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Juniors, Now’s the Time to Schedule Your College Visits

Juniors, it’s time for you to get started on college visits.

Whether you’re thinking about knocking out one or two or hitting a series of colleges, here is your go-to guide for setting up a college visit. 

We’ll walk you through a steps to take before, during and after visits to help you find your perfect fit.

And if COVID-19 protocols are still underway, don’t miss our article about what to do when you can’t tour colleges in person .

What Can Juniors Do Right Now? 

Juniors can do a lot right now, including developing a checklist and other things you can put on the family calendar.

Step 1: Start talking.

That’s right. Sit down and have a conversation with your family.

What are you thinking you want to do for college? Do you think you want to go to a large school? A small school? What fits your personality and preferences?

Start talking with adults you trust about schools that make sense for your needs.

Step 2: Brainstorm.

Have no idea where to start? Start a brainstorming session where you write down your visions about what you think your college experience might be like.

Rather than throwing a dart at a map and jumping in the car, it’s a good idea to ask yourself a few questions: 

• Do you see yourself going to a large or small school?
• Do you want a lot of personalized attention? 
• Are you looking for a more selective institution? 
• How far away from home do you want to live?
• When you envision college, what do you think of?

In other words, think broadly about your college visit choices, then think more narrowly about the colleges you’d like to visit. 

Put a premium on relationships when you make this list.

What kind of people do you want to meet? What type of individuals do you want to learn from?

Remember, college is about way more than pretty residence halls, beautiful buildings and other aesthetic things. It’s about the people who influence you along the way.

Step 3: Research at least one college.

Choose at least one college and do as much research as you can. Learn more about that particular school’s:

• Admission criteria
• Results — how many students go to graduate school, get a job after graduation, etc.
• School profile 
• Academics and selectivity: Are you looking for a serious academic environment? Would you rather go to a school that focuses on undergraduate teaching — or research? 
• Potential majors
• Housing information
• Extracurricular activities
• Athletics opportunities

After you narrow down some of the “big” things, like distance from home and general experience, then you can start thinking about things like major, requirements and more.

Does this college college or university you’ve researched fit the bill? If not, look for another one. If that one makes sense, move toward school as your first visit.

Step 4: Check the calendar.

Once you’ve honed in on your first college to visit, figure out what visit day fits into your schedule. Check your calendar and your family members’ calendars too. Remember, mom and dad likely have to drive you to your visit or coordinate flights. You need to plan the visit with your parents, and you might need to make sure your brothers’ and sisters’ schedules are open too. 

How to Set Up a College Visits

First of all, make sure you (the student!) call the schools where you’re interested in setting up a visit.

Your mom or dad should not make the call. It’s time to put some of those adulting skills into practice.

Step 1: Think through what you want to do on your visit. 

Who are the must-see people on your radar—the soccer coach, tutoring center, a financial aid advisor? It’s OK if you’re not sure. You can work through some of these questions when you make your phone call to the admissions office.

Step 2: Call the college or university’s admissions office. 

Don’t set up a visit online. Talk to an actual person.

Or, if you do set up a visit online, call and make sure the admissions office received your scheduled visit—and that it didn’t get lost in cyberspace.

Have a detailed conversation about what you’d like to do when you’re on the visit.

Step 3: Ask for a personal campus visit. 

Try to steer clear of group visit days. 

Naturally, you’re an individual and have specific interests and needs.

When you’re stuck on a group visit, no one student will have the same interests as you. You could get stuck touring the gym for 25 minutes of your hour-long tour (even if you’re not an athlete or hate the thought of a treadmill). Who wants that?

A personal campus visit ensures your visit is all about you and nobody else.

Step 5: Get ready! 

You don’t want to start a college visit without doing some preparation. You want to know as much as possible about the college you’re visiting before you visit. 

Simple. You don’t want to waste time learning stuff you already know. If you already know the basics, like the size of the college, majors available and costs, why spend time relearning stuff you already know? 

Plus, it brings camaraderie with the admission staff or chemistry professors when you say, “Yeah! And that biochemistry secondary major—that sounds cool.”

You’ll never believe how much people’s eyes light up when you know something about the college or university already.

What to Do During/After Visits

When you arrive at the admissions office, go to the campus visit coordinator’s desk and introduce yourself. That individual will help you get your day started in the right direction. 

While you’re on your visit, do your best to ask great questions. You want to think of questions before you visit and ask everyone questions. Get each person talking about the college or university you’re visiting. It’s best to get candid thoughts from each individual you talk to.

This may sound like a pain, but it’s a good idea to get all your thoughts together and take a minute or two to jot down all your initial reactions to the college you’ve just visited. Grab your phone and type in some notes on the card or plane ride home.

Believe it or not, it’s difficult to remember each individual school after your 10th college visit.

Now’s the Time!

Juniors, we’ve offered everything you need to know about how to schedule a college visit .

It’s a matter of sitting down with your family members or other trusted adults, pouring over Niche’s 2021 college rankings and making lists of what matters to you.  

It’s going to be a great time, so have fun with the process. 

Ready to Find Your Niche? Create an Account

Author: Melissa Brock

Melissa Brock is the founder of College Money Tips and Money editor at Benzinga. She loves helping families navigate their finances and the college search process. Check out her essential timeline and checklist for the college search!

More Articles By Niche

While many current college students tout the importance of being able to actually step foot onto the campus you might go to, sometimes the circumstances just do not work out.

At Niche, we know a college is more than its stats or buildings. We also know it can be hard to figure out a college’s vibe or how students feel about it from its website alone. Using our comprehensive college profiles and social media accounts, you can get a sense of what life at a college is really like. Here are three simple ways to do that.

In case you haven’t heard yet, Niche has an amazing new opportunity for high school seniors. Niche Direct Admissions is a program that allows participating colleges to accept students and offer scholarships based on their Niche Profile. That’s right — no application needed.

Campus Visit Checklist

Find the right college for you, how to make the most of your trip.

Visiting a college campus helps you get a sense of what a college─and student life at that college─is like. This can help you decide whether the school is right for you .

When planning your campus visits, allow time to explore each college. While you're there, talk to as many people as possible. These can include college admissions staff , professors, and students. Below are some other things you can do while visiting. Note that some activities, such as meeting with an admissions officer or staying overnight in a residence hall, might need to be set up in advance.

Gather Information

Find out what you need to do to apply. See if the college's class and major offerings are what you want. Be sure to take the following steps:

• Take part in a group information session at the admissions office.
• Interview with an admission officer.
• Get information about financial aid options and deadlines .
• Sit in on a class that interests you. If classes aren’t in session, just see what the classrooms are like.
• Meet a professor who teaches a subject that interests you.
• Talk to students about what they think of their classes and professors.
• Get the names of the people you meet and their business cards so you can contact them later if you have questions.

Explore the Campus

Get a feel for student life and see if this college is a place where you will do well:

• Take a campus tour.
• Talk to current students about life on campus and the college.
• Check out the first-year residence halls. Stay overnight in a residence hall , if possible.
• Visit the dining hall, fitness center, library, career center, bookstore and other campus facilities.
• Talk to the coaches of sports that you may want to play.
• Walk or drive around the community surrounding the campus.

