or departments that are particularly well-regarded?What are the academic strengths of the college?

Study Abroad Programs

What opportunities are there for study abroad and exchange programs? Are these programs run directly by the college or through third-party organizations? Are there additional fees associated with these programs?

Questions about Financial Aid

What is the average financial aid package awarded to students?
What is the average net cost of attendance after financial aid is applied?
What is the current level of funding for endowed scholarships?
Does the college offer merit-based scholarships?
If so, what are the criteria for receiving them?

Questions about Campus Housing and Community

What are the different housing options available to students?
What are the fee structures for these different housing options?
Are students required to live on campus?
How does the college define diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging?
What initiatives are in place to support these values?

Questions for Your Tour Guide

What surprised you about this college?
What was something you didn’t expect?
What keeps you coming back to this college each year?
Have we seen your favourite place on campus?
What event on campus has the biggest turnout every year?
If you were struggling with an issue, who would you turn to for help?

Questions about Work and Research Opportunities

What opportunities are there for undergraduate research on campus?
How do these research opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience that enhances students resumes?
What are some specific ways the college helps students gain hands-on experience through internships?

Questions about Student and Career Outcomes

What is the retention rate from freshman to sophomore year?
What is the five-year graduation rate?
What is the job attainment rate of graduates within six months of graduating?
What percentage of students go on to graduate school?
What percentage of students intentionally take time off after graduation compared to those who cannot find jobs?

Through well-thought-out questions and college community interactions, you can find essential details to help you decide on your next steps. Make your college visits more than a visual tour because they show you what life will be like academically and socially.