college visit recommendations

32 Questions to Ask on a College Visit

Students should feel free to ask questions during an information session or on tour.

Questions to Ask on a College Visit

Rear view of two university students walk down campus stairs at sunset

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Prospective students should conduct at least basic research to facilitate questions to ask during the information session or on tour, experts say.

Key Takeaways

Before a campus visit, students should do basic research on the school.
Students and their families have various opportunities to ask questions.
No question is dumb.

College visits, whether in person or virtual, can help give prospective students a better feel of campus life.

Contrary to popular belief, however, students don’t need to have that “a-ha” moment when they eventually find the campus where they belong, says Thyra Briggs, vice president for admission and financial aid at Harvey Mudd College in California.

“I just don't think that happens for most students,” she says. “I don't want students to walk away from a visit where that didn't happen thinking, ‘Oh, this is not the place for me.’ This is a long-term relationship. It's not necessarily love at first sight. … In this age of instant gratification, I think it's an important thing to give a school a chance to affect you in a different way.”

For an in-person visit, families should prepare ahead of time by checking the weather and dressing comfortably as tours are mostly held outside.

"Leave plenty of time at an individual campus and allow yourself to enjoy the experience, be present in the moment and (don't) feel rushed because that could also skew your perception of things," says Bryan Gross, vice president for enrollment management at Hartwick College in New York.

It’s also important, experts say, to conduct at least basic research on the institution – even if it’s just looking at their social media accounts – to help facilitate questions to ask during the information session or on tour.

"We know that for some of you, this may be the first time you are going through this," Briggs says. "For others, it's a different student (going through the process) than the student you had who's older. So there’s no bad questions. ... I would hope that any college would welcome any question a student would ask.”

Here are 32 example questions, collected from college admissions and enrollment professions, that students don't always think to ask on college visits. These questions – edited for length or clarity – were provided by Briggs, Gross and Brian Lindeman, assistant vice president of admissions and financial aid at Macalester College in Minnesota.

Questions About Admissions

Does this school consider demonstrated interest?
Is there an opportunity for prospective students to sit in on a class to experience a real lecture?
Are there options to receive a lunch or dinner pass at the dining hall to try the food?

Questions About Academics

Where do students typically study?
How does advising work?
What are the academic strengths of this school?
What opportunities are there for study abroad and exchange programs?
If available, are these global programs directly run by this school – where faculty members travel with students – or are these study abroad programs outsourced to a third-party company?
Are these study abroad experiences built into the tuition or are there additional fees to participate?

Questions About Financial Aid

What is this school's average financial aid package?
What is the average net cost when students enroll?
What is the current level of funding with endowed scholarships – how much are donors contributing to scholarships?
Do you offer merit aid ? If so, what are you looking for in a candidate?

Questions About Campus Housing and Community

What are the housing options?
What are the fee structures for these different options?
Are students required to live on campus ?
How does your campus define diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging?

Questions to Ask Your Tour Guide to Gauge Campus Life

What surprised you about this school? What's something you didn't expect?
What keeps you coming back to this school each year?
Have we seen your favorite place on campus?
What event on campus gets the biggest turnout every year?
If you were struggling with an issue, would you know who to turn to? Who would that be?

Questions About Work and Research Opportunities

What are the opportunities for undergraduate research on campus?
How do those research opportunities give students valuable hands-on experiences that enhance their resumes?
What are some specific ways this school helps students gain hands-on experience through internships ?

Questions About Student and Career Outcomes

What is the retention rate from freshman to sophomore year?
What is the five-year graduation rate?
What is the job-attainment rate of graduates within six months of graduating?
What percent of students are going on to graduate school ?
What percent of students are intentionally taking time off post-graduation compared to those who are not able to find jobs?
What size is the alumni network?
How are alumni actively engaging with recent graduates to help connect them specifically to opportunities in their fields?

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

Unique College Campus Visits

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Command Education Guide

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College Visit Recommendations

University of pennsylvania, what to see on campus:, what to eat:, what to see around town:, princeton university, columbia university , columbia university, yale university, harvard university, brown university, northwestern university, university of chicago, stanford university, dartmouth college, new york university, university of north carolina , cornell university, university of california berkeley .

Embarking on your college journey is more than just hitting the books—it’s about immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, flavors, and experiences that make each campus unique. Once you have crafted your balanced college list and decided which schools you intend to visit , it’s time for the fun to commence—creating your itinerary for your campus visits!

As you visit the colleges on your list, exploring both the college and its surrounding restaurants, sights, and culture is crucial. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the school and its local community will help you in determining where you’ll feel most at home. As you savor local flavors, explore campus landmarks, and discover the town’s hidden gems, you’re not just creating memories—you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the environment that will shape the next four years of your educational journey.

Every college’s culture offers a unique blend of academics, student life, and local flare. Created using the first-hand knowledge of our Senior Mentors, Command Education’s Guide to College Visit Recommendations compiles the most important things to see and do both on campus and off, helping you make informed decisions about where you’ll thrive academically and personally in college.

UC Berkeley

University of North Carolina

E Fisher Fine Arts Library

For students interested in Pol Sci/Pre-Law

Stop at Huntsman (students interested in Business/Wharton) and Van Pelt Library (main undergraduate library).

E Visit the Penn Museum
King’s Court English House
Lauder College House
Gregory & Stouffer

Note that Penn students are only permitted to live off campus during their junior and senior years, and most off-campus students live south of Market Street between 38th St. and 42nd St.

E White Dog Cafe
E Goldie at Franklin’s Table
E Kfar Bakery
E Surreal Creamery
E Federal Donuts
E Philadelphia Museum of Art
E Eastern State Penitentiary
E The Liberty Bell
E Princeton Neuroscience Institute
E Whig Hall

Outside the library is the East Pyne Courtyard, which served as a filming location for Oppenheimer.

Yeh College and New College West

E Small World Coffee shop

An entirely student run coffee shop

E Bent Spoon’s famous Banana Whip
E Maruichi Japanese Market
E Little Chef’s Pastry Shop
E Walk down Prospect Ave.
E Visit the small town on University Place/Witherspoon Ave.

The Starr East Asian Library Butler Library Avery Library

Where a majority of student-favorite restaurants are located.

E Columbia Law School
E Absolute Bagels
E LaSalle Dumplings
E Falafel on Broadway
E Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery
E Riverside Park

Political Science

Two newest dorms at Yale

Check out the staircase, famous for its walls covered in posters advertising events happening on campus. (It’s also reportedly where Hillary and Bill Clinton met!)

You can find Yale’s copy of the Gutenberg Bible on display in this library, which boasts stunning architecture and a world-renowned collection.

E Sterling Memorial Library

The gallery houses famous works such as The Night Cafe by Van Gogh. Admission is free.

Lined with historic mansions that now house many humanities classes. The undergraduate Admissions Office can also be found on this street.

E Old Campus
E Harkness Tower
E Grab a pizza from Sally’s, Pepe’s, or Modern

Serves farm-fresh, Connecticut made ice cream.

E Yale Piedmont Museum
E Lighthouse Point Park
E East Rock Park
E Visit the Law school

All the freshman dorms are those buildings around the yard.

Which is across the plaza (big white building that looks out of place from the rest of the architecture).

The big building next to the science center; it’s where freshmen have their meals.

Soph-Senior year you’ll be sorted into one of the 12 upperclassmen houses. The ones near H yard are Eliot House, Kirkland House, and Adams House.

It’ll be a huge part of undergrad life.

Every Harvard student knows this place. Best Mexican food you’ll find in the Square.

A popular place if you want a sit-down place serving good American food and cuts; lots of students ask their professors for meals here

Great Italian place lots of students will book to celebrate birthday dinners or special events.

Great vegetarian option! Located inside of the science center building.

Fast food burger place; quick to grab a meal before class or walking around the Square.

E Annenberg Hall
E Boston Museum of Fine Arts
E Boston Common
E Fenway Park
E Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
E Quincy Market
E JFK Library
E Walk the Main Green

This location offers a particularly stunning view of the campus at night!

The original women’s college on Brown’s campus.

E The Sciences Library
E Carrie Tower
E Manning Chapel
E Find great Italian food in Federal Hill
E Mike’s Calzones
E East Side Pockets
E Federal Hill neighborhood
E Walk down Thayer Street
E Waterplace Park
E Roger Williams Park Botanical Center

The student center

E Deering Library

Starting at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion, then walk back up Sheridan road

E Harper and Crerar libraries
E Hallowed Grounds coffee shop
E The Logan Center

The favorite “student spot” on campus.

E Harold's Chicken
E The many food trucks that frequent the Quad
E Millennium Park
E Rodin Sculpture Garden
E Memorial Church
E Hoover Tower
E Ethel’s Fancy
E A sporting event on campus

“Facebook Campus”

E Palo Alto Baylands preserve
E The Hewlett Packard Garage
E Cantor Arts Center
E Tower Room
E Rauner Special Collections LIbrary
E Periodicals Room
E Tuk Tuk Thai
E Lou’s Bakery
E King Arthur Flour (KAF)
E Dirt Cowboy Cafe
E Umpleby’s
E Go hiking on Gile Mountain Trail (easier) or Mount Cardigan (harder)
E Walk around Occom Pond
E Get your ping pong paddles to play some Dartmouth pong
E Ski/snowboard at the Dartmouth Skiway

Ice cream and mini golf

E Kimmel Hall
E Bobst Library
E Silver Center
E Washington Square Park
E Joe’s Pizza
E Málà Project East Village

Hop into one of its many galleries!

McNally Jackson The Strand Bluestockings

E See a show at one NYC’s many concert venues or on Broadway

The main campus green

E The Old Well
E The Arboretum
E Wilson Library
E The Gray Squirrel in Carrboro
E The Spotted Dog
E Carrburito’s

Student-run coffee shop on UNC’s campus.

E Walk Franklin Street
E Take a walk around Beebe Lake
E Tour the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art
E Sage Chapel
E Arts Quad
E Risley Dining Room
E Cornell Dairy Bar
E Ithaca Bakery - Meadow Street
E Moosewood
E Monk’s on the Commons
E Red’s Place
E Hot trucks in Collegetown
E Campanile
E Doe Library
E Lawrence Hall of Science
E University of California Botanical Garden
E Berkeley Art Museum

A Berkeley classic!

