Questions to Ask Colleges at a College Fair
Strategic questions to ask college representatives at college fairs to gather essential information and make informed decisions about your higher education.
1What makes your college unique compared to other institutions?
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What makes your college unique compared to other institutions?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the college's distinctive features and whether they align with your interests and goals.
2What are the admission requirements and what do you look for in applicants?
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What are the admission requirements and what do you look for in applicants?
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Why this works
Critical for understanding your chances of admission and what you need to focus on to strengthen your application.
3What is the student-to-faculty ratio and average class size?
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What is the student-to-faculty ratio and average class size?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the learning environment and how much individual attention you can expect to receive.
4What academic programs and majors are you most known for?
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What academic programs and majors are you most known for?
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Why this works
Helps you identify if the college offers strong programs in your areas of interest and what they're particularly good at.
5What is the total cost of attendance and what financial aid is available?
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What is the total cost of attendance and what financial aid is available?
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Why this works
Essential for understanding the financial commitment and what support is available to help you afford college.
6What is campus life like and what activities are available?
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What is campus life like and what activities are available?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the social environment and whether you'll find activities and communities that interest you.
7What is the graduation rate and job placement rate for graduates?
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What is the graduation rate and job placement rate for graduates?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the college's track record of student success and career outcomes.
8What support services are available for students?
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What support services are available for students?
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Why this works
Essential for understanding what resources are available to help you succeed academically and personally.
9What is the housing situation and what are the options?
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What is the housing situation and what are the options?
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Why this works
Important for understanding your living arrangements and what housing options are available to you.
10What is the diversity of the student body and campus culture?
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What is the diversity of the student body and campus culture?
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Why this works
Helps you understand if the college environment will be welcoming and inclusive for students like you.
11What research or internship opportunities are available?
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What research or internship opportunities are available?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what hands-on learning experiences and career preparation opportunities exist.
12What is the study abroad program like and what opportunities exist?
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What is the study abroad program like and what opportunities exist?
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Why this works
Helps you understand if you can gain international experience and what global learning opportunities are available.
13What is the alumni network like and how do they support current students?
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What is the alumni network like and how do they support current students?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the long-term value of your degree and what networking opportunities exist.
14What is the campus safety record and what security measures are in place?
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What is the campus safety record and what security measures are in place?
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Why this works
Critical for your safety and peace of mind, especially if you're moving away from home for the first time.
15What is the food situation and what dining options are available?
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What is the food situation and what dining options are available?
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Why this works
Important for understanding your meal options and whether the dining services meet your needs and preferences.
16What is the transportation situation and how do students get around?
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What is the transportation situation and how do students get around?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how you'll navigate the campus and surrounding area, especially if you don't have a car.
17What is the technology infrastructure like and what resources are available?
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What is the technology infrastructure like and what resources are available?
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Why this works
Important for understanding what technology support and resources are available for your academic work.
18What is the climate and weather like throughout the year?
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What is the climate and weather like throughout the year?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the environmental conditions you'll be living in and whether you can adapt to them.
19What is the application deadline and what is the process like?
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What is the application deadline and what is the process like?
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Why this works
Essential for understanding the timeline and requirements for applying to the college.
20What is the best way to learn more about the college and schedule a visit?
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What is the best way to learn more about the college and schedule a visit?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the next steps for gathering more information and experiencing the campus firsthand.
Maximizing College Fair Success
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Before the Fair
Research Colleges in Advance
Come prepared with basic knowledge about colleges you're interested in. This allows you to ask more specific, informed questions and make better use of your time.
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch
Be ready to briefly introduce yourself and share your interests. This helps college representatives give you more targeted information and advice.
Fair Strategy
Priority College List
Common Mistakes
Don't Just Collect Brochures
Focus on having meaningful conversations rather than just gathering materials. The personal interaction is more valuable than printed information.
Don't Ask Obvious Questions
Avoid questions you could easily find on their website. Use your time to ask about things that require personal insight or experience.