Making the Most of Your College Visits: A Guide for Students and Families eps in the college search process.
Visiting colleges is one of the most valuable steps in the college search process. Not only does it help students decide where to apply, but it also demonstrates interest—something that some colleges consider in the admissions process. Whether you're a student beginning your visits in 10th grade or a family planning summer campus tours, this guide will help you get the most out of every visit.
1. Plan Ahead
When to Go: Plan visits during school holidays—Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Winter Break, Presidents Week, Spring Break, Memorial Day, or over the summer. A helpful tip: visit southern schools in winter and northern schools in summer.
How to Register: Go to the college’s admissions website, find the “Visit” page, and register for info sessions and tours. Some schools limit attendance, so register early.
Dress Smart: Dress neatly and wear comfortable shoes. Branded clothing from your high school or sport can help you stand out in a good way.
Reach Out: If you have friends at the college, reach out beforehand to meet up for coffee or a quick chat.
2. Do Your Homework
Bring a College Visit Worksheet or start a Google Doc to track:
College name, location, and website
Visit date, tour info, and session notes
Reasons the school might be a good fit
As your search continues, add:
Your regional admissions rep’s name
Research opportunities, unique programs, or internships
Supplemental essay prompts
3. Maximize Your Admissions Office Visit
Sign in if requested, and pick up brochures, academic journals, and student newspapers.
Photo Tip: Snap a photo at the college sign and take pictures of buildings. Email them to yourself and store everything with your notes in a Google folder.
4. Info Sessions: Ask the Right Questions
Focus on questions that show your curiosity:
Is admission to specific majors capped?
What GPA is needed for competitive programs?
What does the career center offer?
Is housing guaranteed, and for how many years?
When are students assigned academic advisors?
Avoid These Questions:
Anything easily found online (like student-faculty ratios)
Club availability—you can start one
Highly personal questions (ask privately or email later)
Always be respectful to your parents; admissions officers do notice.
5. Get the Most from Campus Tours
Take both general and specialized tours (e.g., STEM or research labs). Try to visit:
Maker spaces, labs, and studios
Dorms and residence halls
Rec centers, dining halls, and student lounges
Ask Student Guides:
Favorite and least favorite thing about the college?
Academic workload and competitiveness?
Favorite class, professor, or spot on campus?
Social life, traditions, and weekend activities?
Advising and research support?
Walk beyond the official tour route and talk to random students for unfiltered opinions.
6. Explore Key Campus Spaces
Visit:
Your intended academic department
Student union or cultural centers
Career center and freshmen dorms
Nearby transit stations
The campus bookstore (grab a paper!)
7. Try the Food
Eat in the student cafeteria—many schools offer a free meal voucher for visiting students. Talk to students at your table about campus life, academics, and their weekend plans.
8. Sit in on a Class
If possible, attend a class related to your interests. Email professors in advance or check if the college lists visiting classes online. Afterward, thank the professor and jot down what you observed.
9. Athletic Recruiting
Interested in playing sports in college? Contact coaches in 10th or 11th grade—not 12th. Schedule meetings or overnights with team members.
10. Don’t Skip the Interview
If the school offers interviews—whether with an admissions officer, alum, or student—sign up! Interviews reflect strong interest and could set you apart.
11. Understand the Surrounding Area
Walk through the neighborhood, ask students what they do off-campus, and learn which areas are popular or avoided.
Weather & Travel: Know what to expect from fall through spring. Find out about local airports, train stations, and how you’d travel home.
12. Take Notes for Your "Why Us?" Essay
Right after your visit, write a few sentences explaining why you'd apply. Include what stood out and what felt different. Also note anything you disliked—it can help you later.
13. Keep Costs in Check
Visits can be expensive. Group schools by location, plan well in advance, and ask hotels about prospective student discounts. Join hotel loyalty programs and explore Fly-in Programs that offer free visits and higher admit rates.
14. Attend Local College Events
Check each college’s admissions site for visits to your high school or area. Register so they know you’re engaged.
15. Tools to Help You Plan
Final Thoughts: Campus visits are more than just sightseeing—they help you decide where to apply, how to prepare, and what to write in your essays. With a little planning, each visit can be a meaningful step in your college journey.
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