E Gordo Taqueria
E Cancun el Sabor
E Chez Panisse Cafe
E Watch the sunset at Indian Rock or the Lawrence Hall of Science
E Explore Grizzly Peak
E Visit Limantour or Stinson Beach in Marin
E Golden Gate Bridge
E Muir Woods

Both of these islands in the bay are accessible from Berkeley. Angel Island has wonderful hikes and views, while the iconic Alcatraz tour is a once in a lifetime experience.

If you want to extend your trip, consider spending a weekend in Napa or Sonoma county. Aside from the renowned wineries and natural beauty, there are wonderful little towns like Sea Ranch, Occidental, and Calistoga which offer a taste of the beauty of Northern California.

Consultations

Command Education’s experts take the guesswork out of the college admissions process.

Related Guides

Easiest Schools to Transfer Into Based on Admission Rates

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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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High School
College Search
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College Life

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!

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Articles & Advice > Campus Visits > Articles

Two dark haired women students walking down outside stairs with books and bags

10 Things You Should Definitely Do on Every College Visit

If you're putting in the effort to visit colleges before applying, make sure you're taking full advantage of it. Here are 10 things to do on campus tours.

by CampusCompare.com College Search Website

Last Updated: May 3, 2024

Originally Posted: Dec 31, 2011

Venturing on one college visit after another may seem like a drag now, but campus visits can make all the difference in helping you make the right college choice. So strap on your walking shoes, hit the road, and check these 10 critical campus hotspots off your college visit to-do list.

1. Talk to students

This may be the most important part of your campus visits and an opportunity that too many college-bound students do not take advantage of. If you visit colleges while school is in session, you should make a point to approach a few students—in the cafeteria, at the library, or just while walking around campus—and ask them any questions you have or even just about their general experience at the school. You’ll get much more honest answers than you will from tour guides, and most students will be more than happy to stop and chat for a few minutes.

Related: How to Overcome Anxiety and Talk to College Students on Campus Tours

2. Browse the bookstore

If you are the first child in your family to attend college, you should prepare to dissociate yourself from your parents upon entering the bookstore. As soon as mom or dad spies a price tag on a textbook, they may react with surprise, anger, disbelief, tears, or any combination of the above. After they’ve calmed down, reassure them that you already set up accounts on Amazon , Textbooks.com , and Half.com , and convince them that your prudence and frugality should earn you one of those nice college hoodies from the bookstore. Just don’t show them the receipt.

3. Visit the office of your academic department chair

If you have any inkling whatsoever about what your major in college might be, you should try to make an appointment to meet briefly with the department chair during your campus visit. The chairperson will be thrilled to meet a potential major, and you’ll get some valuable insight into the courses you’d take, professors you’d study under, and academic opportunities that your school and potential major will offer. Don’t hesitate to schedule several of these visits, especially if you’re unsure about your potential major.

4. Size up the gym and on-campus athletic facilities

Most colleges offer some sort of athletic facilities. In fact, sometimes those facilities are just as good as, if not better than, professional gyms! So if you’re interested in getting into or staying in shape, make sure your college has a state-of-the-art gym. And if you’re into college athletics , the school’s on-campus fields and other facilities are also something you should visit. Also remember that games on campus can be a pretty big draw, and even if you’re not a huge sports fan, they double as a popular social event.

Related: The Best Ways to Make Your College Campus Visits More Fun

5. Locate the health center

If you’re lucky, you won’t spend much time in the campus health center. However, should you get sick or injured and are in need of anything from emergency care to DayQuil, it’s always reassuring to know you have access to medical care and technology.

6. Stop by the admission office

While you’re on your campus visit, why not put a face to your application? Make an appointment to meet with an admission counselor so that they can get to know you as more than a list of test scores and activities. This is your chance to show your personality, and you can even use the time to ask any questions you might still have about the school. Just be sure that you’re friendly, polite, and articulate, because a first impression is a lasting one.

7. Survey the classrooms

If you think you can ace college exams without ever going to class, think again. Not only do you need to go to class once in a while to make sure you’re up to speed with what’s going on with tests and homework, but a lot of smaller classes also base some of their grades on participation. Granted, you can miss class once in a while, but don’t forget that attendance is often mandatory. Make sure you like the classroom settings of the colleges you’re visiting. Are the classes big or small? Are classrooms flat or stadium-style? Is the technology adequate, or better yet, very advanced? Will you be a nameless face or someone your teacher will be able to interact with?

Related: Smart Questions to Ask Before, During, and After College Visits

8. Eat at the dining hall

You generally won’t have the time or space to prepare yourself a nice lunch or dinner , so the dining hall will be the simplest and most efficient way to eat on campus. The average college student eats at the cafeteria twice a day; it’s possible you'll go less often, but it’s likely you'll go even more than that, whether for a snack or late-night meal. Check for cleanliness, the variety of quality foods, and accessibility (and, you know, taste!). If the campus is big, it may have multiple dining halls, so make sure you see them all.

9. Drop by the dorms

When you’re not in the classroom or grabbing a bite in the cafeteria, there is a pretty good chance you’ll be in your dorm room. While you’re visiting colleges, ask to see the freshman dorms and upperclassman dorms as well. Freshman dorms will almost always be the least impressive digs on campus, but those double and triple shared rooms are part of the freshman experience! That being said, you want to make sure you’ll be moving on up as you progress in class years. Upperclassmen often have access to suite or apartment-style housing.

10. Hang out on the quad

You can’t make friends holed up in your dorm room. That’s why colleges and universities offer quads and other comparable hangout spots. This could be as simple as a nice lawn to read on or an open area to play football or Frisbee. And rest assured, even urban schools have common campus hangouts! If such an area doesn’t exist—or if it does and there’s nobody there—this might be a college you want to rethink because making friends freshman year could be more difficult. You’ll be surprised how important little things like playing catch with your buddies in between classes will factor into your enjoyment of school.

Related: Ultimate Campus Visit Checklist: Where to Go and Questions to Ask

Campus visits are a great way to get to know a school better before making the big decision to apply—or the even bigger decision to attend. It gives you a feel for what life will really be like living on campus and if that's the kind of atmosphere for you to thrive in.

You can check out the original article at CampusCompare.com or find more advice for school tours in our Campus Visits section.

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College Visits: When (and If) to Make Them

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You’ve taken the SAT, begun to draft your personal statement, and started to draft a college list —carefully composed of a handful of safeties, targets, and reaches . Now what? Many students will assume that the next step is to visit every college on their list in order to decide where to apply. But for many students, this can seem overwhelming. In many cases, it also may not be the wisest choice.

Indeed, college visits can be time-consuming logistical nightmare if squeezed into weekends during the busy school year. Not to mention, if you are considering schools that are located throughout the country, travel can be uncomfortably costly. For these reasons, it is worthwhile to consider a more strategic schedule of college visits. Below, we’ll outline a more nuanced approach to the College Visit itinerary.

Top-Priority (or First Tier) Visits

You should consider scheduling your top-priority visits before their respective applications are due; perhaps, you’ll carve out the time to visit these campuses during the summer before your senior year or during the opening weeks of school in September. First and foremost, the campuses you visit should be schools to which you are considering applying during the EA/ED admissions cycle. In particular, if you are applying ED to a school—which, as we’ve discussed elsewhere on this blog is a binding decision should you be accepted—you will want to visit this school before applying.

You can further prune your college visit list by considering not only whether you’re planning to apply early, but also how knowledgeable or passionate you are about the schools in question. For example, if you are planning to apply EA to two schools, you should prioritize a visit to the one that you know less about or are more unsure of.

Additionally, you should consider visiting your first- and/or second-choice schools before applying to them, as adcoms increasingly care about accepting applicants who have demonstrated significant interest and passion about their specific school. Oftentimes, it is clear to an adcom when a student has made an effort to visit a school. For this reason, you will want to make clear to your first choice school that you are in fact committed.

But this is not always the case. Some schools—especially Harvard, Yale, and Stanford—already welcome thousands of tourists to their campuses as visitors each week. These schools, which are tourist destinations in their own right, are less worried about bringing you onto their campus as a preliminary step to applying. If you visit these or similar schools, it should be for your own edification rather than with the hopes of strengthening your candidacy.

If in fact the latter is your reason for visiting, it is all the more important that you make the most of your campus visit by going on a university-organized tour, attending any available programming provided by the admissions committee, and organize an interview or meeting with an admissions officer if possible.

In all of these cases, top-priority or first tier visits will help you decide whether or not to apply to a school. You can use these visits as an opportunity to prune your college list before you start filling out applications.

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Second Tier Visits

Your second tier visits, similar to the first tier ones, should be scheduled before their respective applications are due. However, these are different from first tier visits in that they will be to schools that you are applying to on the regular admissions cycle. Again, these visits should be reserved for cases in which you must decide whether or not to apply to a school. If you know for certain that you want to apply to a certain university, you may consider postponing your campus visit until you receive news of admission, rejection, or a spot on the waitlist .

Third Tier Visits

This brings us to a discussion of third tier visits, which will take place after you have submitted an application and received an admission decision from the university. The beauty of waiting until this point to plan campus visits is manifold. Firstly,, this timeline will save you the trouble of visiting a school from which you receive a rejection. On the bright side, postponing a visit to a safety may save you time, money, and trouble if you learn that you have been accepted to your first-choice reach.

At this point, it is important to reiterate the note we’ve made above in the first tier section: that you should prioritize visits to your first- and/or second-choice schools if you want to make it clear that you are committed to their communities and would be honored to attend if offered admission. While it is prudent to approach college visits economically, it can also help your application if you make a campus visit before applying because it demonstrates your genuine interest in attending the school.

Specifically, by taking the time to visit a school and truly get to know its campus before applying, you communicate your commitment to its community. You should consider a campus visit as a valuable investment in your application—you can be careful about where you invest, but you should also keep in mind that the right investments will yield benefits.

Lastly, we encourage all of our students to make their best effort to visit a school before committing to it on the universal college commitment day , May 1st. Obviously, we do not advise students to put themselves or their family through discomfort if this is a complete impossibility. On the other hand, many students will find it a worthy investment to visit the one or two schools to which they were accepted before they choose one.

In fact, many schools will invite the students who have been offered admission to an admitted students visiting weekend, designed for the express purpose of giving you a taste of life at their school. Some universities will even offer to completely cover the cost of travel to and from this special weekend in the special case that you are exceptionally accomplished and would like to partake in this visiting weekend but cannot afford it.