Check Out Campus Media

Tune in to learn what’s happening on campus and what’s on students’ minds:

• Listen to the college radio station.
• Read the student newspaper.
• Read other student publications, such as department newsletters, alternative newspapers and literary reviews.
• Scan bulletin boards to see what daily student life is like.
• Go to the career center and learn what services it offers.
• Browse the school’s website and any campus blogs.

Questions to Ask During Your Visit

Here are some questions you may want to ask your tour guide or students you meet on campus:

• What are the best reasons to go to this college?
• What’s it like to go from high school to college?
• What do you do in your free time? On the weekends?
• What do you love about this college?
• What do you wish you could change about this college?
• Why did you choose this college?
• What is it like to live here?

Adapted from  Campus Visits and College Interviews  by Zola Dincin Schneider.

What’s a campus visit?

A campus visit is a planned visit to a college or university campus. It involves a guided campus tour, information sessions, and meeting with admissions officers. Visitors can interact with current students, explore the campus community, and see if the college matches their interests and goals. The purpose is to provide firsthand experience and insight into the college's environment.

Why is it important to visit a campus?

Visiting a campus is important because it allows prospective students to get a feel for the college's atmosphere and culture. It enables you to explore the facilities, interact with current students, and envision yourself as part of the community. It also allows you to ask questions, gather information, and make an informed decision about your college choice.

How do I prepare for a campus visit?

Start by researching the college beforehand to familiarize yourself with its programs, activities, and campus layout. Create a checklist of areas you want to explore and questions you want to ask during the visit. Plan your visit by scheduling a campus tour and a meeting with an admissions representative.

What should I include in my college visit checklist?

Schedule a campus tour and attend an information session to learn about the college's programs and campus life. Arrange to sit in on a class and meet with an admissions representative to discuss your interests and ask questions. Engage with current students to gain insights into campus culture and explore campus facilities and the surrounding area. Take notes, gather information on financial aid, and follow up with a thank-you note or email after the visit.

How can I make the most of my college visit?

Plan well ahead if you want to make the most of your college visit. Research the college beforehand, including its programs, campus facilities, and student organizations. After the visit, review your college visit checklist and the notes you made. These will help you reflect on your experience and consider how well the college aligns with your goals and preferences.

Related Articles

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College admissions

Course: college admissions   >   unit 3.

• Visiting campus

Planning your college visit

Tips for planning your college visit.

• Take a campus tour
• Schedule an interview with an admissions officer
• Sit in on a class that interests you
• Have lunch in the dining hall (Most admissions officers can give you a voucher to enjoy a free lunch on campus)
• Talk to students and ask questions (i.e. how they're enjoying their classes or what campus life is like)
• Explore the area surrounding campus
• Read the college newspaper
• Scan the bulletin boards around campus for upcoming events and announcements
• Schedule an overnight and spend the night in the dorms with a current student
• Explore the town at night and have dinner at a local off-campus favorite amongst students
• Make sure to get the contact information of the people you meet with so you can reach out later if you have questions

Strategize the order in which you visit these schools

Always follow-up with a "thank you" letter, there's a final reason you should visit your top choice schools....

• Visiting campus and scheduling a tour
• Overnight stay

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Articles & Advice > Campus Visits > Articles

Campus Visits: Places to Go and Questions to Ask

Not sure what to ask on your next college tour? Here are ALL the questions you could possibly need, places you should visit, and other factors to consider!

by CollegeXpress

Last Updated: Aug 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Sep 18, 2015

Why are campus visits so important? For all the online research and virtual tours you can do, there really is no better way to get a sense of how you truly feel about a school until you step foot on its grounds. It’s an invaluable opportunity to get a sense of what your life will be like as a student there. You will have a gut reaction, and that’s something you just can’t get anywhere else. 

Below you’ll find a basic list of campus hotspots you should try to hit on any campus visit and questions you should ask. You might see these places on your formal tour, but if not, explore campus on your own if you can! Talk to students, professors, your tour guide, admission staff—anyone. You should also take advantage of meeting with an admission counselor for an interview. In addition, we've included the top factors to consider when researching and finally choosing your college, along with questions you can ask while you're visiting campuses.

Places to visit on your college tour

Campus quad.

• How friendly and welcoming is the campus?
• How easy is it to get around campus?
• How easy is it to get from campus to the nearest town or city?
• Where do students do their shopping (groceries, dorm essentials, clothing, etc.)?
• What is the campus crime rate like?
• Is there any sort of late-night shuttle service?
• How many dorms are there, and how do they differ?
• What's the dorms' security protocol like?
• What are the off-campus living options, and what do they typically cost?

Related: A Handy Guide to Surviving Dorm Life

• What’s the academic vibe like on campus?
• What are midterms and finals like?
• How many computer labs are available to students, and is there IT assistance?
• How many quiet spaces are there for studying?
• Does the school have access to any additional library collections (local or other school libraries)?

Student union

• What’s the social vibe like on campus?
• What’s the campus like on weekends?
• How involved are students in extracurriculars?
• Which activities are most popular?
• Are any art or music practice spaces available to non-majors?
• What’s Greek life like , and how do students feel about it?
• What do students do for fun on campus and off?
• How popular is the gym, and how late is it open?
• Do non-varsity players have access to all athletic facilities?
• How active is the student body in terms of sports?
• How engaged are student fans in campus sporting events?

Related: 5 College Search Tips for Student-Athletes

Dining hall

• How’s the food? (Pro tip: eat it!)
• Are meal plans required?
• What other dining options are there on and around campus?
• Do they cater to food allergies or other special dietary needs?

Academic center

• Do teaching assistants ever teach classes?
• How accessible are professors typically, and do they hold office hours ?
• What student-faculty research opportunities exist for undergraduates?
• What kinds of mentoring and advising relationships do students and faculty have?
• What tutoring services are available to students?
• How do class sizes compare between freshman/introductory courses and upper-level classes?

Wellness center

• What services does the health center offer?
• How do students typically pay for wellness center services and treatment?
• What kinds of counseling and/or mental health services are available on campus?
• Are any stress-relief initiatives offered during midterms and finals?

Career center

• Where have students interned?
• How long does it typically take recent grads to find a full-time job in their career field?
• Are there any formal internship arrangements with companies in the area?
• What kind of career advisement is offered?
• Do students have access to these services after they graduate?
• What networking or career fairs are held each year?
• How involved are alumni?
• What kinds of on-campus or local part-time jobs are available?

Related: 8 Reasons to Use the Career Center Before Senior Year

Important factors to consider when choosing a college

Sure, when it comes to  finding the right college , every high school student's needs and wants will be different. But these seven categories apply to just about anyone's search!

• Does the school have not just your ideal major but several good backups in case you change your mind?
• What is the reputation of the faculty and the faculty in your major(s) in particular?
• What are the academic facilities, libraries, and labs like?
• What kind of research opportunities—not just in the sciences—exist on campus?

