Introduction
A college campus visit is one of the most important steps in choosing where to apply and, eventually, where to attend. Visiting a college in person gives prospective students the chance to explore the environment, meet current students and faculty, evaluate facilities, and determine if the school is a good fit. To make the most of your time on campus, preparation is key. This article offers a step-by-step guide to help students and families plan and get the most out of college campus visits and tours.
1. Why Campus Visits Matter
Campus visits offer a real-world experience that goes beyond brochures and websites. You can:
- Get a feel for the college environment
- See classrooms, dorms, libraries, and dining halls
- Ask questions to current students and staff
- Assess campus safety and accessibility
- Evaluate whether the campus culture fits your personality and goals
According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), campus visits significantly influence students’ final decisions.
2. Start Early and Plan Strategically
The ideal time to start visiting campuses is during your junior year of high school or early in your senior year, before application deadlines.
Create a List of Colleges to Visit
Start with a mix of:
- Reach schools (competitive to get into)
- Match schools (reasonable chance of admission)
- Safety schools (likely to be accepted)
Prioritize schools you’re seriously considering. If travel is a constraint, take virtual tours and save in-person visits for your top choices.
3. Schedule Official Campus Tours
Colleges typically offer guided tours led by student ambassadors and information sessions with admissions officers.
How to Schedule
- Visit the college’s official admissions website.
- Register for a tour and info session—some fill up quickly.
- Confirm your visit in advance and check for parking info or visitor instructions.
🔗 Example: University of Michigan Visit Info
Many universities also offer specialized tours for honors programs, STEM departments, or specific majors.
Conclusion
Campus visits are an invaluable part of the college selection process. They help you go beyond rankings and brochures to get a true sense of what life at each university is like. By planning ahead, preparing questions, exploring beyond the tour, and reflecting afterward, you’ll be better equipped to choose a college where you can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
References
- National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). (2024). Campus Visit Tips for Students and Parents.
https://www.nacacnet.org/news–publications/Press-Room/college-visits/ - College Board. (2024). Campus Visit Checklist.
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/find-colleges/campus-visit-guide/campus-visit-checklist - U.S. News & World Report. (2024). How to Get the Most Out of a College Visit.
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles - Princeton Review. (2024). Planning Your College Visit.
https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/college-visit - University of Michigan. (2024). Campus Tours and Events.
https://admissions.umich.edu/explore/visit