Whether you decide to visit every school on your college list over your junior summer or you choose to make more conservative plans regarding your college visits, make sure you take a peek at this article before you set foot on campus. It is designed to help you zero in on a university’s unique culture and vibe, which is ultimately the most important reason to visit a school’s campus rather than simply its website.

Curious about your chances of acceptance to your dream school? Our free chancing engine takes into account your GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, and other data to predict your odds of acceptance at over 500 colleges across the U.S. We’ll also let you know how you stack up against other applicants and how you can improve your profile. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to get started!

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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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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Best College Road Trip & On-Campus Itinerary Planning

Custom College Visits’ services are tailored to your family’s needs, whether you’re visiting colleges and universities close to home, across the country or overseas.

All itineraries are planned personally by Janice Caine, an experienced travel and meeting planner, and founder of Custom College Visits. Please feel free to schedule a time for a complimentary parent-to-parent conversation with someone who planned college tours for her own kids and who’s done this hundreds of times for other families.

Custom College Visits is now planning multi-day, multi-campus visits for summer and fall 2024.

For more information please see our FAQs and/or reach out to us .

On-Campus Arrangements

At Custom College Visits, we believe that immersive college visits are an important part of a successful college search. Our proven process ensures that your virtual and in-person visits will run smoothly.

Arrangements may include:

Appointments with faculty members or department advisors
Meet-ups with current students
Arrangements for class visits**
Appointments with athletic coaches, study abroad staff, academic resources advisors etc
Visits to facilities not included on group tours including theatre facilities, sports facilities and more*
Reservations for group information sessions and student-led tours
Scheduling of individual student interviews
Scheduling of overnight stays on campus (for students only)**

*Arrangements are subject to your travel/visit dates and availability at each college or university

**arrangements available for in-person visits only, travel & lodging arrangements.

Together with our travel partner, Alacrity Travel & Lifestyle™, Custom College Visits can provide multiple travel options based on customized research, and recommendations and arrangements that fit your travel style and specific requests. Travel arrangements may include:

Airline reservations
Hotel arrangements
Airport and hotel transfers
Train tickets/reservations
Sightseeing, dining and entertainment recommendations and arrangements **

** Please note that Custom College Visits’ planning fees do not include costs for: transportation, lodging, food, fees, taxes, and incidentals.

Itinerary planning.

Your itinerary will be customized to meet your specific interests and requests:

Research and handle logistics for each college, allowing ample time at each campus
Determine ideal campus visit days
Establish college tour sequence
Identify the most convenient means of travel *
College visit planning tools
Provide college visit planning tools
Provide detailed, day-by-day itinerary

* Pertains to in-person visits only

College list development.

For many families, this is the first, very important step. If your teen needs assistance, Janice can help them to:

Pinpoint their individual college criteria by exploring together their high school background and extracurricular activities, academic goals, and other personal interests
Research and discuss the colleges that meet these criteria and then build a primary list of reach, target, and likely schools.
Based on your preferred dates, college calendars, priority schools, location and other variables, narrow down the list and build a workable college visit itinerary.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

We had a wonderful experience with Janice and Custom College visits. With Janice’s experience, attention to detail and understanding of our son’s strengths and weaknesses she led us through this confusing time with care and support. Highly recommended.

I really thought your custom college visits business would be so useful to parents of college bound kids, especially during the pandemic.

The college visits were also a lot of fun for us as a family and very informative on so many levels. More importantly, Janice helped make the college selection process manageable, not so daunting after all, and we felt no stone was left unturned in this important decision!

Parent of a New York City high school senior

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What To Wear To A College Visit & More: Do’s and Don’ts

Embarking on a college visit is a thrilling step towards your future in higher education. It’s a chance to see where you might spend the next chapter of your life, making it crucial to come prepared. This article is your go-to college visit checklist, designed to help you navigate through campus tours with ease and confidence. From what questions to ask to understanding campus culture, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a student searching for the perfect college or a parent supporting your child’s journey, this guide will ensure you make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in and explore how to prepare, what to look for, and how to reflect on your visits, setting you on the path to finding your ideal college.

Table of Contents

Before Your College Visit Checklist

What to wear during your college visit checklist, during your college visit checklist, after your college visit checklist, key takeaways.

Prepare thoroughly by researching each college’s academic programs, campus culture, and facilities.
Schedule your visit strategically to attend information sessions, tours, and possibly sit in on classes.
Craft a list of questions to ask current students, faculty, and admissions officers to gain deeper insights.

Understanding the Purpose of Your Visit

Why a college visit is crucial.

A college visit is more than just a tour; it’s a firsthand experience of life on campus. It allows you to observe the dynamics of student interactions, the vibe of academic settings, and the overall atmosphere. This immersion can significantly influence your decision-making process, helping you determine if the college feels like home.

Setting Clear Objectives

Before setting foot on campus, it’s essential to define what you hope to achieve from your visit. Are you looking to understand the academic rigor, or are you more interested in the social aspects? Perhaps, you’re keen on exploring specific facilities or programs. Having clear objectives will guide your visit and ensure you gather the information most relevant to your needs.

Personalizing Your Visit

Every prospective student has unique interests and priorities. Tailor your visit to reflect these by choosing to explore areas that align with your academic and extracurricular interests. Whether it’s attending a lecture in your prospective major or meeting with a club that piques your interest, personalizing your visit can provide invaluable insights into your potential fit within the college community.

Researching Colleges Before the Visit

Utilizing online resources.

Before your visit, take advantage of online resources to gather information about the colleges on your list. College websites, virtual tours, and student forums can offer a wealth of information about academic programs, campus life, and student services. This preliminary research will help you refine your list of colleges to visit and develop a list of questions and areas to explore during your visit.

Connecting with Current Students and Alumni

Reaching out to current students and alumni can provide you with a candid perspective on the college experience. Social media, college forums, and alumni networks are great platforms for connecting with individuals who can share their insights and advice. Their experiences can help you identify the aspects of college life that are most important to you.

Reviewing Academic Programs and Majors

If you have a clear idea of your intended major or academic interests, delve into the specific programs offered by each college. Look for information on faculty credentials, department accolades, and the variety of courses available. Understanding the strengths and opportunities within your academic area of interest can play a crucial role in your college selection process.

Scheduling Your Visit

Choosing the right time.

Timing is crucial when planning your college visit. Aim for a period when classes are in session to get a realistic feel of campus life. Avoid holiday breaks or exam periods, as these times may not accurately reflect the typical campus atmosphere. Additionally, consider attending special events like open houses or admitted students’ days, which offer comprehensive tours and sessions designed to answer prospective students’ questions.

Making Official Arrangements

Once you’ve decided on a date, contact the admissions office to schedule your visit. Many colleges offer online registration for tours and information sessions. Registering in advance ensures you have a spot in these activities and can also signal your interest in the college. Don’t forget to inquire about special opportunities to attend classes, meet with faculty, or explore specific facilities related to your interests.

Planning Your Itinerary

After booking your visit, create a detailed itinerary that includes your tour, any information sessions, and additional activities you’ve arranged. Allow for flexibility in your schedule to explore the campus on your own or to engage in spontaneous conversations with students and faculty. If you’re visiting multiple colleges in the area, allocate enough time to travel between campuses and rest.

What to Bring on Your College Visit

Essential documents and identification.

Carry a folder with copies of your high school transcript, standardized test scores, and a resume of your extracurricular activities. While you may not need these documents, having them on hand is useful if you have the opportunity to meet with an admissions officer. Don’t forget your photo ID, as some events or facilities may require identification for entry.

Tools for Note-Taking and Documentation

Bring a notebook and pen to jot down observations, impressions, and answers to your questions. Consider also taking a tablet or laptop if you prefer digital notes. A camera or smartphone can be handy for capturing images of the campus, but remember to respect privacy and ask for permission when photographing individuals or certain areas.

Preparing for the Day

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as you’ll likely be on your feet for several hours. Check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella or sunscreen as necessary. Pack a water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day. A portable charger can also be a lifesaver for keeping your phone or camera powered up.

Questions to Prepare

Academic-related questions.

Prepare a list of questions about the academic programs that interest you. Inquire about class sizes, faculty accessibility, research opportunities, and the process for declaring a major. Questions about the curriculum, such as the balance between core requirements and electives, can also provide insight into the academic experience.

Campus Life and Student Services

Understanding the support services available to students is crucial. Ask about advising, tutoring, mental health resources, and career services. Questions about campus life, including housing options, dining facilities, and extracurricular activities, can help you gauge whether the college meets your personal and social needs.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial considerations are a significant aspect of choosing a college. Prepare questions about the types of financial aid and scholarships available, the application process, and deadlines. Inquiring about the average financial aid package and the percentage of students who receive aid can offer a clearer picture of the college’s affordability.

Understanding Campus Culture

Observing student interactions.

Campus culture is a tapestry woven from the interactions and experiences of its students. During your visit, take time to observe how students interact with each other and with faculty members. Are the interactions formal or more laid-back? Do students seem engaged and enthusiastic about their classes and extracurricular activities? These observations can give you a sense of the community and whether you can see yourself as part of it.

Participating in Campus Events

If possible, participate in campus events or activities during your visit. This could be anything from a public lecture, a cultural festival, to a sports game. Engaging in these events can provide a deeper understanding of the college’s values and the interests of its student body. It’s also a great way to gauge the vibrancy of campus life and the opportunities available for student involvement.

Exploring Diversity and Inclusivity

Understanding a college’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity is crucial. During your visit, look for signs that indicate the campus is a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. This can include resources and centers dedicated to diverse student groups, inclusive policies, and the presence of clubs or organizations that celebrate different cultures and identities. A campus that values diversity is one that fosters a rich learning environment where all perspectives are valued.

Evaluating Academic Programs

Investigating faculty credentials and achievements.

The quality of an academic program is often reflected in the credentials and achievements of its faculty. During your visit, inquire about the faculty’s expertise, research interests, and teaching awards. Engaging with faculty members, if possible, can also provide insight into their passion for teaching and mentorship, which are critical components of your academic growth.

Understanding Curriculum Structure

Each college has its unique approach to curriculum structure, which can significantly impact your educational experience. Investigate how the curriculum is organized in your field of interest. Does it offer flexibility for interdisciplinary study or opportunities for hands-on learning, such as internships and research projects? Understanding the curriculum structure will help you assess how well the program aligns with your academic and career goals.

