College Campus Visit Questions
Essential questions to ask and tips for making the most of your college visits
Campus visits are crucial for making informed college decisions. Come prepared with the right questions to gather information beyond what's available online. These questions will help you understand the college culture, academic environment, and whether it's the right fit for you.
Understanding College Values
Core Values & Mission
Key Questions to Ask:
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"What are the college's core values?"
Understanding the institution's fundamental principles and priorities
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"How are those values demonstrated in daily campus life?"
Look for concrete examples of how values translate to action
Academic Insights
Class Sizes & Teaching Quality
Essential Questions:
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"How big are the largest classes?"
Understand typical class sizes in your major
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"What percent of first-year classes are taught by graduate assistants?"
Know who will actually be teaching your classes
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"Who teaches first-year courses?"
Distinguish between professors, adjuncts, and TAs
Why These Matter:
- ✓ Smaller classes = more personal attention
- ✓ Professor-taught courses often mean higher quality instruction
- ✓ Better opportunities for research and mentorship
- ✓ More accessible faculty for questions and support
Student Life & Campus Experience
Community & Activities
Transition Support
"What activities and services help students settle in?"
Engagement
"What activities are available for students?"
Social Life
"What is there to do on weekends?"
What to Look For:
- • Orientation programs
- • Student clubs and organizations
- • Intramural sports
- • Cultural events and entertainment
- • Recreation facilities
- • Study groups and tutoring
Financial Aid & Practical Considerations
Financial Matters
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"What is the total cost of attending?"
Include tuition, fees, room, board, books, and personal expenses
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"What financial aid options exist?"
Ask about grants, scholarships, work-study, and loan programs
Housing & Living
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"Where do most freshmen live?"
Understand housing requirements and options
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Ask about meal plans, housing costs, and campus safety
Future Success & Outcomes
Graduate Outcomes
Career Success
"How successful are graduates in finding jobs?"
Graduation Rates
"What percent of entering students graduate?"
Graduate School
"What percent of graduates are admitted to graduate school?"
Alternative Visit Options
Virtual Campus Tours
Can't visit in person? Virtual tours are an excellent alternative that allows you to explore campuses from home and get a feel for the environment.
Recommended Platforms
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youniversitytv.com
Video tours of college campuses
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ecampustours.com
Interactive campus tours and information
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College websites
Most colleges offer virtual tours on their official websites
Virtual Visit Benefits
- ✓ Cost-effective way to explore multiple campuses
- ✓ Available anytime, anywhere
- ✓ Can narrow down your list before in-person visits
- ✓ Often include additional information and interviews
Ready to Plan Your Campus Visits?
Armed with the right questions, you'll make the most of every campus visit and find the perfect college fit.