Visiting college campuses is an exciting and crucial step in your college search journey. It's your chance to explore the environment, connect with current students, and gather firsthand information about your potential future home. But how can you ensure you're getting the answers you need to make an informed decision? Asking the right questions during your visit can make all the difference. Whether you're curious about academics, campus life, or housing, this guide will help you make the most of your experience.
Questions to Ask Students
Academics & Faculty
What have you learned about this college that you didn’t know before you arrived?
When did you last meet or have a one-on-one conversation with a professor or advisor?
Tell me about a time you connected with a professor.
Do professors give you options for group vs. independent work? Can you share a project that helped you realize you really learned?
Do you have trouble scheduling the classes you like?
Campus Life and Friendships
What leads social life at your university?
How did you meet your closest friends?
What campus events draw the most students?
Is it common to interact with students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, majors, or activities? (You’re trying to understand if the college is “cliquey.”)
What surprised you the most when you moved on campus?
Housing & Food
How did you find your roommate? How’s that working out?
Can you tell me about the dorms? Is it hard to get housing as a freshman or upperclassman?
How is the food, really?
General Recommendations
What’s something you wish someone had told you when you were looking at colleges?
Would you recommend this school to your younger sibling or cousin? Why or why not?
If you could change one thing about this school, what would it be?
Exploring Campus Life and Activities
At the Student Activities Office
What are some of the most popular clubs? Are there new or unique clubs?
How difficult is it to start a new club?
Is there an organization fair, and is it well-attended?
Can you find your culture or interests represented on campus? How does that fit into campus life?
What do students do with their free time and on weekends?
Transportation
How do students get to town, the airport, or the train station?
Can students have cars on campus? What percentage of students bring cars?
If you don’t have a car, is it easy to get around?
Campus Safety and Security
Do students feel safe on campus?
Are there safety markers, like blue-light emergency phones?
Is there a safety app?
Visit the security office, campus police, or admissions office to learn more about campus safety protocols.
Support for Learning and Special Needs
Visit the Office of Learner Services or Disability Services
How do students establish their needs? Does a 504/IEP transfer?
What areas of support are available for academic or personal needs?
Is there a learning support center you can visit?
Are there suggestions for you to consider when researching colleges?
Accommodations
Is early registration available for students with documented disabilities?
Are there testing accommodations, like a testing center?
What additional orientation opportunities are available for students with special needs?
Final Thoughts
Your college visit is an invaluable opportunity to gain authentic, firsthand insights into the schools you’re considering. Use these questions to guide your conversations with students, staff, and administrators. Don’t forget to take notes and reflect on your experiences after the visit to help make your decision easier.
Pro Tip: Print or save this list on your phone to reference during your visit. Have other great questions to ask? Share them in the comments!
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