Assessing Academic Support Services

Academic support services, such as tutoring centers, writing labs, and study groups, are vital resources that can enhance your learning experience. During your visit, explore the availability and accessibility of these services. Ask about the process for seeking help and the types of support offered for students struggling academically. A college that provides robust academic support demonstrates a commitment to student success.

Exploring Campus Facilities

Touring academic buildings and laboratories.

The quality of academic buildings and laboratories can significantly impact your learning experience. During your tour, pay close attention to the facilities related to your prospective major. Are the laboratories equipped with modern technology? Do the libraries have ample resources and study spaces? The state of these facilities can indicate the college’s investment in providing a conducive learning environment.

Evaluating Residential Life

For many students, college is also a home away from home. Exploring the dormitories and residential areas can give you a glimpse into daily life on campus. Consider the quality of the living spaces, the options available for first-year students, and the sense of community within residential halls. A comfortable and welcoming living environment can greatly enhance your college experience.

Checking Out Recreational and Wellness Facilities

Recreational and wellness facilities play a crucial role in ensuring a balanced college life. During your visit, check out the fitness centers, sports complexes, and wellness centers. These facilities not only provide opportunities for physical activity but also support mental health and well-being. A college that prioritizes student wellness is one that recognizes the importance of a holistic educational experience.

Dress for comfort and confidence, ensuring you can move easily throughout the day.
Consider the weather and campus culture when choosing your outfit.
Opt for a smart-casual look that shows respect for the institution while expressing your personality.

Understanding the Campus Culture

Every college has its unique vibe and culture, which can often be reflected in the attire of its students and faculty. Before your visit, it’s helpful to do a bit of research. Look up the college’s website or social media pages to get a sense of the day-to-day student wear. While some campuses may lean towards a more relaxed dress code, others might have a slightly formal or preppy undertone. Aligning your outfit choice with the campus culture can help you feel more connected during your visit.

Incorporating elements that match the school’s spirit, such as wearing school colors or athletic wear from the college’s teams, can also be a subtle nod to your enthusiasm for becoming part of their community. However, it’s crucial to balance this with your comfort and personal style; you want to look prepared and respectful, not like you’re trying too hard.

Understanding the campus culture extends beyond just the students. Take note of how faculty and staff dress. If you’re attending a college with a strong professional or graduate focus, dressing a bit more formally can show that you’re serious about your academic and career aspirations.

Dressing for the Weather

Weather can significantly impact your college visit experience, and dressing appropriately is key. Check the forecast in advance and be prepared for changes. Layering is a smart strategy; it allows you to adjust your outfit throughout the day to stay comfortable. For instance, a lightweight sweater or cardigan over a breathable shirt can work well for varying indoor and outdoor temperatures.

In warmer months, opt for light fabrics and loose-fitting clothes to keep cool, but avoid anything too casual like tank tops or flip-flops unless you’re sure it aligns with the campus atmosphere. During colder seasons, ensure your outer layer is warm enough to handle walking between buildings, but easy to remove once indoors.

Remember, weather conditions can also affect your footwear choice. Comfortable walking shoes that can handle rain or snow are essential. You’ll likely be on your feet for much of the day, exploring different parts of the campus, so prioritize shoes that offer support and durability.

Comfort Meets Style: The Perfect Balance

Achieving a balance between comfort and style is crucial for your college visit. You want to make a positive impression without sacrificing your own comfort. A smart-casual dress code usually hits the mark for college tours. For example, a pair of well-fitting jeans or chinos paired with a button-down shirt or a stylish blouse can be both comfortable and polished.

Avoid wearing brand new clothes or shoes for the first time on your visit. You don’t want to discover halfway through the day that your shoes are uncomfortable or your outfit requires constant adjustment. Stick to tried-and-true pieces in your wardrobe that you know look good and feel comfortable.

Accessorizing your outfit can also add a touch of personality without compromising comfort. A statement watch, a subtle piece of jewelry, or a stylish bag can elevate your look and make you feel more confident. However, it’s important to keep accessories minimal and functional; you don’t want to be juggling large bags or adjusting intricate jewelry during your tour.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Tours

When preparing for your college visit, consider the type of tour you’ll be attending. An official tour led by the college may include presentations, meetings with faculty, or even interviews. In such cases, leaning towards a slightly more formal outfit can demonstrate your seriousness about the opportunity. For example, a smart blazer over a casual shirt can enhance your look without appearing overly formal.

Conversely, if your visit is informal, perhaps a self-guided tour or a casual meet-up with current students, you can afford to dress more relaxed. However, even in casual settings, it’s important to avoid clothing that could be deemed inappropriate or too casual, such as graphic tees with offensive language or overly distressed jeans.

The season and specific events during your visit should also influence your outfit choice. If you’re attending an outdoor event, such as a campus fair or a sports game, ensure your clothing is suitable for extended time outside. This might mean adding a hat and sunglasses for sunny days or a waterproof jacket for rainy weather.

Accessorizing Your Outfit

Accessories can play a significant role in tying your outfit together and expressing your personal style. When choosing accessories for your college visit, aim for items that are both stylish and functional. A sleek backpack or crossbody bag can carry your essentials while keeping your hands free. Opt for bags with secure closures to keep your items safe during the tour.

Watches are not only practical but can also serve as a subtle statement piece. Choosing a watch with a classic design can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Similarly, a simple necklace or pair of earrings can add interest to your look without being distracting.

When it comes to accessories, less is often more. Avoid anything too flashy or bulky that might become cumbersome during the day. Your goal is to complement your outfit and show a bit of your personality without overshadowing the main focus of your visit: learning about the college.

Footwear: Walking in Comfort

Footwear is arguably the most critical aspect of your outfit for a college visit. You’ll likely be walking extensively, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sneakers or flat shoes with good support are ideal choices. If you prefer to wear heels, opt for a low, block heel that provides stability.

It’s also worth considering the terrain of the campus. If the college is known for its hilly landscape or if there are cobblestone paths, choose shoes that will handle these conditions well. In wet or snowy weather, waterproof shoes or boots can keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Remember, the shoes you choose should be well broken-in. New shoes can lead to discomfort or blisters, which can distract from your visit experience. Choose a pair that you’ve worn before and know you can rely on for a day of walking.

What Not to Wear

While focusing on what to wear is important, knowing what to avoid is equally crucial. Here are some key items to steer clear of:

Overly casual wear: While comfort is key, avoid clothing that’s too casual or loungewear, such as pajama pants or slippers.
Distracting patterns or logos: Clothes with loud patterns, large logos, or offensive language can be distracting and give off the wrong impression.
Unsuitable footwear: High heels, flip-flops, or any shoes that compromise your ability to walk comfortably should be avoided.
Too much perfume or cologne: It’s important to be considerate of others who may be sensitive to strong scents.

Choosing the right outfit for a college visit is about balancing comfort, appropriateness, and personal style. By considering the campus culture, weather, and the nature of your visit, you can select an outfit that ensures you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day. Remember, the goal is to make a positive impression and enjoy your visit, so opt for an outfit that reflects the best version of yourself.

FAQ: What to Wear to a College Visit

What to wear to a college visit (men).

For men, a smart-casual outfit is a safe and appropriate choice. Consider wearing chinos or dark jeans paired with a collared shirt. Depending on the weather, you might add a sweater or a casual blazer. Footwear should be comfortable yet tidy, such as loafers or clean sneakers. Avoid overly casual items like shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops.

What to wear to a college visit (women)?

Women can opt for a smart-casual ensemble as well. A nice blouse paired with jeans or a casual skirt can work well. If the weather permits, a dress paired with comfortable flats or low heels is also appropriate. Like men, women should avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Accessories should be kept minimal and functional.

What should parents wear to a college visit?

Parents should aim for a neat and comfortable outfit, leaning towards smart-casual. For dads, khakis or jeans with a polo shirt or casual button-down can be appropriate. Moms might choose a casual dress or a blouse with pants. The key is to wear something presentable yet comfortable enough for walking around campus.

Can I wear leggings to a college visit?

Leggings can be acceptable if styled appropriately. Pair them with a long top or tunic that covers the hips, and add a cardigan or casual blazer for a more put-together look. Ensure the leggings are opaque and in good condition. Consider the campus culture and the day’s activities when deciding.

Does it matter what you wear on a college tour?

Yes, it does. While your outfit likely won’t make or break your college application, dressing appropriately shows respect for the institution and indicates that you take the visit seriously. It can also affect your confidence and comfort level throughout the day.

College tour outfits for mom?

Moms can opt for a comfortable yet polished look. A casual dress, a skirt with a nice top, or pants paired with a blouse are all great choices. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. The outfit should be something that allows for a full day of walking without sacrificing a neat appearance.

What to wear to a college open house?

An open house is an opportunity to make a good impression, so aim for a smart-casual outfit. Avoid overly formal wear but choose clothes that are a step above everyday casual. This could mean a dress or skirt with a blouse for women and chinos with a collared shirt for men.

What to bring to a college visit?

A notepad and pen for taking notes.
A water bottle to stay hydrated.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes.
Any questions you have for faculty or students.
A backpack or bag to carry your items.
Your ID and any necessary documents.
A camera or smartphone for taking photos.
Snacks for energy throughout the day.

Choosing the right outfit and bringing essential items can help make your college visit as informative and comfortable as possible. Remember, the goal is to learn about the college and see yourself as part of the community, so dress in a way that makes you feel confident and respectful.

Prepare a list of departments and majors you’re interested in and plan to visit them.
Engage with current students and faculty to get a sense of the academic and social environment.
Visit dorms, dining halls, and other facilities to evaluate living conditions and amenities.
Inquire about support services such as academic advising, health services, and career counseling.
Discuss admissions and financial aid to understand the application process and financial commitments.

Academic Exploration

Departments and majors.

When visiting a college, diving deep into the departments and majors that interest you is crucial. Start by scheduling meetings with department heads or faculty members to discuss the curriculum, research opportunities, and outcomes for graduates. This is your chance to ask specific questions about the courses, the ratio of theoretical to practical learning, and how the department supports students in securing internships or employment post-graduation.

Exploring the departments also gives you a feel for the academic atmosphere. Are the facilities modern and well-equipped? Is there evidence of student work or achievements displayed? These observations can give you insight into the department’s pride and investment in its students.

Lastly, consider the department’s location on campus. Is it centrally located, making it easy to access other facilities and resources, or is it on the outskirts, requiring a bit of a trek? The physical location can affect your daily life on campus and should be considered in your overall assessment.