Affordability

• What is the average financial aid package?
• Does financial aid include loans?
• What is the average student loan debt?
• Is the school need-blind or need-aware in admission?
• How many years does it typically take students to graduate?

Related: How to Get Financial Aid for College: The Ultimate Guide

• What is the social scene like on campus?
• How many students live on campus full time?
• How many stay on campus during the weekends?
• How many are on campus during summer break?
• What is the “town-gown” relationship like between the college and surrounding community?
• What are the area’s employment opportunities like for students as well as recent grads?
• What’s the average cost of living and general quality of life?
• What kinds of recreational opportunities are there?
• How safe is the area?

Selectivity

• What is the average admitted student’s academic profile like, and how does it compare to yours?
• Is it a  safety, reach, or realistic  option for you?
• Does the school take a holistic approach to admission decisions?

Related: You're an Ideal Applicant! Now It's Time to Show Colleges Why

• What campus services and resources are available to students, such as tutoring, career guidance, and mental health?
• How many students take advantage of these resources?
• How accessible are these resources? Where are they located on campus?
• Are any of those services available to you after you graduate?
• What kinds of extracurricular opportunities exist on campus?
• How many students participate in extracurriculars?
• How easy is it to start your own club?
• What kinds of experiential education opportunities, such as internships, co-ops, research, and volunteering, exist on and around campus?

And remember, you don’t have to ask all these questions in one visit. Just make an effort to determine the answers over time, whether during your campus visits or through further research. Good luck and have fun! 

Check out our Campus Visits section for more advice to take with you on your next tour, and find schools to visit using our College Search tool .

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Complete College Visit Checklist

By Jacky Gilchrist

June 23, 2023

Choosing where to go to college is a major decision. You’ll need to decide not only which school suits your career goals and other interests, but also where you’ll feel comfortable living for four years (or longer if you attend grad school there). College visits are essential for the decision-making process. Visiting the schools on your shortlist will help you determine which one is best for you.

Plus, attending an information session and interviewing with an admissions officer during your visits are excellent ways of demonstrating your interest to the school, which may benefit your admissions chances. Use the following college visit checklist to plan your trip and get the most out of it.

Things To Do Before A College Visit

1. do a little research on colleges of interest.

The first item on your college visit checklist is to research some schools of interest. If you haven’t already, you’ll need to put together a shortlist of about five to 10 schools that you think you might like to attend and that would support your career goals. Explore their websites, review any promotional materials they send you, and talk to your high school guidance counselor about your options.

2. Choose which colleges to visit

You might not visit every college on your shortlist, especially if that list is longer. First, talk to your parents about college visits. How many visits will they be able to accommodate? What are their geographic restrictions, if any? Do you need to limit your visits to schools within driving range or is a flight or two possible? Once you know what your parameters are, you can decide which campuses to prioritize.

3. Sign up for official tours

Now that you know which campuses you’re aiming to visit, the next item on your college visit checklist is to decide when you’ll be able to get to each. Depending on geography and your school schedule, it may make sense to cluster a couple of campus visits together into one long weekend. After planning the travel logistics with your parents, visit the school websites and sign up for official tours on those dates. It’s also a good idea to reach out to the admissions offices and ask about scheduling interviews on those dates.

4. Write a list of questions

Next, develop a list of questions to ask on your college tours and during your interviews. You might want to ask about academics and specific departments, extracurriculars, campus life, and admissions. For a list of good questions to ask, check out this blog.

5. Research the town

Your campus will be your home away from home for four years, so it’s important to make sure you’ll be happy there. However, you’ll definitely want to venture off campus, as well, so spend some time researching the town ahead of your visit. You’ll want to explore points of interest, do some touristy things, and check out the local restaurants. You’ll also want to know if there’s a supermarket close to campus, nearby healthcare (hospitals and pharmacies), convenient transportation (train station, subway, bus, airports, etc.), and, if you have a car, a mechanic close to campus.

What to Do During Your College Visit

6. dress in office casual attire.

If you have an interview on campus, you should wear or bring business casual clothing, such as a shirt and tie with slacks or a skirt and blouse. Otherwise, you can dress a little more informally. Khaki pants and a polo shirt or a sundress are both appropriate outfits. Try not to dress too casually and avoid showing too much skin.

7. Take the official tour

Although it’s also a good idea to wander around on your own, you should also plan on taking the official tour. Your tour guide will almost certainly be a current student. They will show you all of the major points of interest, such as a dormitory, academic building, library, student center, and dining halls.

Do note that the official tour will likely not include older or outdated parts of campus; the college wants to put their best foot forward, just as you do. It may also not include all of the parts of the campus that you want to see, such as the academic building for your intended major, sports facilities, and so on. You can explore those areas after the official tour.

8. Pay attention to where the students are

As long as you aren’t visiting the campus during the summer or another school break, there should be plenty of college students roaming around. Making a note of where the students are can tell you a lot about the campus culture. If the library is jam-packed, for example, it’s a safe bet that the school prioritizes academics. Similarly, seeing a lot of students relaxing in the sunshine on the quad could indicate that the school is relatively laid back.

9. Explore the campus beyond the tour

You’ll definitely want to check out as much of the campus as you have time for. This is not the best time to rush things; take your time strolling around and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t forget to take plenty of notes about your first impressions. In addition, take pictures of points of interest to refresh your memory later. You should also take pictures of yourself smiling in front of various buildings or other features (see the section on social media below).

10. Talk to lots of people, not just your tour guide

Your official tour guide will give you the company line, so to speak. While that can be helpful, it’s also a good idea to talk to other people around campus to get the less polished view of the school. Try to talk to students, sports team members, club members, and so on.

11. Explore your intended major

If you already know what you want to major in, you should definitely take the time to explore that particular academic building. The condition of the building itself, its available technology, and its size can give you a clue as to how much that major is valued at that school and what sort of resources/programs you might have available to you.

12. Check the school bulletin boards

You’ll likely find bulletin boards scattered around, particularly in the student center. Snap some pictures to look at later. The notices posted there can give you a clue about the social, political, or religious pulse of the campus community.

13. Check the classrooms

Colleges generally have a mix of large lecture halls and smaller classrooms, perhaps set up conference room-style. Does the school tend to have tons of lecture halls and few smaller classrooms that support greater interaction? That can tell you something about the academics there. Similarly, make a note of the technology available in the classrooms.

14. Check the dorms that aren’t on the tour

The tour guide will show you the newest, snazziest-looking dorm on campus. Ask if you can see one of the older ones to get a sense of where you might actually be living if you don’t land a spot in a newer dorm.

15. Be respectful to others

This goes without saying, but it’s definitely important to be on your best behavior while on your college visit. Treat others as you would want to be treated.

16. Keep a record of your visit

You’ll want to take plenty of notes and snap lots of pictures during each of your college visits. This will help jog your memory later as you spend some time reflecting on your first impressions of the schools.

17. Read a student newspaper

Student newspapers can give you a clue as to the pulse of the school community. Is there a vibrant arts scene? Are there regular activities and events? Do the other students seem engaged in campus life?

18. Try the food in the cafeteria

This item on your to-do list will be especially important if you have any food allergies or sensitivities. If so, make an effort to speak to a few of the cafeteria workers about the menu and whether there are plenty of choices available to you.

