Questions to Ask at a College Fair
Questions to Ask at a College Fair
Strategic questions to ask at college fairs to gather information and demonstrate interest to admissions representatives.
1What makes your institution unique compared to other colleges?
What makes your institution unique compared to other colleges?
Shows genuine interest and helps you understand what sets this school apart from others you're considering.
2What are your most popular majors and what makes them stand out?
What are your most popular majors and what makes them stand out?
Helps you understand the school's strengths and whether they offer programs that align with your interests.
3What's the typical class size for introductory and upper-level courses?
What's the typical class size for introductory and upper-level courses?
Important for understanding the learning environment and whether you'll have access to professors or be in large lecture halls.
4What opportunities are available for undergraduate research?
What opportunities are available for undergraduate research?
Demonstrates academic curiosity and helps you understand research opportunities that could enhance your education.
5How do you support students who are undecided about their major?
How do you support students who are undecided about their major?
Important if you're unsure about your major - shows how the school helps students explore different academic paths.
6What's the campus culture like and how do students typically spend their time?
What's the campus culture like and how do students typically spend their time?
Helps you assess if the social environment matches your personality and interests.
7What study abroad or international programs do you offer?
What study abroad or international programs do you offer?
Shows interest in global experiences and helps you understand opportunities for cultural and academic enrichment.
8How do you handle financial aid and what types of scholarships are available?
How do you handle financial aid and what types of scholarships are available?
Critical for understanding affordability and what financial support might be available to you.
9What support services are available for academic success and mental health?
What support services are available for academic success and mental health?
Shows you're thinking about your overall well-being and success, not just academics.
10How do you help students with career planning and job placement?
How do you help students with career planning and job placement?
Demonstrates forward-thinking and helps you understand how the school prepares students for life after graduation.
11What internship and co-op opportunities are available?
What internship and co-op opportunities are available?
Shows interest in practical experience and helps you understand how the school connects students with employers.
12How do you support diversity and inclusion on campus?
How do you support diversity and inclusion on campus?
Shows you value inclusive environments and helps you understand how the school supports all students.
13What housing options are available and how do you handle roommate matching?
What housing options are available and how do you handle roommate matching?
Important for understanding living arrangements and how the school helps students find compatible roommates.
14What opportunities are there for leadership development and student organizations?
What opportunities are there for leadership development and student organizations?
Shows interest in personal growth and helps you understand how to get involved in campus life.
15How do you help students transition from high school to college life?
How do you help students transition from high school to college life?
Shows you're thinking about the adjustment period and helps you understand support systems for new students.
16What's the retention rate and graduation rate for students?
What's the retention rate and graduation rate for students?
Provides insight into student success and satisfaction with the academic program.
17How do you support students with learning differences or disabilities?
How do you support students with learning differences or disabilities?
Important if you have specific learning needs - shows how the school accommodates different learning styles.
18What opportunities are available for community service and civic engagement?
What opportunities are available for community service and civic engagement?
Demonstrates interest in giving back and helps you understand how the school encourages community involvement.
19How do you help students prepare for graduate school or professional programs?
How do you help students prepare for graduate school or professional programs?
Shows long-term thinking and helps you understand how the school prepares students for advanced education.
20What's the best way to learn more about your institution and schedule a campus visit?
What's the best way to learn more about your institution and schedule a campus visit?
Shows continued interest and helps you understand next steps for further exploration.
Want to learn more?
Maximizing Your College Fair Experience
Want to learn more?
Maximizing Your College Fair Experience
How to Prepare for College Fairs
Research Schools in Advance
Look up schools that will be at the fair and learn about their programs, requirements, and unique features.
Prepare Your Questions
Write down specific questions for each school you're interested in, focusing on what matters most to you.
Bring Necessary Materials
Bring copies of your transcript, resume, and any other materials that might be helpful for admissions representatives.
Dress Appropriately
Dress professionally but comfortably, as you'll be walking around and standing for extended periods.
How to Network Effectively
Make a Good First Impression
Introduce yourself clearly, maintain eye contact, and show genuine interest in what they have to say.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Avoid generic questions that could apply to any school. Ask about specific programs, opportunities, or aspects unique to their institution.
Take Notes
Write down important information and follow up with additional questions if needed. This shows engagement and helps you remember details.
Exchange Contact Information
Get business cards or contact information from representatives you want to follow up with later.
After the College Fair
Send Thank You Emails
Follow up with representatives you spoke with, thanking them for their time and referencing specific points from your conversation.
Request Additional Information
Ask for brochures, application materials, or other information that wasn't available at the fair.
Schedule Campus Visits
If you're interested in a school, schedule a campus visit to get a better feel for the institution.
Keep Track of Your Interactions
Maintain a record of which schools you spoke with, what you learned, and any follow-up actions needed.