Class Observations

Observing a class in session is one of the most insightful experiences during your college visit. It allows you to gauge the teaching style, the interaction between students and professors, and the overall classroom dynamics. When arranging your visit, ask if you can sit in on a class or two, preferably within your field of interest.

During the class, pay attention to the size and see if it aligns with your learning preferences. Do you prefer smaller, more intimate settings where you can easily engage, or are larger lecture halls where you can blend in more your style? Also, note the use of technology and other teaching aids, which can enhance the learning experience.

After the class, take the opportunity to speak with the professor and students. This can provide valuable insights into the academic rigor of the program, the availability of professors outside class hours, and the overall satisfaction with the course and teaching methods.

Faculty Interactions

Interacting with faculty members during your visit can provide a wealth of information about the academic environment and mentorship opportunities. Faculty can offer insights into the curriculum, research opportunities, and what they look for in successful students. These conversations can also help you understand the level of academic challenge you can expect and how faculty support students in their academic and professional growth.

Ask about the faculty’s involvement in advising and mentoring students. Do they offer office hours? How involved are they in guiding students towards career paths or graduate studies? This can be a significant factor in your academic success and satisfaction.

Campus Life Insight

Housing and dining.

Exploring the housing and dining options available on campus is essential for understanding the quality of student life. During your visit, request a tour of the dormitories to get a sense of where you might be living. Pay attention to the room sizes, the availability of communal spaces, and the overall condition of the facilities. Are the dorms clean and well-maintained? Is there security in place? These factors contribute significantly to your comfort and well-being on campus.

Dining options are equally important. Visit the campus dining halls and other eating establishments to sample the food and observe the variety, quality, and dietary accommodations. Consider the meal plan options and whether they suit your eating habits and budget. The availability of healthy, diverse, and appealing food options can greatly enhance your college experience.

Lastly, inquire about the policies related to housing and dining, such as requirements for first-year students to live on campus, options for upperclassmen, and the flexibility of meal plans. Understanding these policies will help you plan for your time at college more effectively.

Student Organizations and Activities

Participation in student organizations and activities is a vital part of the college experience, offering opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and community engagement. During your visit, gather information about the clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities available. Are there groups that match your interests and passions? How easy is it to join or start a new organization?

Attend any available campus events or meetings during your visit to observe the level of student engagement and the sense of community on campus. This can give you a feel for the social atmosphere and whether you can see yourself thriving there.

Also, consider the support the college offers to student organizations, including funding, facilities, and advisement. A college that actively supports student initiatives is likely to foster a vibrant and dynamic campus culture.

Campus Safety

Feeling safe on campus is paramount. During your visit, inquire about the college’s safety measures, including campus police presence, emergency response plans, and safety services such as night-time escort programs or shuttle services. Observe the lighting and emergency call boxes around campus, especially in parking lots and remote areas.

Ask about the college’s policies and programs related to health and wellness, including mental health services and sexual assault prevention. A college that prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students demonstrates a commitment to creating a supportive and secure environment.

Lastly, review the college’s crime statistics and safety reports. These documents can provide insight into the frequency and types of incidents that occur on campus, helping you make an informed decision about your safety and comfort.

Resources and Support Systems

Academic support.

Academic support services are crucial for student success. During your visit, explore the resources available for tutoring, writing assistance, and study skills development. Are these services readily accessible and free of charge? This can be a significant factor in your academic performance and stress management.

Inquire about the availability of libraries, study spaces, and technological resources. A well-equipped library and ample study areas can enhance your learning experience. Additionally, access to up-to-date technology and software is essential for completing coursework and projects.

Lastly, ask about programs for students with disabilities or those who need special accommodations. Understanding the support available can ensure that you will have the necessary resources to succeed academically.

Health and Wellness

Your health and wellness are critical to your academic and personal success in college. During your visit, check out the health center and inquire about the services provided, such as medical care, counseling, and wellness programs. Are the services comprehensive and accessible to all students?

Explore the recreational facilities and fitness programs available on campus. Facilities such as gyms, pools, and sports fields, along with fitness classes and intramural sports, can contribute to your physical well-being and provide a welcome break from academic pressures.

Also, consider the college’s approach to mental health. Are there counseling services, stress management workshops, and other resources to support students’ mental health? A college that prioritizes the holistic well-being of its students is likely to provide a more supportive and nurturing environment.

Career Services

The support you receive in preparing for your career can significantly impact your post-graduation success. During your visit, explore the career services office and learn about the resources available for internships, job placement, and career counseling. How does the college assist students in finding internships and employment opportunities in their field of study?

Inquire about the opportunities for networking with alumni and industry professionals. Events such as career fairs, guest speaker series, and mentorship programs can provide valuable connections and insights into your chosen field.

Lastly, ask about the success rates of graduates in securing employment or admission to graduate programs. This information can give you an idea of the effectiveness of the college’s career services and the value of a degree from this institution.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admissions office visit.

A visit to the admissions office is a pivotal part of your college tour. It’s your opportunity to gather detailed information about the application process, deadlines, and any required materials. Ask about the selection criteria and what the admissions committee looks for in a candidate. This can provide insights into how to strengthen your application.

Inquire about the possibility of interviews, either on-campus or with alumni, as part of the admissions process. Understanding the interview’s role and how to prepare for it can significantly impact your application’s success.

Lastly, ask about visitation programs that might offer a more in-depth look at the college, such as overnight stays or special events for prospective students. These programs can provide a closer look at student life and further inform your decision.

Financial Aid Discussion

Understanding the financial commitment involved in attending college is crucial. During your visit, make time to speak with a financial aid officer to discuss tuition, fees, and the types of financial aid available, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Ask about the application process for financial aid, important deadlines, and any required documentation. This information will be vital in planning your financial strategy for college.

Additionally, inquire about the average financial aid package awarded to students and the percentage of students who receive financial aid. This can give you an idea of the college’s affordability and the likelihood of receiving financial support.

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of college. While at the financial aid office, ask about scholarship opportunities specific to the college, including merit-based, need-based, and department-specific scholarships.

Learn about the application process for these scholarships, including deadlines, required essays, and letters of recommendation. Knowing these details well in advance can improve your chances of securing financial support.

Also, inquire about external scholarship opportunities and resources the college recommends or provides assistance with. Many organizations offer scholarships for college students, and the financial aid office should have information on how to find and apply for these additional resources.

Campus Tour Essentials

Touring the campus.

A guided campus tour is a highlight of any college visit, offering a comprehensive look at the college’s facilities, resources, and atmosphere. Pay attention to the condition and accessibility of academic buildings, libraries, student centers, and recreational facilities. These are places you will spend a significant amount of time and should meet your needs and expectations.

Observe the campus layout and transportation options, especially if the college is large or spread out. Ease of navigation and the availability of campus shuttles or public transportation can affect your daily life and convenience.

Lastly, take note of the campus’s overall atmosphere during your tour. Does it feel welcoming and vibrant? Can you see yourself being happy and engaged here? Your emotional and intuitive responses to the campus environment are important factors in your college decision.

Exploring Off-Campus

The area surrounding the college can greatly influence your college experience. Take time to explore the local community, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Consider the availability of internships and job opportunities, as well as access to outdoor activities or cultural experiences.

Safety is also a crucial consideration. Explore the neighborhood around the campus to get a sense of its safety and livability. Inquire about the college’s relationship with the local community and any safety measures in place for students living off-campus.

Understanding the off-campus environment will help you gauge your overall quality of life during your college years and whether you can envision yourself thriving in this community.

Asking the Right Questions

Throughout your college visit, asking the right questions is key to gathering the information you need to make an informed decision. Prepare a list of questions in advance, covering topics such as academic programs, campus life, support services, admissions, and financial aid.

Don’t hesitate to ask current students about their experiences and satisfaction with the college. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives that go beyond official presentations and brochures.

Lastly, follow up with the admissions office after your visit with any additional questions or for clarification on information you received. Demonstrating your interest and taking the initiative to learn more about the college can also positively impact your application.

Reflect on your visit to understand your true feelings about the campus and community.
Organize your thoughts, notes, and any materials collected during the visit.
Discuss your experience with family, friends, and mentors to gain different perspectives.
Research further into your areas of interest, potential majors, and extracurricular activities.
Understand the financial aspects, including tuition, scholarships, and other funding opportunities.
Connect with current students and alumni to get insider information about the college.
Follow up with the admissions office or any contacts you made during the visit.

Reflect on Your Visit

After returning from your college visit, take some time to reflect on your experience. Think about the overall atmosphere of the campus, the attitude of the students and faculty, and how you felt walking around. Did it feel like a place you could call home? Consider the aspects you liked and those you didn’t. This reflection is crucial in helping you understand your gut feeling about the institution.

Next, consider the academic environment. Were the facilities up to your expectations? Did the classrooms, labs, and libraries seem conducive to learning? Think about the conversations you had with faculty and students. Did they seem engaged and passionate about their work and studies? This reflection will help you gauge the academic rigor and support systems of the college.

Lastly, reflect on the extracurricular activities and campus life. Did the clubs, organizations, and social scenes align with your interests? Can you see yourself participating in these activities? This part of reflection helps you understand if you’ll be able to pursue your hobbies and interests outside the classroom, which is essential for a well-rounded college experience.

Organize Your Thoughts and Notes

After your visit, you’ll likely have a lot of information, brochures, business cards, and notes. Start by organizing these materials. Create a dedicated folder or digital space for each college you visit. This organization will make it easier for you to retrieve information when you need it.

Next, go through your notes and highlight the most important points about each aspect of the college, such as academics, campus life, and financial aid. This process will help you compare different colleges more effectively. If you took photos or videos during your visit, organize these as well. Visual reminders can be powerful tools in helping you recall your feelings about the visit.

Finally, write a summary of your visit while it’s still fresh in your mind. Include your initial impressions, things you liked and disliked, and any unanswered questions you might have. This summary will be invaluable when you’re making your final decision or if you need to discuss your options with family or mentors.

Discuss With Family and Mentors

After organizing your thoughts, it’s time to discuss your visit with family, friends, and mentors. Their perspectives can provide valuable insights that you might not have considered. Share your reflections, summaries, and any materials you collected during the visit.

Family members can offer support and advice based on their understanding of your personality and aspirations. They might point out factors you haven’t considered, such as distance from home or financial implications. Their input can be crucial in making a balanced decision.

