20 Questions

Questions to Ask College Reps at College Fairs

Strategic questions to maximize college fair conversations and gather critical information beyond what's available online.

1

What makes your school unique compared to similar institutions?

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Why this works

Tests whether rep knows genuine differentiators beyond marketing talking points.

2

What do students say they wish they knew before choosing your school?

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Why this works

Reveals honest student feedback and potential surprises or disappointments.

3

How accessible are professors outside of class time?

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Why this works

Indicates whether large lectures mean inaccessible faculty or if mentorship is genuinely available.

4

What percentage of freshmen live on campus, and what's the housing guarantee?

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Why this works

Shows campus community strength and whether you'll struggle to find housing after first year.

5

What support services exist for students struggling academically or personally?

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Why this works

Reveals commitment to student success beyond admissions and whether help is available when needed.

6

Can you describe the typical class size for introductory courses in my intended major?

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Why this works

Provides specific rather than average class sizes for courses you'll actually take.

7

What internship or job placement rates do you have for my field of interest?

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Why this works

Tests career preparation quality and whether school delivers on employment promises.

8

How does your school support students in changing majors or exploring interests?

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Why this works

Indicates flexibility and whether switching paths is encouraged or difficult.

9

What financial aid typically looks like for students with my profile?

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Why this works

Gets realistic financial expectations beyond sticker price and generic aid information.

10

How active is campus life on weekends, and what percentage of students stay?

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Why this works

Reveals whether it's a suitcase school or genuine residential community.

11

What research or hands-on learning opportunities exist for undergraduates?

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Why this works

Shows whether undergrads get meaningful experiences or if research is reserved for grad students.

12

Can you connect me with a current student from my area or major?

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Why this works

Tests transparency and willingness to let you hear unfiltered student perspectives.

13

How does your school handle the transition and support for first-year students?

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Why this works

Indicates whether orientation and adjustment support are robust or minimal.

14

What are the most popular student organizations, and how easy is it to get involved?

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Why this works

Shows extracurricular vitality and whether campus life extends beyond academics.

15

How does your school approach diversity and inclusion on campus?

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Why this works

Reveals whether diversity is genuine priority with action or just marketing language.

16

What's the process and timeline for applying, and are there any unique requirements?

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Why this works

Gets application specifics and prevents missing important deadlines or materials.

17

How accessible is the surrounding community, and what do students typically do off-campus?

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Why this works

Indicates location limitations and whether you'll feel isolated or have broader opportunities.

18

What makes students choose your school over competitors they were also considering?

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Why this works

Reveals what actually tips decision-making and most compelling selling points.

19

How has the school changed or improved in recent years?

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Why this works

Shows whether institution is stagnant or actively evolving to better serve students.

20

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

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Why this works

Opens door for rep to share important information you might have missed.

How to Use These Questions

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

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