19. Visit the bookstore

The campus bookstore will be where you’ll purchase your textbooks along with any other classroom supplies you may need. Does it appear well-stocked? Are workers readily available to help students if they need it?

20. Look into clubs and organizations

On-campus clubs and other activities are the lifeblood of a school’s social scene. Does the school offer a bunch that look interesting to you? Can you attend a club activity while you’re there?

21. Ask about job opportunities for students

Higher education institutions customarily offer student employment opportunities. This may be available as part of a financial aid package. Although you won’t be applying just yet, it never hurts to find out what sort of opportunities could be available to you. Consider asking your tour guide which jobs are the most popular, and therefore, the hardest to get.

22. Find the library and ask about its resources

Although it might seem inconceivable, not everything is findable on Google. A robust campus library will be essential for your success in college. Take plenty of time to explore the library and don’t hesitate to chat with a librarian about its resources. Is there a media room? Does it offer archives and special collections? Are there small meeting rooms available for student study groups?

What to Do After Your College Visit

23. reflect on your visit and adjust your shortlist accordingly.

Your college visit checklist isn’t quite complete yet! There are also some steps you should take after your visit. Spend some time thinking about the experience. What did you like and dislike about the school? Do you have any concerns or follow-up questions? Consider whether you should rank the school higher on your shortlist or perhaps downgrade or eliminate it.

24. Send thank you notes

Even if you aren’t sure whether the school is the right one for you, it’s always a good idea to send thank you notes. Send a thank you email or written note to the admissions officers and other reps you may have met. This will help you make a good impression and it’s always nice to be polite.

25. Reach out with follow-up questions

If you do have any follow-up questions, you can include them in your thank you emails to the admissions officers. Even if you didn’t meet with an admissions officer during the visit, you can send a quick, polite email to the office with your questions. Mention that you recently visited the school and then type a brief list of questions.

26. Post college visit pics to your social media, if applicable

You might already know that hiring managers often check job applicants’ social media profiles before deciding whether to extend a job offer. But did you know that admissions officers might do this, as well? It may be beneficial for you to post happy pictures of you on campus and mention how much you enjoyed the experience. This demonstrates your interest in the school—admissions staff like to see applicants who engage with the school.

Why is it important to plan a campus visit?

It’s hard to know if you’ll like a car enough to buy it before you test drive it. College campus visits are similar. They serve as a test drive, allowing you to get a feel for the vibe of the campus and the rigor of the academics. Up to this point in your life, choosing a college will be one of the most significant decisions you’ll make. It’s important to be happy with your choice.

Are college tours worth it?

Our experts have worked with thousands of college-bound students over the years. Many of them have mentioned that campus visits played a major role in their decision. College tours are absolutely worth the time and expense because you’ll be able to make a decision more confidently.

What should you bring to a college visit?

You don’t need to pack as if you’re going on a week-long hiking excursion, but you should bring a few items to help you get the most out of the experience. You’ll want your phone (to take pictures), a notepad and a couple of pens (to take notes), and a prepared list of questions and places that you’d like to visit. If you’ll be doing an interview on campus, remember to dress appropriately. (And don’t forget to bring a copy of this college visit checklist so you get the most out of your campus trip.)

What month is best for college visits?

There’s no universal right or wrong answer. However, it’s often preferable to visit during a semester so that you can get a sense of what the campus is like when all of the students are there. Additionally, if you’re from a warm climate, visiting a cold climate school during the winter can be a good way to gauge whether you can handle the cold weather. However, if you’re unable to visit during a semester, take advantage of spring break or summer vacation to plan your college visits. Be sure to check for available tours before making any plans.

What should you not ask on a college tour?

There really aren’t any dumb questions. However, you should research the school thoroughly online first. Try to avoid asking questions that can be easily answered with a little online research. In addition, it’s best not to ask your tour guide personal questions or to request special favors.

What can I expect on a college visit?

College visits generally include structured and unstructured components. You’ll almost always have an information session and a campus tour, and perhaps an interview. At some colleges, you may also be able to arrange to attend a class, club meeting, or sports practice, or meet with a professor. You’ll also have some unscheduled time, during which you can explore the campus on your own and check out the surrounding community.

Need help preparing for college?

At KD College Prep, our mission is to help students get into the colleges of their dreams through test prep programs (including online learning options) and college counseling services. Schedule a free consultation to get started. We can’t wait to learn more about your goals!

Jacky Gilchrist is a blog writer for KD College Prep.

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“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that foundation. Without KD, I don't think I would have the motivation to consistently study for the SAT (test). In the beginning, every time I saw a KD email, I'd remember to sign up for a workshop and practice test for the weekend. Then, it became a habit to go to KD on Saturday mornings. Going to these workshops and taking practice tests consistently helped me get exposed to every question on the SAT (test) for math. Therefore, I was hardly ever surprised to... Read more...

“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that... Read more...

Meenakshi S. – Class of 2024

“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right choice for us... We appreciate your patience with her. She could not have gotten here without your help.”

“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right... Read more...

Arun K. – Daughter, Class of 2023

“KD College Prep has offered me multiple resources, makes the effort to craft comprehensive courses, and personalizes instruction that is adjustable to my schedule.”

Quynh T. – Class of 2023

“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score (1560), thanks in part to his preparation with KD College Prep.”

“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score... Read more...

C.J. S. – Son, Class of 2023

“This was perfect for our son! He needed the structure to get organized to study and did better than expected!”

Hillary B. – Son, Class of 2023

“KD has been very useful for me and has helped me become a better test taker. I don’t think I could’ve gotten the score I got without the countless hours I put in attending workshops, taking tests, and attending reviews.”

Samarth S. – Class of 2023

“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to learn more or maximize their scores!”

“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to... Read more...

Preston King – Class of 2023

“Overall, it was a good experience. It instilled the discipline to focus on test preparation through workshops and assignments. The review of each test was also very helpful.”

Sajitha N. – Daughter, Class of 2023

“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT® test. I only had to do it once because I got to relearn those pesky algebra skills that I forgot through the program.”

“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT®... Read more...

Katya G. – Class of 2023

“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions advice!”

“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions... Read more...

Ananya A. – Class of 2023

“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt like it made the biggest difference in his scores in the least amount of time. He found the program easy to follow and adapt to his strengths and weaknesses. As parents, we cannot say enough good things about the KD program and would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their scores and earn scholarship dollars!”

“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt... Read more...

Ellyn A. – Parent of 5 KD Students

“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped her know how to manage her time while taking the test as that is a huge aspect to the test.”

“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped... Read more...

Julie M. – Daughter, Class of 2022

“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what I really appreciated. There was a time that writing essays just clicked, and it was much easier after that.”

“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what... Read more...

Neha C. – Class of 2022

“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All three were accepted to colleges with single digit admission rates. Our eldest was selected as a National Merit® Finalist and was able to apply to colleges with a perfect SAT® score. Our other two were both named National African American Recognition Scholars and National Merit Commended Scholar. One of them applied to college in 2020 with an SAT score of 1520 (780 math and 740 verbal) and the youngest scored 1500 on the October 2021 SAT test (720 verbal and 780 math). Our... Read more...