Mentors or counselors can provide a more objective viewpoint. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each college, considering your career goals and academic interests. Their experience with other students can also offer a broader perspective on how different institutions might suit your needs.

Research Further

After discussing your visit with family and mentors, you might find areas that require further research. Perhaps there are specific programs, clubs, or opportunities you want to know more about. Now is the time to dive deeper into these aspects to gather all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Start by visiting the college’s official website again, but this time with a focused approach. Look for details on the programs that interest you, faculty qualifications, student-to-teacher ratios, and any unique opportunities for research or internships. This detailed research will help you understand the academic environment and opportunities for personal growth.

Next, explore forums, social media groups, and online communities where current students or alumni share their experiences. These platforms can offer unfiltered insights into life at the college, the quality of education, and the community atmosphere. Be mindful of biases but pay attention to recurring themes in people’s experiences.

Lastly, if you have unanswered questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the admissions office or specific departments. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. This step shows your continued interest in the college and can also provide clarity on any concerns or uncertainties you may have.

Financial Considerations

Understanding the financial implications of attending a college is crucial. After your visit, take a closer look at the tuition fees, living expenses, and any additional costs associated with attending the college. This analysis will help you plan your budget and explore financial aid options.

First, compile a comprehensive list of all expected expenses, including tuition, accommodation, food, books, and personal expenses. This list will give you a clear picture of the total cost of attendance. Don’t forget to consider potential increases in tuition fees over the years.

Next, research scholarship opportunities, grants, and work-study programs offered by the college. Many institutions have financial aid packages designed to make education more accessible. Understand the application process for these financial aids, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Lastly, explore external scholarship opportunities and financial aid options. Many organizations and foundations offer scholarships based on merit, field of study, or background. Applying for these scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden and make your dream college more affordable.

Admissions and Applications

After your college visit, it’s time to focus on the admissions process. Reflecting on your visit and further research should have solidified your interest in applying to the college. Now, you need to understand the application requirements and deadlines to ensure a smooth application process.

First, review the application deadlines for the colleges you’re interested in. Note that some colleges have early decision or early action deadlines, which are earlier than regular admission deadlines. Decide which application timeline suits you best based on your readiness and level of interest.

Next, gather all the required materials for your application. This list typically includes your high school transcript, standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, personal essays, and any additional materials specific to your desired program. Start working on these components well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Lastly, consider how your college visit can enhance your application. Reflect on your experience and find ways to incorporate it into your essays or interviews. Mentioning specific programs, interactions with faculty, or campus features that excited you can demonstrate your genuine interest in the college and help your application stand out.

Connect With Current Students and Alumni

One of the most insightful steps you can take after your college visit is to connect with current students and alumni. These connections can provide you with a deeper understanding of the college experience, from academic workload to social life and career opportunities after graduation.

Start by reaching out to student ambassadors or members of clubs and organizations that interest you. Many colleges have programs designed to connect prospective students with current students. These conversations can offer a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the college.

Next, utilize LinkedIn or alumni networks to connect with graduates of the college. Alumni can provide valuable insights into how the college has prepared them for their careers and offer advice on making the most of your college experience. They can also be a great resource for networking and career opportunities in the future.

Follow Up on Your Visit

After your college visit, following up is a key step that can demonstrate your interest and keep you engaged with the college community. This step is not just about saying thank you; it’s about maintaining a connection that could be beneficial throughout your application process and beyond.

Firstly, send a thank you email to the admissions office and any faculty or students who made your visit more informative or enjoyable. Mention specific aspects of your visit that impressed you or contributed significantly to your understanding of the college. This personalized approach shows your genuine interest and appreciation.

Next, if you had any conversations during your visit that left you with unanswered questions, now is the time to follow up. Whether it’s clarifying something about the admissions process, asking more about a specific program, or inquiring about campus life, reaching out for more information demonstrates your proactive and engaged approach to your college decision-making process.

Lastly, keep an eye on your email and the college’s social media for any follow-up surveys or feedback requests regarding your visit. Providing detailed and constructive feedback not only helps the college improve future visits for others but also reinforces your interest in the institution. Engaging with the college through social media can also keep you updated on upcoming events, application tips, and campus news.

Consider Your Gut Feeling

While facts, figures, and rational considerations are crucial in choosing a college, your gut feeling about a place should not be underestimated. After all the visits, research, and discussions, it’s important to take a moment to listen to your instincts about where you see yourself thriving.

Reflect on your visit and imagine yourself as a student on that campus. Do you feel excited and motivated, or are there lingering doubts and concerns? Sometimes, your subconscious picks up on subtleties that your conscious mind overlooks. Trusting your intuition can be a powerful guide in making a decision that feels right for you.

Consider the aspects of the college that are most important to you, whether it’s the academic environment, community atmosphere, or extracurricular opportunities. How well does the college align with these priorities? Your gut feeling is often a reflection of these alignments or misalignments.

Lastly, remember that it’s okay to feel uncertain. Choosing a college is a significant decision, and it’s normal to have mixed feelings. Discussing these feelings with trusted advisors, friends, or family can provide clarity and reassurance. Ultimately, the right choice is one that aligns with both your goals and your instincts.

Prepare for the Next Steps

With your college visit behind you and a wealth of information at your fingertips, it’s time to prepare for the next steps in your college application journey. This preparation involves not just completing applications but also setting yourself up for success regardless of the outcome.

First, create a timeline for completing your applications, including writing essays, gathering recommendations, and submitting any required test scores. Staying organized and on schedule can reduce stress and help you present the best version of yourself to admissions committees.

Next, continue to engage with your top-choice colleges through open houses, virtual events, and by staying in touch with admissions representatives. This engagement shows your interest and keeps you informed about any changes or additional opportunities.

Lastly, start preparing for the transition to college life. This preparation can include researching housing options, exploring majors and courses, and considering how you’ll manage your time and responsibilities. Even if you’re still deciding between colleges, understanding what lies ahead can make the transition smoother and more exciting.

FAQs About After Your College Visit

Q: How soon after my visit should I follow up with a thank you note? A: It’s best to send a thank you note within a week of your visit. This timing shows promptness and keeps your visit fresh in the minds of those you’re thanking.

Q: Can I reach out to professors I met during my visit? A: Yes, if you had meaningful interactions with professors and have further questions, it’s appropriate to reach out via email. Be respectful of their time and express your appreciation for any insights they provide.

Q: What if my gut feeling is telling me no, but the college looks perfect on paper? A: It’s important to trust your instincts. A college might seem perfect in terms of academics and opportunities, but if it doesn’t feel right, it might not be the best environment for you to thrive. Consider revisiting the campus or reaching out to more students and alumni for additional perspectives.

Q: How can I use my visit experience to strengthen my application? A: Highlight specific aspects of your visit that resonated with you in your application essays or interviews. This could include programs, facilities, or conversations that made the college stand out to you. Demonstrating this level of personal connection and interest can make your application more compelling.

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Here's Exactly What to Wear on Your College Visit or Tour

A college tour is one of the best opportunities you have to learn about what a campus is really like. Reading promotional material, or even student blogs, isn't the same as seeing and experiencing it for yourself, but, like any other aspect of applying to college, you need to make sure you're prepared for a college visit—and that means wearing the right outfit!

Most of the time, dressing for a college tour is a casual affair. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider the best way to go about it—comfort and classiness are key .

This guide will walk you through the best way to dress for many different college visit scenarios . A bit of planning will help you have the best possible experience, as well as prepare you for interviews, auditions, and just exploring your dream campus. Read on to find out how!

What to Wear to a College Visit

One of the biggest things to keep in mind when considering what to wear to a college visit is that, in most cases, a college tour is for you to see the college, not for the college to see you .

For the most part, you can dress casually. But there are special considerations if you won’t just be touring the college, so keep that in mind as you’re planning your outfit.

What to Wear on a College Visit If You’re Just Walking Around Campus on Your Own

If you’re not on a guided tour and are just checking out the campus, you can wear pretty much whatever you want, within reason . It might look weird if you’re strolling through campus in a suit—whether three-piece or bathing—but if you’re just there as a visitor, you’re on your own.

What to Wear on a College Tour If You’re on a Guided Tour

If you’re on a guided tour, it’s absolutely okay to be a little casual. You don't need to be impressive, though you should aim for comfort and self-confidence .

Comfortable shoes are a must, though maybe choose something nicer than your rattiest pair of sneakers . Whatever shoes you wear should be broken in so you don't have to deal with pinching and blisters midway through the day. If your feet are hurting, you're less likely to be paying attention to the tour!

Jeans are fine, as are t-shirts, but be wary of anything with a slogan or image that might be offensive. Even if a curse word or scantily clad person doesn't bother you, it's probably not the right fit for your first impression!

You don’t have to dress fancy, but do put in a little bit of effort. Present your best self—the self you’d want people to see as you venture off to college .

What to Wear on a College Tour If You’re Meeting With a Professor

Many students take advantage of being on campus to schedule appointments with advisers or professors in their field of study. If you’ve chosen to do so, it’s a smart idea to dress it up a little bit. Dress clothes are unnecessary, but do dress a little nicer than you would for just a tour .

Polished shoes are a good choice, but you still want them to be comfortable. If they’re going to pinch as you walk around campus, you may want to go more casual with a nice boat shoe, loafer, or boot. Whatever you choose, be sure that your shoes are broken in.

Dark, nice jeans are appropriate for a meeting with a professor. You could also opt for corduroys or khakis— whatever is going to make you feel most comfortable and confident .

A meeting with a professor is more professional than a tour, but not as professional as a college interview . Instead of a t-shirt, go for something a little classier—a button-up shirt or blouse is always a good choice. You don’t need to reach for a blazer, but if it makes you feel good, do it!

Most importantly, come prepared with questions and a good attitude . This is your chance to find out more about the school you want to attend, and that’s going to matter far more than looking like a model.

What to Wear to a College Visit If You Have an Interview

Business casual is your go-to for dressing for a college interview . You want to look both confident and professional, so spend a little more time on choosing your shirt and pants than you might for just a guided tour or meeting with a professor.

If you’re walking around campus as well as doing an interview, however, you’re going to want to be sure your shoes are going to hold up to lots of walking as well as looking sharp . Loafers may be a better choice than a dress shoe, unless you’re absolutely certain you’ve broken in the dress shoes and they’re still going to be comfortable after an hour or two.

