Part 3: What to Expect and How to Prepare: The Ultimate College Tour

Once you’ve successfully arranged your spring break college visits, it’s time to focus on how to get the most out of each tour. Beyond just the general campus tour, you’ll want to dive deeper into specific programs that interest you.

Students embarking on a college tour

Expect a Standard Tour (with Time for Questions)

A typical college tour lasts about an hour and is often led by a current student or an admissions representative. During the tour, you’ll visit key areas of campus—such as the student center, dorms, and classrooms—while getting a feel for the overall atmosphere of the college.

• Ask questions during the tour: Take note of what’s important to you (e.g., class size, study abroad options, or student life), and be sure to ask your guide about those topics. It’s helpful to prepare a few questions in advance, such as:

  • How large are the average class sizes?

  • What’s the student-to-faculty ratio?

  • What are the most popular campus clubs or organizations?

Add a Specific Program Tour

In addition to the general tour, make sure you take a closer look at specific programs or departments that align with your academic and career interests. Whether you’re interested in engineering, art, business, or the sciences, visiting the specific building or lab where your desired program is located can give you a better sense of the academic culture and facilities.

• Schedule a department tour: Some schools offer tours specific to certain programs. Be sure to ask when arranging your tour, as these are often scheduled separately from general campus tours.

• Meet with a faculty member: If possible, see if you can meet with

  
  

  a faculty member or department head to discuss the program in more detail. This gives you an opportunity to ask questions specific to your academic interests.

Take Notes and Snap Photos

You’ll likely visit several campuses, so keeping track of each school’s features can be tricky. Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down your impressions after each visit. Take pictures of the things you find interesting or areas you’d like to revisit later.