“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All... Read more...

Nike A. – Parent of 3 KD Students

“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what you need and more to reach whatever score range you set as your goal (I was able to get a 1540). My favorite part though, specifically with the Coppell campus, was the people! Everyone was so incredibly nice and always in impossibly good moods. It was a great environment to learn and improve in!”

“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what... Read more...

Alex N. – Class of 2023

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA but struggled on standardized tests. Taking the test prep classes throughout junior year and taking practice tests got me more prepared each time I took the test. I achieved my best score the summer going into my senior year. That score allowed me to apply to my top schools as soon as early decision opened. I am so grateful to Karen Dillard and the extra practice and proctored exams! My parents are grateful too—for the small investment they got a great return.”

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA... Read more...

Saadia P. – Class of 2022

“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really helpful. I also really appreciated all the varied practice and detailed breakdowns from instructors, helping me see not just what answer was correct but why those answers were correct.”

“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really... Read more...

Pranathi P. – Class of 2022

“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in depth. Another great part of the KD experience was the wonderful staff giving me so many useful tips and strategies for the areas that I was specifically struggling with. The staff understands students have different strengths and weaknesses, and the fact that they tailor the info they give to each student is very useful. Overall, KD has helped me not only with SAT preparation but also with my normal school work.”

“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in... Read more...

Armaan C. – Class of 2023

“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and I was able to get a really good score the first time I took it! Once again, thank you KD, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to earn a high SAT score.”

“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and... Read more...

Sri Vamsi Krishna Putti – Class of 2023, Frisco ISD

“My husband and I are so impressed with your course and the quality of guidance that you provide. It feels like you really want our son to succeed. Thank you!”

Debra H. – Son, Class of 2023

“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test at the beginning of 11th grade! I would recommend KD to anyone who wants a highly competitive SAT score. ”

“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test... Read more...

Praneel S. – Class of 2023

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped me with the various steps required for college admissions. At KD I enjoyed learning from amazing teachers, who cared for each of their students individually and were ready to help wherever it was needed. Being a student at KD has also helped me figure out which learning techniques work best for me. The opportunity to engage in different learning methods such as small group interactive learning, larger group discussions, or individual practice are all ways that helped me come up with a learning... Read more...

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped... Read more...

Tanisha P. – Class of 2020

“ My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into helping me write the best essay possible, especially reviewing my essays twice to polish them completely. In addition, I have noticed that writing my resume has released a lot of stress off my shoulder when it comes to making sure I have all the things necessary to apply to schools. ”

“ My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into... Read more...

Claudia A. – Class of 2020

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of learning easier. I think that after you started going to a good amount of classes and the workshops, you knew every teacher, and they were always available to answer any questions that you had...Everyone was just so welcoming and made learning more engaging for the students, especially with the workshops. All of had their own unique style of teaching which never made a class boring.”

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of... Read more...

Rishab P. – Class of 2021

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or above... So many people told me it would be impossible to reach my desired score. After months of using KD's methods my scores definitely improved but hovered around 1350—still not near the score I needed but closer. After finally working with both of you during one on ones, my scores started to see heavy improvement and while I didn't get a score of 1520 or above as a single score, I got it as a  superscore ... Read more...

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or... Read more...

David P. – Class of 2022

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in awe at the consistent level of professionalism yet genuine concern for each and every person that walks through their doors. Thank you KD staff for being great mentors for our children!”

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in... Read more...

Gloria D. – Daughter, Class of 2021

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT ® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I have finished college applications, and I would love to thank all the teachers and aides at KD for giving me the score that I got on the test. Without the extra practice, I wouldn't have been able to get through to the score I got. These past 3 years went by so fast, and it is so fun to look back at where I started and how much I have come out with flying colors. Thank you so much!”

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT ® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I... Read more...

Kareena A. – Class of 2021

“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT ® , and ACT ® tests. The resources were very helpful, and the individualized assistance I received from teachers were what really supported my learning. Special thanks to Ms. Barwick and Mr. Hoffman!”

“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT ® , and ACT ® tests. The resources were... Read more...

Advika R. – Class of 2022

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in class. In conjunction, those two things helped me raise my score a lot because I was not a math kid before KD or high school. The repetition and being able to practice in a non-stressful environment and simulating that testing experience is something that was very beneficial for me... “The college counseling team was super patient and honest about the work I was submitting. I know for a lot of kids, it’s hard to articulate who you are through 250-300 words. It was definitely... Read more...

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in... Read more...

Blaine W. – Class of 2021

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a rising junior at the University of Miami, and my youngest son is an incoming freshman at Vanderbilt University. Steve’s help in navigating the complicated college landscape and finding the BEST FIT for my two sons is what has made this resource invaluable. “What made the biggest difference for my two sons was the depth and breadth of knowledge Steve has of the many universities and colleges in the U.S. First, by getting to know my kids on a one-on-one basis, he was able to... Read more...

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a... Read more...

Julio M. – Parent

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the summer. She liked being challenged academically, and she loved taking classes with high school students who were focused on their college goals. These students were also excellent role models! The lessons were especially important during the pandemic when it wasn’t a typical middle school experience.”

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the... Read more...

Beth L. – Advanced Start™ Parent

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT ® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got a 1530 on the December 5th SAT test. KD played a huge role in this, and I just wanted to say thanks to everyone there for helping me achieve this.”

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT ® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got... Read more...

Vyom S. – Class of 2022

"Our twin 16-year-old boys used KD College Prep to study/practice for the PSAT test, and we believe the classes and coaching were invaluable. Very professional and concise. Worth every penny!"

Jerry – Sons, Class of 2022

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT, SAT ® , and ACT ® tests (1520, 1580, and 34). I really appreciate everyone's willingness to be flexible and accommodate my requests!”

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT,... Read more...

Mithra A. – Class of 2022

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT ® test (third time) and a 35 on my ACT® test (first time). I remember the first ever practice test I took for the SAT test was a 1230 (about 1.5 yrs ago) and the first ever practice test I took for the ACT test was a 31 or 32 (about 6 months ago)."

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT ® test... Read more...

Elise P. – Class of 2022

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT ® and ACT ® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents very informative and helpful during the process as well.  My son (Jacob) graduated in 2018 and got a 32 on the ACT test. got accepted into Texas A&M but chose Baylor for Health Sciences.  My daughter (Morgan) graduated in 2020 and got a 1450 on the SAT test and a 32 on the ACT test. got into an Ivy League school (Cornell) for Engineering.  Both my kids say that they apply the test taking skills they learned at KD Prep to... Read more...

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT ® and ACT ® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents... Read more...

Jon D. – Parent

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard and other schools, but I've really started to immerse into the Emory culture, especially their debate team. Not having to pay for college and still attend a private institution is really a dream come true, and it wouldn't be possible if it were not for you.”

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard... Read more...