Opt for a skirt, khakis, corduroy pants, or similar, paired with a button-up shirt or blouse. Dresses are fine, provided you cover your shoulders with a sweater or blazer. Keep your skirt length to around your knees (especially if you’re walking around!), but don’t worry about pantyhose or tights if they’re not comfortable or seasonally appropriate.

Choose an outfit that's right for the season and climate . Layer your clothes if you're touring in the fall or winter so you'll be presentable during your interview, but stay warm enough outside. In the spring and summer, wear light, breathable fabrics so you're not overheating outside—you don't want to show up for your interview all red-faced and sweaty.

If you’re doing an interview on top of taking a tour, consider bringing a change of clothes . You want to be at your best during the interview, so changing into a fresh set of clothes might be your best option, if possible. If not, see if you can schedule your interview for before the tour—that way, you’re not already tired and disheveled from a day of wandering.

What to Wear on a College Tour If You’re Auditioning

Business casual is a good baseline, but, depending on what you’re auditioning for, you might make some additional tweaks to your clothes .

For example, what would a professional musician wear? How about an actor attending an audition? What would you wear to a gallery opening (though don’t get too fancy!)? Don’t overdo it, but do base your outfit choice on what makes sense for your field.

Comfortable shoes are still an absolute must, as you may be standing during your audition as well as walking around campus.

Choose an outfit that suits the weather—don’t wear a sweater for a summer campus tour in California—or add layers that you can remove when you’re done auditioning so you don’t overheat. The reverse is true, as well; bring a warm coat and gloves if necessary.

If walking around in your audition outfit will be too uncomfortable, consider bringing a change of clothes. Though you may have to carry a change of clothes, it’s far better to be comfortable and confident for your interview, and simply comfortable for the tour !

How to Pick What to Wear on a College Tour

What outfit you should wear depends in part on what you’re doing. Unless you’ll be doing an interview or audition, don’t rush out and buy a whole new wardrobe .

Try on lots of combinations and try to find what makes you feel good about yourself as well as comfortable. Again, you’re going to be focused on learning more about the campus, not on impressing your guide . Put in effort, but don’t overdo it.

It can’t be overstated: you’re going to be walking a lot , so wear comfortable, broken-in shoes.

Bring a bag, whether it’s a nice messenger bag or a clean, classy backpack. You’re going to be given lots of information, pamphlets, and so on, and having a place to put it will make walking around much easier. A bag can also hold a water bottle, snacks, and a notebook, which you can use to write down questions and notes you might have while touring.

Don’t worry too much about your outfit . You’ll be part of a group—unless you’re interviewing or auditioning, your main concern should be what you’re going to learn from the visit. Look clean and confident and you’ll have everything you need.

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Sample Outfits For a College Tour

With clothes, seeing is easier than reading. Here are a few sample outfits (including some that won't work) to give you the fashion inspiration you need to plan your college tour !

You don’t have to get fancy, but look at how confident and comfortable she looks . That’s the kind of air you want to strive for, whatever that means to you in terms of clothes!

These looks are great if you’re doing something a little more formal, such as an audition, interview, or meeting with a professor. Don’t feel like you have to do the whole suit and tie, but notice how each outfit looks tidy and well put-together . Pay special attention to the shoes, too—they’re all different styles, but each is great for a business casual setting.

This outfit definitely suits the model’s unique style. In summer, these short sleeves and sunglasses are perfect. It’s okay to be unique, as long as it makes you comfortable .

This look is extremely simple and casual, and also perfect for a college tour . A clean t-shirt, a favorite pair of pants, and tidy hair are all it takes.

While great for going to the beach, this look isn’t the best for a college setting. It’s a little too attention-grabby; remember, you’re there to learn about the school, not to stand out . The combination of the shirt's low-cut sides and bright pattern are a bit much, especially with the razor blade necklace and sunglasses. The print would be acceptable on a t-shirt, by try to strive for a style that’s understated rather than loud.

Don’t feel like you can’t be your quirky self on a college visit, but those shoes are a definite no with how much walking you’ll be doing . Again, don’t worry about standing out—you’re not at a college visit to make a big splash, but rather to learn more about the place you could be living in for four or more years. If this is your everyday wear, by all means, go for it, but be sure you’re feeling comfortable and confident.

How to Make the Most of Your College Visit

Now that your outfit is settled, you can focus on the important stuff: getting as much as you can out of your college visit .

Come prepared with questions you'd like answered , including questions for current students, academic advisers, and admissions officers. You may have the opportunity to ask them, and it's better to be overprepared than underprepared !

If there's anything in particular you want to see, leave a little time during your visit to check it out in case it's not part of the tour . You can always ask your guide if it's okay to visit the library, for example, or to see the gym, art museum, or football field. Though you may not be able to get into all of them, there's no harm in asking! Looking at a map and list of facilities will help you plan what you want to see ahead of time.

Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations on your tour, either. Stopping by a local restaurant recommended by a student is a great way to get a sense of what student life is like. See what the area has to offer besides your future school !

What's Next?

Touring campus is just one part of the college application process . This complete guide to college applications will help you plan your application step by step!

There are over 5,000 colleges in the United States—how can you possibly decide which ones you should apply to? Using a college finder tool can help you sort through your options and find your ideal school without having to tour every single campus.

Once you've found a bunch of schools that sound good, you then have to figure out which ones to apply to. This guide will help you narrow down your list to the essentials —safeties, matches, and reach school.

Want to build the best possible college application? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions combines world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit and are driven to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in:

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, visiting colleges: how many should i visit.

I want to make the most out of my college visits, but I'm not really sure how many colleges I should aim to visit. Any recommendations on a good number for a well-rounded experience?

It's fantastic that you're planning to visit colleges to get a better sense of which schools might be a good fit for you. The number of college visits ultimately depends on your individual circumstances, such as your time, budget, and the geographic proximity of the colleges you're considering. However, a general guideline is to visit around 5-10 colleges, which should give you a solid understanding of different campus environments and help you refine your preferences.

Start by visiting a mix of college types, including large research universities, small liberal arts colleges, and schools that fall somewhere in between. This way, you'll get a feel for the differences in campus atmosphere, class sizes, resources, and overall vibe. Also, make sure to include safety, target, and reach schools in your list.

As you visit each school, take notes or photos to help you remember your impressions and experiences. You can use these notes to later reflect on your visits and narrow down your list when submitting applications. Don't forget to interact with current students, attend information sessions, and explore both academic and social spaces on campus during your visits to get the most comprehensive experience possible.

Additionally, if you're unable to physically visit a campus, consider exploring virtual tours, online information sessions, and reaching out to current students or alumni to gain insights. Remember, the goal of college visits is to help you determine which environment and academic offerings best align with your needs, so prioritize quality experiences over the number of colleges you visit.

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

College Football 25 recruiting guide for Dynasty mode

Grab the best high school prospects with our College Football 25 recruiting guide

College Football 25 recruiting is the most fun you’ll have in a game this year. Because players can only stay with their team for four years, your College Football 25 dynasty roster has to evolve every season – and the key to keeping it in strong shape is knowing how to attract high school stars. Below we explain both the basics and the finer details, in your College Football 25 recruiting guide.

College Football 25 recruiting basics

EA focussed on three pillars when it came to building the high school recruitment model in Dynasty Mode. It’s worth you knowing these from the outset, as they all play into whether a hot prospect is willing to join your program:

Recruits have unique needs and motivations that you have to discover by interacting with them individually.
Regions of the country are differentiated by player caliber, quality, and type to authentically capture high school talent based on historical real-world data.
The different resources available mean the top schools blanket the country, while smaller schools need to be more targeted.

Your College Football 25 recruiting board

At that start of each season you begin to populate your recruiting board. There are more than 3,500 players to choose from, so it’s worth investing some time on this initial groundwork. Go old school and have a pen and paper handy too!

The first thing to look for is five-star prospects who also have a pipeline rating of 5. These should be your number one priority, particularly in positions of need. Some may even sign as soon as you offer a scholarship. From here, look for four-star prospects with a 5 pipeline rating, or five-star prospects with a 4 pipeline rating. Follow this down to three-star prospects with a 5 pipeline rating, and so on.

As you play you’ll develop nuances to your searches, such as height, weight and other subtle differentiators, but this advice is an excellent starting point.

The maximum number of players on your board is 35. As the weeks advance, note down each prospect’s three key motivations, some of which are Deal Breakers. You want to make sure your recruit aligns with your strongest points on the grades list below. Any with desires for which you only have B or C grades may need to be immediately removed from your board. But that’s up to you!

College Football 25 recruiting hours

Once the season is underway, you need to commit hours to winning over your recruits. While you’re doing this, prospects gradually narrow down their top schools from Open, to Top 8, Top 5, Top 3, and finally Commitment. Your priority is to stay above their cut-off line each week.

Recruiting hours are based on your team’s prestige. A five-star college starts out with 1,000 hours, while a one-star school gets just 350. Also, you can only spend 50 hours on a single prospect, unless you have the Always Be Crootin’ ability. This grants 70 hours at specific positions.

Here’s a list of what you can do with those 50 hours, for each prospect:

Scout - 10 hours (usually takes three sessions to full scout one player)
Offer Scholarship - 5 hours
Search Social Media - 5 hours
DM The Player - 10 hours
Contact Friends and Family - 25 hours
Send The House - 50 hours
Soft Sell - 20 hours (only available when in recruit has chosen top five schools)
Hard Sell - 40 hours (only available when in recruit has chosen top five schools)
Sway - 30 hours (only available when in recruit has chosen top five schools)
Schedule Visit - 40 hours (see the final point of this guide)

College Football 25 recruiting school grades

Your school grades are vital in attracting prospects. There are 14 in total. Most can be improved – or get worse – as you progress, meaning results really do matter. When you talk to players or bring them in for visits, try to match your strengths with theirs, using the color coded symbols. Green is good, red is a no-go!

