20 Questions

Good Questions to Ask Admissions Counselors

Essential questions to ask admissions counselors to understand the application process, requirements, and make informed decisions about your educational future.

1

What are the key requirements for admission to this program?

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Why this works

Provides a clear understanding of what you need to meet to be considered for admission.

2

What is the application process and what are the important deadlines?

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Why this works

Helps you understand the complete application process and ensures you don't miss critical deadlines.

3

What are the most important factors in the admissions decision?

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Why this works

Reveals what the admissions committee values most and how you can strengthen your application.

4

What are the opportunities for financial aid and scholarships?

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Why this works

Important for understanding funding options and how to access financial support for your education.

5

What is the typical profile of a successful applicant?

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Why this works

Provides insight into what makes a strong candidate and helps you assess your fit.

6

What are the opportunities for academic and career support?

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Why this works

Shows what resources are available to help you succeed academically and professionally.

7

What is the student experience like and what support is available?

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Why this works

Helps you understand what to expect as a student and what support systems are in place.

8

What are the opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on experience?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for practical learning and professional development.

9

What is the faculty-to-student ratio and class size?

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Why this works

Important for understanding the learning environment and level of individual attention you'll receive.

10

What are the opportunities for study abroad and international experiences?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for global learning and cultural exchange.

11

What is the career placement rate and what support is available for job placement?

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Why this works

Shows the program's success in helping students find employment and what career services are available.

12

What are the opportunities for networking and professional development?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for building professional connections and continuing to learn and grow.

13

What is the program's approach to diversity and inclusion?

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Why this works

Shows the program's values and commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment.

14

What are the opportunities for leadership and extracurricular involvement?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for developing leadership skills and engaging in activities beyond academics.

15

What is the program's approach to technology and innovation?

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Why this works

Shows the program's commitment to staying current with technology and preparing students for the future.

16

What are the opportunities for specialization and concentration?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for developing expertise in particular areas of study.

17

What is the program's approach to student success and retention?

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Why this works

Shows how the program supports student success and what resources are available for struggling students.

18

What are the opportunities for graduate school and advanced degrees?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for continuing education and advanced degree programs.

19

What is the program's approach to experiential learning and practical application?

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Why this works

Shows how the program connects theory to practice and prepares students for real-world application.

20

What questions should I be asking that I haven't thought of?

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Why this works

Allows the admissions counselor to provide additional important information you might not have considered.

Making the Most of Your Admissions Counselor Meeting

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

Best Practices for Admissions Counselor Conversations

Come Prepared

Research the program and come with specific questions about your interests and goals.

Be Honest About Your Situation

Share your academic background, interests, and concerns to get the most relevant guidance.

Take Notes

Write down important information and contact details for future reference.

Admissions Counselor Topics

Application and Requirements

1
What are the key requirements for admission?
2
What is the application process?
3
What are the most important factors in the admissions decision?

Program and Experience

1
What is the student experience like?
2
What are the opportunities for research and internships?
3
What is the career placement rate?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don't Focus Only on Requirements

Ask about the student experience, support systems, and opportunities beyond just admission requirements.

Avoid Generic Questions

Ask specific questions about the program and your interests rather than general questions.

Don't Ignore Your Gut Feelings

Pay attention to how you feel about the program and whether it aligns with your goals and values.

Conversation Templates

The Application Explorer

1
Step 1: Start with: 'What are the key requirements for admission?'
2
Step 2: Follow with: 'What is the application process?'
3
Step 3: Explore: 'What are the most important factors in the admissions decision?'

The Experience Seeker

1
Step 1: Ask: 'What is the student experience like?'
2
Step 2: Listen: 'What are the opportunities for research and internships?'
3
Step 3: Connect: 'What is the career placement rate?'

Further Reading

College Application and Admissions Process
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Academic and Career Support Services
Making Informed Educational Decisions

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