Shreyas R. – Class of 2020

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a good school will help me find my path. Also, Steve's knowledge about what colleges were wanting to see in potential admissions candidates was a huge help... “There was not one specific beneficial moment or turning point in my time working with Steve, there were many. He encouraged me during the entire application process and brought to my attention many colleges I wouldn't have considered or heard about without his help.”

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a... Read more...

Jake W. – Class of 2020

"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."

Zarni, Daughter – Class of 2021

"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT ® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit ® Finalist."

Claire I. – Class of 2020

"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT ® /ACT ® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."

Gopi C. – Class of 2021

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made sure that I would be successful in whichever college I picked, and I am eternally grateful for all their help and hard work!"

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made... Read more...

Omar S. – Class of 2020

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by far the most concerned about. I didn’t know how exactly I should go about choosing which places to apply to and if I were to be accepted, if they would fit me. The team did a wonderful job considering my likes and dislikes and helped me compile a list of colleges that suited my tastes and would further my academic career. "After this integral first step, my focus turned towards time management and writing quality essays that would stand out to colleges. I got... Read more...

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by... Read more...

Nina H. – Class of 2020

"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT ® and ACT ® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."

Morgan D. – Class of 2020

"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT ® /SAT ® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."

Tiffany – Son, Class of 2021

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students wanting an edge on their national test scores!"

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students... Read more...

Daniel J. – Class of 2020

"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."

Sam H. – Class of 2020

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the help from amazing teachers and staff. I am so grateful for KD!"

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the... Read more...

Matt K. – Class of 2020

"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit ® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT ® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."

Thomas D. – Class of 2019

"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."

Piper F. – Class of 2020

"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."

Kathy – Son attends Mizzou

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Suggested College Tour Itineraries

Here are some suggestions for schools to visit, grouped by region, to get you rolling. Each list includes 5-6 schools that offer a range of sizes, settings and selectivity to help imagine the possibilities.  We also suggest others worth considering and why.  

Cities currently covered include Boston, New York City, Syracuse, Washington DC, Chicago, Cleveland, San Francisco and Los Angeles.  

Click on the Continue Reading link below to see our suggestions, or try our College Tour Planner to build your own custom campus tour itinerary.

Suggested starting point

• Boston College
• Northeastern
• Boston University

These popular Boston area schools represent a good mix of size, setting and admissions selectivity.  All are easily accessed via public transportation, and given their relative proximity you can squeeze in two campus visits a day if necessary.  

For a taste of smaller schools in more rural locations, consider driving to western Massachusetts to visit Amherst , Williams , Hampshire College , Smith or UMass Amherst .  If you're interested in engineering, check out Olin , UMass Lowell and WPI , and if you're interested in entrepreneurship visit Babson .  

• Sarah Lawrence

Though we've contained the list to schools in NYC, it's easy to venture out into upstate NY, Connecticut, New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania if you're game.  If you're interested in visiting Ivy League schools, both Yale and Princeton are within relatively easy reach by car, bus or train. Cornell is four hours away, but if you head up that way you can also visit Colgate and Hamilton to give you a taste of small, medium and large schools in rural settings.  

• Syracuse University
• Ithaca College
• Hobart and William Smith

The schools on this list offer a great mix of size, setting and selectivity. If environmental science and forestry are your thing, check out SUNY ESF , and if you have time to venture to Rochester, check out the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology .

Washington DC

• American University
• George Washington
• Johns Hopkins
• University of Richmond
• University of Virginia

The schools on this list are medium to large schools in suburban and urban settings. Time permitting, consider also checking out William & Mary , Virginia Tech and Washington and Lee .  

• University of Chicago
• Northwestern
• University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign
• University of Wisconsin

These schools are all classic medium-large universities. For a smaller school experience, check out the Colleges that Change Lives in the area, such as Knox , Beloit , Wheaton , Wabash , Kalamazoo and Cornell College .  

• Case Western
• Carnegie Mellon
• University of Michigan

These schools provide a broad mix of sizes and settings. Kenyon and Oberlin exude a small school, small town feel, Ohio state and Michigan a classic Big Ten college town feel, and Case Western and Carnegie Mellon a more urban feel.

San Francisco

• UC Berkeley
• UC Santa Cruz
• University of San Francisco
• Santa Clara University

Most of the San Francisco Bay area schools tend to be larger in size, but offer great variety in terms of locale/setting. Three popular University of California campuses are within two hours: the more rural, bicycle-friendly Davis, the urban, progressive Berkeley, and the earthy-crunchy Santa Cruz.  

Los Angeles

• Claremont Colleges
• UC San Diego

These popular Southern California schools offer a good mix of size, setting and selectivity. You'll need a car to see them all, but in certain situations it's still very possible to squeeze in two campus visits a day.  The Claremont Colleges— Pomona , Claremont McKenna , Pitzer , Harvey Mudd and Scripps —are particularly interesting to visit because of their setup as a consortium with distinct campuses but shared classes.

If you're interested in STEM fields, be sure to check out Caltech and Harvey Mudd. If film or animation are your thing, check out Chapman University , Cal Arts and Loyola Marymount in addition to USC and UCLA.

• Tags: American , Amherst , Babson , Beloit , Boston College , Boston University , CalArts , Carnegie Mellon , Case Western , Chapman , Claremont McKenna , Colgate , Columbia , Cornell , Cornell College , Fordham , George Washington , Georgetown , Hamilton , Hampshire , Harvard , Harvey Mudd , Hobart and William Smith , Ithaca , Johns Hopkins , Kalamazoo , Kenyon , Knox , Loyola Marymount , Michigan , MIT , Northeastern , Northwestern , Notre Dame , NYU , Oberlin , Occidental , Ohio State , Olin , Pepperdine , Pitzer , Pomona , Princeton , Purdue , Rochester , Rochester Institute of Technology , Santa Clara , Sarah Lawrence , Scripps , Smith , Stanford , Syracuse , Tufts , UC Berkeley , UC Davis , UC San Diego , UC Santa Cruz , UCLA , UMass Amherst , UMass Lowell , University of Chicago , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , University of Richmond , University of San Francisco , University of Virginia , USC , Virginia Tech , Wabash , Washington and Lee , Wheaton - IL , William & Mary , Williams , Wisconsin , WPI , Yale , Yeshiva
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How to do college visits in 2021

Sometimes it takes a worldwide crisis to remind us how much we rely on and perhaps take for granted certain experiences and opportunities. The on-campus college visit has arguably been the key component of a college search - admission counselors and current college students always promising that “you’ll just know” when you step foot on campus. But, what happens when you cannot do this? Is it possible to choose the right college without ever seeing it in person?

To be fair, thousands of students do this every year. International students who may not be able to make a trip across the globe, and students without the financial means or the ability to take time away to go on college visit jaunts have always found the wherewithal, the confidence, and the creative alternative ways to explore colleges and find the right fit. But, now, in this new virtual reality in which we live, there are far better ways to do an effective college search without stepping foot on the physical campus. 

RWU is offering in-person visits. However, with limited capacity due to health and safety guidelines, changing inter-state travel policies, as well as families’ own ability and comfort level, these visits are not right and/or accessible for everyone.

