20 Questions

Best Questions to Ask on a College Tour

Essential questions to ask during college tours to evaluate academics, campus life, support services, and determine if the school is the right fit for your educational goals.

1

What are the academic requirements for my intended major and what courses are required?

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Why this works

Helps you understand the academic rigor and requirements for your chosen field, ensuring the program aligns with your career goals and interests.

2

What are the class sizes and what is the student-to-faculty ratio?

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Why this works

Reveals the level of individual attention you'll receive and helps you understand whether you'll have access to professors and personalized learning.

3

What are the research opportunities available for undergraduate students?

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Why this works

Shows you the hands-on learning opportunities and how you can gain practical experience in your field of study.

4

What are the internship and career placement services available?

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Why this works

Reveals the support you'll receive for finding internships and jobs, which is crucial for building your resume and career prospects.

5

What are the housing options and what is the cost of living on campus?

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Why this works

Shows you the living arrangements available and helps you understand the total cost of attendance, including housing and meal plans.

6

What are the financial aid and scholarship opportunities available?

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Why this works

Reveals the financial support available and helps you understand how to make college more affordable through aid and scholarships.

7

What are the student support services available, including tutoring and counseling?

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Why this works

Shows you the academic and emotional support available, ensuring you'll have resources to help you succeed and manage challenges.

8

What are the campus safety measures and what is the crime rate?

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Why this works

Reveals the security measures in place and helps you understand how safe you'll be on campus, which is crucial for your well-being.

9

What are the extracurricular activities and clubs available?

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Why this works

Shows you the opportunities for involvement outside the classroom and helps you understand how to build a well-rounded college experience.

10

What are the study abroad and exchange program opportunities?

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Why this works

Reveals the international learning opportunities available and helps you understand how to gain global experience during your education.

11

What are the technology resources and computer labs available?

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Why this works

Shows you the technological support available and helps you understand what resources you'll have access to for your studies.

12

What are the library and research facilities like?

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Why this works

Reveals the academic resources available and helps you understand what support you'll have for research and studying.

13

What are the dining options and meal plans available?

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Why this works

Shows you the food options available and helps you understand the dining arrangements and whether they meet your dietary needs.

14

What are the transportation options and how easy is it to get around campus?

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Why this works

Reveals the mobility options available and helps you understand how easy it is to navigate campus and the surrounding area.

15

What are the health and wellness services available?

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Why this works

Shows you the healthcare and wellness support available and helps you understand what resources you'll have for maintaining your health.

16

What are the career services and job placement rates for graduates?

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Why this works

Reveals the career support available and helps you understand the employment outcomes for graduates in your field of study.

17

What are the diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus?

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Why this works

Shows you the school's commitment to diversity and helps you understand whether you'll feel welcome and supported as a diverse student.

18

What are the academic advising and mentoring programs available?

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Why this works

Reveals the guidance and support available for academic planning and helps you understand how you'll be supported in your educational journey.

19

What are the graduation rates and what percentage of students complete their degree?

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Why this works

Shows you the school's success in helping students graduate and helps you understand the likelihood of completing your degree on time.

20

What are the alumni networks and how do they support current students?

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Why this works

Reveals the professional networks available and helps you understand how alumni can support your career development and job search.

How to Make the Most of Your College Tour

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Best Practices

Focus on Your Academic Goals

Ask questions that help you understand the academic programs and requirements. Look for schools that align with your career goals and learning style.

Assess Campus Life and Support

Ask about student life, support services, and campus resources. Look for schools that provide the support you need to succeed academically and personally.

Consider Financial and Practical Factors

Ask about costs, financial aid, and practical considerations. Make sure you understand the total cost of attendance and what support is available.

Question Sequences

The Academic Assessment Series

1
What are the academic requirements for my major?
2
What are the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratio?
3
What are the research opportunities available?
4
What are the internship and career placement services?

The Campus Life Series

1
What are the housing options and costs?
2
What are the student support services available?
3
What are the extracurricular activities and clubs?
4
What are the campus safety measures?

Common Pitfalls

Don't Focus Only on Academics

While academics are important, also consider campus life, support services, and whether you'll feel comfortable and supported in the environment.

Don't Ignore Financial Considerations

Ask about costs, financial aid, and scholarships. Make sure you understand the total cost of attendance and what support is available.

Don't Overlook Support Services

Ask about academic support, counseling, and other services. These resources are crucial for your success and well-being during college.

Tour Templates

The Academic Assessment Tour

1
Step 1: Ask about academic requirements and programs
2
Step 2: Inquire about class sizes and faculty ratios
3
Step 3: Discuss research and internship opportunities
4
Step 4: Explore career services and job placement
5
Step 5: Ask about academic advising and mentoring

The Campus Life Evaluation

1
Step 1: Ask about housing and living arrangements
2
Step 2: Inquire about student support services
3
Step 3: Discuss extracurricular activities and clubs
4
Step 4: Explore campus safety and security
5
Step 5: Ask about diversity and inclusion initiatives

Further Reading

"The College Search Guide" by Princeton Review
"Fiske Guide to Colleges" by Edward Fiske
"The Complete Guide to College Admissions" by Princeton Review
College search and selection resources

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