Playing Time: How long it will take for a player to become a starter in your college.
Playing Style: A representation of how you play. For example, Field General quarterbacks' 'playing style' grade is dictated by passing yards per game.
Championship Contender: How close your team is to winning a championship, based on current rankings.
Program Tradition: Historic success based on Championships, wins, and awards.
Campus Lifestyle: A rating of the area surrounding the campus, and campus itself. This grade cannot be changed.
Stadium Atmosphere: This is set according to the stadium’s Toughest Places to Play ranking, which is based on home wins.
Pro Potential: How likely it is that players on the current roster will make it to the NFL.
Brand Exposure: A team’s overall brand recognition.
Academic Prestige: How good your school is academically. This grade cannot be changed.
Conference Prestige: The overall strength of the conference your college plays in.
Coach Prestige: How good the school’s coaching staff is, especially the Head Coach.
Coach Stability: How long the coaching staff has been in place and is likely to keep their jobs over four years.
Athletic Facilities: The quality of athletic facilities for the program.
Proximity to Home: Where your school is in relation to the recruit’s home pipeline.

College Football 25 schedule visit and securing a prospect

As the season unfolds, the final element of securing your target is the Schedule Visit option. This costs 40 hours from your overall team allocation, but doesn’t count against the 50 individual hours. It’s only available once a prospect has finalised his top five, and been offered a scholarship by your school.

You can host up to four prospects per visit, and they’re only available for home games or bye weeks. There are 14 activities to choose from. Again, try to marry up a prospects’ three interests with your strengths! Also think carefully about positions. Bringing two QBs in on the same day is likely to put one or both off, due to them being in direct competition. However, a QB and LT pairing might develop chemistry. Also, be sure to win the match in question!

Once your prospects have verbally committed, it’s all about maintaining your promises until signing day. For instance, if they have Championship Contender as a Deal Breaker and you lose five games on the spin, there’s a risk of losing them. Hopefully that doesn’t happen and, once signing day is done, you can relax and start busting out some College Football 25 celebrations . Until the whole process begins again to start the next season…

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I'm GamesRadar's sports editor, and obsessed with NFL, WWE, MLB, AEW, and occasionally things that don't have a three-letter acronym – such as Chvrches, Bill Bryson, and Streets Of Rage 4. (All the Streets Of Rage games, actually.) Even after three decades I still have a soft spot for Euro Boss on the Amstrad CPC 464+.

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WATCH: Patrick Mahomes and Ex Longhorns WR Xavier Worthy Already Showing Chemistry at Training Camp

Matt galatzan | 8 hours ago.

28. Xavier Worthy, WR, Kansas City Chiefs

Texas Longhorns

When former Texas Longhorns wide receiver Xavier Worthy was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs , many were calling it an ideal fit.

After all, Worthy had just broken the NFL Combine record for the 40-yard dash, and will now have one of the NFL's strongest arms throwing him the football in Patrick Mahomes.

And through the start of Chiefs training camp, it appears that connection is already flourishing.

During a scrimmage over the weekend, Mahomes hit Worthy on a 60-yard bomb over the top of the defense for a touchdown, showing exactly what the pair could be capable of next season.

You can check out the clip here:

GET USED TO IT 🔥 Mahomes scrambles to find Xavier Worthy DEEP for the touchdown pic.twitter.com/qqEQrwSuyO — KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) July 21, 2024

In Austin, Worthy certainly did much of the same as he appears to be on his way to doing with Kansas City, making 197 catches for 2,755 yards (67.2 yards per game) and 26 touchdowns.

He also helped lead the Longhorns to their first Big 12 title since the Mack Brown era, and their first College Football Playoff appearance in program history.

Next season with the Chiefs, Worthy's blazing speed will give Mahomes yet another speedy target that can help give the defending Super Bowl champs a chance to win a third title in a row.

"I’m coming with the mentality to work hard and earn my spot in the locker room," Worthy said after being drafted. "I feel like I’m a complete receiver. I can run the whole route tree, disciplined, smart, and know the game really well, so I feel like I bring a complete receiver to Kansas City."

MATT GALATZAN

Matt Galatzan is the Publisher of LonghornsCountry.com, AllAggies.com, and the Managing Editor of BuckeyesNow.com and TheGroveReport.com He is also the Editor-In-Chief of RamDigest.com and TexansDaily.com. Galatzan graduated from the University of Mississippi, where he studied integrated marketing communications, with minors in journalism and business administration. Galatzan started in the sports journalism industry under Mike Fisher at DallasBasketball.com in 2014, which at the time was part of the 247Sports network. He also spent two years covering the SMU Mustangs for PonyStampede.com on the 247Sports network. When DallasBasketball.com and CowboysCountry.com moved over to Sports Illustrated's Fan Nation network in 2020, Galatzan followed suit, eventually being taking over as the Managing Editor and Publisher of LonghornsCountry.com and AllAggies.com a year later. Through the years, Galatzan has conducted a handful of high-profile one-on-one interviews to add to his resume — in both writing and podcasting. Some of his biggest interviews have been with Mavs owner Mark Cuban, former Longhorns players Dan Neil and Phil Dawson, and many other recruits, and current/former players for each of the teams he has covered. Galatzan is also a full-time employee in the digital media department for Audacy and KRLD FM's 105.3 The Fan in Dallas, which is the official radio home of the Dallas Cowboys. You can find Galatzan on all major social media channels, including Twitter on @MattGalatzan For any inquiries, please email [email protected]

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14 Tips for an Effective College Visit
Start planning early. As students get closer to the final year of high school, their schedules are filled trying to balance school and a social life - all while exploring potential college ...
The College Campus Tour Checklist
Before you visit a college campus, call the admissions office to make a reservation for an information session and/or a guided campus tour Ask if the school has recommendations on what to wear for your visit; If the school you're interested in touring is far away, you can ask about hotels in the area and parking passes ...
32 Questions to Ask on a College Visit
Here are 32 example questions, collected from college admissions and enrollment professions, that students don't always think to ask on college visits. These questions - edited for length or ...
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And you can plan your own informal visit to a college campus. Take these important steps first: Visit the college's admissions website to get details about arranging for an in-person visit. Check with your school counselor to see if any campus tours are scheduled. Set aside time to be on your own. Walk around the public area.
Campus Visit Checklist
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 ...
The Ultimate Checklist for College Campus Visits
Gather Basic Information: Start your preparation by researching the college's size, academic programs, student-to-faculty ratio, campus setting, and overall culture. This foundational knowledge will help you focus your visit. Understand Admission Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the admissions process, deadlines, and required documents. Knowing these details will allow you to ask ...
Six Steps to Get the Most Out of a Campus Visit
Ask about the best times to visit. 3. Take Your Own Tour. Wandering around the campus on your own or with friends can be the best way to get a feel for the college. 4. Explore the College's Facilities. Talk to students to find out the best places to eat and have lunch there. Visit the library.
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Every college's culture offers a unique blend of academics, student life, and local flare. Created using the first-hand knowledge of our Senior Mentors, Command Education's Guide to College Visit Recommendations compiles the most important things to see and do both on campus and off, helping you make informed decisions about where you'll ...
Planning your college visit (article)
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.
How to Schedule and Prepare for Your First College Visit
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 ...
The Most Common Questions About College Campus Visits
To give you a clear picture of what to expect, we've compiled answers to five frequently asked questions about college campus visits. 1. Why should I do a college visit? Visiting a college campus offers invaluable insights into the campus environment, academic facilities, and overall atmosphere.
10 Things You Should Do on Every College Visit
2. Browse the bookstore. If you are the first child in your family to attend college, you should prepare to dissociate yourself from your parents upon entering the bookstore. As soon as mom or dad spies a price tag on a textbook, they may react with surprise, anger, disbelief, tears, or any combination of the above.
College Visits: When (and If) to Make Them
Lastly, we encourage all of our students to make their best effort to visit a school before committing to it on the universal college commitment day, May 1st. Obviously, we do not advise students to put themselves or their family through discomfort if this is a complete impossibility. On the other hand, many students will find it a worthy ...
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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.
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1. Write down and be aware of orientation: dates, location, agenda and accommodations. 2. Learn about organizations for students with similar interests. 3. Ask how promptly academic feedback is ...
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Start using the College Trip Planner! Or, read on to learn more about the best free tool for researching colleges and planning campus visits. The College Trip Planner helps you choose the schools that you want to visit. Find universities by keyword, or use our College Search to select the right schools for you. Add schools to The College Trip ...
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A visit to a college campus can help you decide if that college is right for you. Make a plan before you leave for college to get the most from your visit. When to Visit Colleges. Visiting a college campus allows you to experience the campus atmosphere firsthand, interact with current students, and gain valuable insights into the college's ...
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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 Road Trip & On-Campus Itinerary Planning
Itinerary Planning. Your itinerary will be customized to meet your specific interests and requests: Research and handle logistics for each college, allowing ample time at each campus. Determine ideal campus visit days. Establish college tour sequence. Identify the most convenient means of travel *. College visit planning tools.
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Embarking on a college visit is a thrilling step towards your future in higher education. It's a chance to see where you might spend the next chapter of your life, making it crucial to come prepared. ... Learn about the application process for these scholarships, including deadlines, required essays, and letters of recommendation. Knowing ...
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A college tour is one of the best opportunities you have to learn about what a campus is really like. Reading promotional material, or even student blogs, isn't the same as seeing and experiencing it for yourself, but, like any other aspect of applying to college, you need to make sure you're prepared for a college visit—and that means wearing the right outfit!
Visiting colleges: how many should I visit?
However, a general guideline is to visit around 5-10 colleges, which should give you a solid understanding of different campus environments and help you refine your preferences. Start by visiting a mix of college types, including large research universities, small liberal arts colleges, and schools that fall somewhere in between.
When to Visit Colleges
It's best to visit colleges before your applications are due. That way, you can be confident you'd be happy at any college you're applying to. It's also best to go when the college is in session. You'll see the campus when classes are meeting and day-to-day activities are in full swing. How to Pick a Date. Here are some guidelines on when to ...
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College visit recommendations : r/capstone
Depends on his interests, but you can also tour the stadium, a dorm, maybe check out rec offerings. Gorgas library is nice. Check out the quad. If he's honors, you can get specific visits tailored to that also. Hopefully the tour is during the semester, and not a weekend or the summer, because when all the students are on campus is the best.
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College Football 25 recruiting guide for Dynasty mode
College Football 25 schedule visit and securing a prospect (Image credit: EA) As the season unfolds, the final element of securing your target is the Schedule Visit option.
Welcome to Turnitin Guides
Visit the Student hub area to locate student guidance. For students who access Turnitin via an LMS or VLE, check out the subsection Submitting to Turnitin. Visiting the Administrator hub area to locate administrator guidance and release notes.
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When former Texas Longhorns wide receiver Xavier Worthy was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, many were calling it an ideal fit. After all, Worthy had ...