The good news is that the virtual offerings are so robust these days that you’ll have access to more than you ever have before. Let’s explore these and offer some tips and guidance!

The three typical categories of virtual offerings:

Admission Information Sessions and Tours. Often times admission information sessions and campus tours will be offered as a packaged session. The admission information session will give you a high-level overview of the institution and the admission process, which is designed to lead into the campus tour that explores more detailed aspects of the student experience. If you are attending these separately keep in mind that they should complement each other and both are valuable. We're offering both in-person and virtual information session and tours . 

• These sessions are great as first visits. They will introduce you to the institution and give you high-level information.
• Admission information sessions are usually presented by an admission counselor who is familiar with both the college and the admission and aid processes.
• Virtual campus tours are being delivered both “live” or as a true virtual experience that you can explore on your own time and at your own pace. In live virtual tours a student clicks through a virtual campus tour platform while narrating each stop, sharing their experiences, and answering questions.

College admission advice sessions. Many institutions are hosting “how to” sessions for various aspects of the college search process. Topics include writing your college essay, filling out the Common Application, filling out the FAFSA, and more. These are designed to be more general and informational rather than specific to the institution. Therefore, they can be complementary to the other types of sessions. 

Topic-specific sessions. These sessions focus on specific majors, programs, or aspects of the college experience. These sessions may be presented by faculty, college staff, and/or current students. Best practice would be to attend or watch an admission information session and/or campus tour before attending these. The information here is designed to go deeper and will focus very specifically on the topic area. The presenters will likely assume that you have some level of knowledge of the institution in general before engaging here (even if that knowledge has been gathered through online research). It's never a bad idea to engage with more than one type of offering from each of the colleges you are considering. Hearing from more than one member of the community gives multiple viewpoints and perspectives. Colleges are doing their best to schedule these sessions at the most convenient times for you, and to keep them short and sweet. We know that you have a lot of screen time in your life as it is! When in doubt, never hesitate to reach out to the admission office directly for guidance in selecting the visit experience and sessions that are right for you.  

JLV College Counseling

College Visits

A college visit is a must when narrowing down your college list. Visiting a college campus is the only way to make sure a college feels right for you.

Many colleges offer free overnight stays in the residence halls and food in the dining hall at the campus. However, some colleges have gone even farther to help students with their visit to campus

• College Fly-In Programs – These programs are competitive visit programs. There are limited spaces available and students must apply to participate in the program.
• Colleges That Offer Travel Reimbursement – List of colleges that offer travel reimbursement for students who visit campus.
• Colleges That Offer Visit Scholarships – List of colleges that offer a visit scholarship or grant for students who visit campus. Students must enroll at the institution to receive the scholarship.

College visits are my favorite part of the college admissions process. As a former admissions officer, I spent a lot of time planning college visits and hosting prospective students on campus. Because of my extensive experience with college visits on college campuses, I have written a lot of articles on the college visit. Check out these articles for tips on making the most of the college visit.

• 18 Tips to Make the Most of Your College Visit
• 30 Questions to Ask Current Students
• 7 Benefits of Staying Overnight When Visiting Colleges
• How to Make College Visits Less Expensive
• College Visit: Open House or Individual Visit? 
• College Visit Tip: Go Off Course and Script
• 4 Tips for Summer College Visits

Don’t forget the surrounding community when visiting a college campus. When you become a college student at a campus, you will visit the community surrounding your campus on a regular basis! This is why it is important to check out the local area during your college visits. College Scoops have put together some great recommendations for local eateries and other points of interest near 120+ college campuses. If you’re visiting one of the colleges on their list, check out their recommendations.

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A Complete Guide to the College Application Process

Find answers to common questions prospective college students have about deadlines, essays and more.

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Students should generally begin working on applications the summer between their junior and senior year of high school, experts say.

The college application process can seem intimidating, especially if students don't have parents or siblings who have already been through it and can offer advice.

Since there are several steps, such as writing an essay and obtaining letters of recommendation , experts say a good way for students to get started is to create a to-do list during their junior year of high school.

"Once you can see it visually, the number of tasks and a schedule to do them, it simplifies a lot of things," says Christine Chu, a premier college admissions counselor at IvyWise, a New York-based education consulting company. "It will take away a lot of the anxiety."

Though there is often prep work, students generally begin working on college application tasks the summer between their junior and senior years of high school, experts say.

Here's what prospective undergraduates need to know about completing a college application.

What Are the Important College Application Deadlines?

High school seniors have multiple deadlines to choose from when applying to colleges.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to College

Applying to college.

• Complete the FAFSA
• Fill Out the Common App
• Write a Standout College Essay
• Ask for Recommendation Letters
• Learn the Ins and Outs of Financial Aid
• Decipher College Tuition Costs
• Find Scholarships to Pay for College

Early Decision

First are early decision deadlines, usually in November. Students who apply via early decision, or ED, hear back from a college sooner than their peers who turn in applications later. ED admissions decisions often come out by December.

However, students should be aware that ED acceptances are binding, meaning an applicant must enroll if offered admission.

Some schools also have a second early decision deadline, ED II, which is also binding. The difference is in the timelines. ED II deadlines are usually in January, and admissions decisions often come out in February.

Early Action

Early action is another type of application deadline that tends to be in November or December, though some schools set deadlines as early as Oct. 15. Similar to early decision, students who apply via early action hear back from schools sooner. The difference is EA acceptances aren't binding.

Restrictive early action , which is uncommon, allows students to apply early but only to a single school (though there are exceptions). It's also nonbinding.

Regular Decision

Students can also choose to apply by a school's regular decision deadline, which is typically Jan. 1. Students who apply regular decision generally hear back from schools in mid-to-late March or early April. This is the most common way students apply to schools.

One other admissions policy to be aware of is rolling admissions . Schools with rolling admissions evaluate applications as they receive them and release admissions decisions on an ongoing basis. These schools may have a priority filing date, but they generally don't have a hard cutoff date for applications. The institutions continue accepting them until all spots in the incoming class are filled.

Regardless of the type of decision students pursue, it's important to start the application process early, says Denard Jones, lead college counselor at Empowerly, a college admissions consulting company. Jones previously worked in college admissions at Elon University in North Carolina and Saint Joseph's University in Pennsylvania.

“If you chunk it up and break down these tasks and can get ahead and start early, you’re not stifling your creativity because you’re trying to rush through to get everything done by October or November deadlines," he says. “Time management is something you’re going to have to deal with the rest of your life, regardless of what you go into.”

In deciding when to apply, as well as how many colleges to apply to, students should consider financial aid implications . Experts say if money is a concern, as it is for most families of college-bound students, applicants should choose nonbinding deadlines – EA and regular decision. This will enable families to compare financial aid offers from multiple schools.

Experts also suggest students research applicable scholarships, like those related to their hobbies , to help offset costs.

For regular decision deadlines, students typically have until May 1 to decide which school they will attend and pay an enrollment deposit.

Which College Application Platform Should I Use?

Students have several options when it comes to college application platforms.

The Common Application

One popular choice is The Common Application , which is accepted by more than 1,000 colleges, including some outside the U.S. Students fill out the Common App once and can then submit it to multiple colleges.

