15 Questions You Should Ask On A College Visit
UGH, another college tour? Don’t fret! Here are 15 essential questions you should ask on a college visit; you can ask your tour guide, as well as other university students, so that you can get the most out of your college tour! You should be able to get some valuable and different answers anywhere you go. Have fun!
General
1. Why did you choose this school?
Financial aid? Academic rigor? School spirit? There a billion things that motivate students to go to the same school.
2. Was this your first choice school?
It may not have been their first choice school, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love it there.
3. How long does it take you to get to class?
It amazes me how some of my friends who go to big schools have to take a bus for 20 minutes from one part of campus to another, just to get to class. What I love about going to a smaller school is that I can just roll out of bed and be in my seat within 10 minutes. (Which means more sleep and not waking up as early.)
4. If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be?
A nicer way of asking what they don’t like about their school.
5. Freshman retention rate?
The percentage of freshmen who stay for sophomore year says a lot about how they enjoyed their first year of college.
6. What percentage of students graduate within 4 years? 5 years?
College is expensive and while it’s a great experience, you probably don’t want to be paying tuition for more years than you need to.
7. How would you describe the community here?
I’d recommend asking a few students this question, as it will give you a general feel for the people who go to the school.
8. Expectations vs. realities of going to school here?
9. Are you happy here?
Student Life
10. What’s the party scene/Greek life like on campus?
11. What do students do on weekends?
Do a lot of students go home? Are they participating in on-campus clubs and activities? Studying? What students do in their free time and on weekends says a lot about the campus culture and the people who go there.
Jobs/Internships
12. How helpful is the Career Center?
13. How helpful is your advisor?
14. Research opportunities for undergrads?
And how many students take advantage of them?
15. Percentage of students who have a job within 1 year of graduation?
I’d say this one is pretty important.
Although it might be intimidating, don’t be afraid to go up to random students on campus and ask them any questions you might have about the school or their experiences. Remember, the students leading the tour are wonderful, but they’re also hired to represent the school, put on their best face, and persuade you to apply and attend. You’re there to get a genuine and honest feel for the school, so be brave and ask tons of questions to all the different people you encounter. Trust me, it’s better to have more information than not enough. Good luck!