However, in addition to the main application, Common App schools often have a supplemental section, Chu says. The supplement sometimes includes additional essay questions, so students may need to budget time for more writing.

Some schools do not accept the Common App, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Students have to fill out separate applications for these schools, generally through the school's website.

Coalition Application and Common Black College Application

Other application options include the Coalition Application, a newer platform accepted by 130 schools, and the Common Black College Application , accepted by most historically Black colleges and universities.

Additionally, some colleges have school-specific or university system-specific applications. For example, the University of California system has its own application – the only platform used by UC schools – and students can apply to multiple campuses with one application.

Students can visit a college's website to find out which application platforms are accepted. Also, the Common App , Coalition Application and CBCA websites list their partner schools.

What Do I Need to Know About the College Application Essay?

As part of the application process, most colleges require students to submit at least one writing sample: the college essay . This is sometimes referred to as a personal statement.

There's usually a word limit of around several hundred words for a personal statement. The main essay on the Common App should be around 650 words. The Coalition Application website says its essays should be between 500 and 650 words. Institution-specific supplemental essays typically have a word count of around 250 words.

Regardless of which application platform they use, students have multiple essay prompts from which to choose.

"The application essay prompts are broad and open-ended, and I think that's sometimes what challenges students the most," says Niki Barron, associate dean of admission at Hamilton College in New York. "But they're open-ended for a reason, and that's because we do really want to see what students choose to write about, what students feel is important."

Experts say students should try to tell a story about themselves in the essay, which doesn't necessarily mean writing about a big, impressive accomplishment.

Barron says the most memorable essays for her focus on more ordinary topics. "But they're done in such a self-reflective way that it gives me so much insight into who a student is as a person and gives me such a sense of the student's voice," she adds.

What Are the Other Key Components of a College Application?

Here are other parts of the college application that prospective students should be ready for.

Personal Information

In the first portion of a college application, students have to provide basic information about themselves, their school and their family.

High School Transcript

Colleges also ask for an official high school transcript, which is a record of the courses students have taken and the grades they have earned.

Admissions offices typically ask that a transcript be sent directly from the high school rather than from the student, says Geoff Heckman, school counselor and department chair at Platte County High School in Missouri. Students usually submit a transcript request to their high school's counseling office, but some schools use an online service, such as Parchment or SENDedu, that allows students to request the transcript be sent through a secure online provider, Heckman says.

Students can also send their transcript via a registrar if their school has one rather than through the counseling office.

Standardized Test Scores

Many schools require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores, which are usually sent by the testing companies. The number of schools requiring standardized test scores has dropped dramatically as the coronavirus pandemic upended these exams.

Prospective students should know, however, that testing policies vary even when such exams are not required. Key terms to pay attention to include test-blind and test-optional . Test-blind means that scores will not be considered if submitted. By contrast, test-optional colleges do not require ACT or SAT scores but will consider them if submitted as part of an application.

Chu notes that "admissions officers still want to see test scores if possible" and that high marks will only help. Strong scores can lead to scholarships, in some cases, experts say. A good ACT or SAT score varies by college, and Chu encourages students to look at a college's first-year student profile to determine admission goals.

SAT-takers are allowed four free score reports each time they register for the exam. Students can select which schools they'd like their scores sent to before or up to nine days after the test, according to the College Board, which administers the standardized test. The fee for each additional score report is $12.

Similarly, students who sit for the ACT can send their score to up to four colleges at no cost, according to the ACT website . Additional score reports are $18 each. However, some students may qualify for a fee waiver , which allows test-takers to send additional score reports for free to colleges and scholarship agencies at any time during the college search process, according to the ACT website.

Letters of Recommendation

Colleges often ask students to submit two to three letters of recommendation .

Students should seek out recommenders – often they have to be teachers or counselors – who know them well and can comment not just on their academic abilities but also their personal qualities and achievements, Chu says.

It's a good idea for students to provide recommenders with a copy of their resume to help them cover all these bases, Heckman says.

Students should request letters of recommendation well before the application deadline. Chu advises at least two months in advance.

"The more time students can give the authors of those recommendations, I think the more thorough and helpful those recommendations are going to be for us," Barron says.

Information on Extracurricular Activities

College applications give students the chance to provide information on the extracurricular activities they participated in while in high school. In this section, students should detail all of the ways they spend their time outside of class, Barron says. This includes structured activities like sports or clubs, as well as family obligations such as caring for siblings or part-time employment, she says.

Some admissions officers spend significant time evaluating this section, Jones says, but he adds this is often the most overlooked part of the application. Many students rush through it and don't thoroughly explain the extent to which they were involved in an activity. Be sure to explain any leadership roles or accomplishments, he says.

"The extracurriculars are the things that they spend their entire high school career doing that lead up to these wonderful moments and accolades over time," he says. "So take the time and be detailed."

Do I Need to Submit a Resume?

On some college applications, it may be optional for students to upload a resume .

But much of the information generally contained in a resume – such as awards, work experience and extracurricular activities – is asked for in other parts of a college application, often in the activities section.

How Much Do College Application Fees Cost?

There's no set price for college application fees, which experts say typically range from $50 to $90 per application, though costs can stretch upward of $100 in some instances. Prospective students should check college websites to determine these individual fees.

How Can I Get a College Application Fee Waiver?

There are several ways students from low-income families can submit college applications for free .

Students who received SAT or ACT test fee waivers are eligible for college application fee waivers from the testing companies. The College Board sends such waivers automatically to students. Not all schools accept these waivers, but many do.

Similarly, the ACT has a fee waiver request form students and school counselors can fill out and send to colleges. The National Association for College Admission Counseling also offers a fee waiver request form .

In addition, eligible students can request a fee waiver within the body of some college applications, including the Common App.

There are other times schools waive application fees , and not just for low-income students. Students can sometimes get an application fee waived by participating in instant decision day events at their high school or on a college's campus. Applicants should also keep an eye out for free application periods in some states, when some colleges waive fees to apply.

Using a College Visit to Decide Where to Apply

A common piece of advice offered by admissions consultants and college officials alike is to tour a campus. Visiting a college can help prospective students get a sense of the culture and community and understand how they may or may not fit in. While it's not part of the formal application process, exploring a college can help students determine which schools to apply to.

Such visits, Chu says, offer a "glimpse into a day in the life" of students living and learning on those campuses. But in the absence of the opportunity to visit – say, due to cost restrictions or other travel limitations – students should consider virtual tours , which emerged as a popular option for applicants after the coronavirus pandemic began.

While virtual tours may offer fewer opportunities to make personal connections, students should still attempt to forge them.

"Virtual visits can be the next best thing" to an in-person tour, Barron notes. She also encourages applicants to "check college websites for offerings and opportunities to connect virtually with current students, admission staff, professors, coaches and others."

Searching for a college? Get our complete rankings of Best Colleges.

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College Application Process

• How to Complete a College Application
• Use the Common App to Apply to College
• What Colleges Look for In An Application
• Avoid These College Application Mistakes
• Tips for Choosing a Major

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