COLLEGE PLANNING GUIDE
MAKING THE MOST OF CAMPUS TOURS
A Guide to Finding the Right College Fit
What You'll Learn About Campus Tours and College Selection
Choosing the right college is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming decisions a student can make. With countless institutions to consider, it's essential to find a school that aligns with your academic, social, and personal goals. One of the best ways to evaluate whether a college is the right fit is by visiting the campus in person—but simply walking around isn't enough. Knowing what to look for and taking time to reflect on your experience will help you make an informed decision.
Why Campus Tours Matter
A college may look perfect on paper, but the real test comes when you step onto campus and experience it firsthand. A campus tour allows you to:
What to Look for During Your Campus Visit
Does it feel welcoming? Do students seem happy and engaged?
Are the facilities well-maintained? Do the dorms feel comfortable?
What insights can they share about academic programs, campus life, and support services?
What's the student-to-faculty ratio? What kind of career services are available?
Can you see yourself thriving on this campus for the next four years?
Important: Excused Absences for College Visits
Good News for High School Students!
Most high schools allow students to take one to two college visits per year and count them as excused absences—as long as you come back with a signed and dated letter from the institution.
How to Get an Excused Absence for Your Campus Visit
To get the required documentation, you'll need to schedule a guided tour through the school. This can typically be done on the college's website.
Make sure to request a signed and dated verification letter from the admissions office during or after your visit—you'll need this for your high school.
Check with your high school counselor about their specific policy and any forms you need to complete before your visit.
Pro Tip: When scheduling your tour, mention that you need documentation for your high school���most admissions offices are very familiar with this request!
Bonus: Campus visits are also a form of Demonstrated Interest. If your school tracks Demonstrated Interest, this is an important piece of that puzzle and can positively impact your admissions decision!
Before You Go: Define Your Priorities
Before setting foot on any campus, it's important to clearly understand what you value in a college experience. Consider academic interests, social preferences, and career aspirations such as:
Academic Programs
Does the college offer vital programs in your intended major?
Campus Size
Would you thrive in a large university setting or a smaller, more intimate college
Location
Is the college situated in an environment where you will feel comfortable and engaged, whether it's an urban, suburban, or rural setting?
These priorities will help you focus your attention during the tour and ask pertinent questions.
It's More Than Just the Campus
During college tours, it's important to think—it's not just about the college and the campus. There are so many more things than just a college offering the major that you're seeking. It's important to take all of that into consideration as you make your college tour.
Factors to Consider Beyond Academics
Do you like the temperature in the area of the school? Can you handle hot summers or cold winters?
Do you like the size of it? Would you thrive at a large university or prefer a smaller, intimate campus?
Do you like the things that are in the town? Are there restaurants, shops, and entertainment options nearby?
Do you feel safe? What campus security measures are in place? How does the neighborhood feel?
How far is it from home? Can you easily visit family? Do you want to be close or experience somewhere new?
Does it have the clubs, sports, and activities you want? Can you pursue your passions outside the classroom?
Observe the Physical Environment
The physical environment of a college can significantly impact a student's overall experience. As you tour the campus, take note of the following:
Are the academic buildings, libraries, and laboratories well-maintained and equipped with up-to-date technology?
Make sure to check out:
- • The cafeteria and dining options
- • The library and available study resources
- • Study halls and quiet spaces for focused work
- • Communal areas where students gather and socialize
What are the living conditions like? Are the dorms clean, safe, and conducive to studying and socializing?
Does the campus offer a variety of recreational facilities, such as gyms, sports fields, and student centers, to promote a healthy and balanced lifestyle?
Talk to Current Students
Interacting with current students provides valuable insights into the campus culture. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations and ask questions such as:
Understanding what drew current students to the institution can reveal priorities and values that align with yours.
Honest feedback about both strengths and weaknesses helps you get a balanced view of student life.
These conversations can reveal unfiltered perspectives on student life and help you envision yourself as part of the community.
Evaluate Academic Supports and Resources
A supportive academic environment is crucial for student success. During the tour, inquire about:
How accessible are academic advisors, and what kind of support do they offer?
Are there ample resources for students seeking extra help with coursework?
What career counseling and job placement services are available to students and graduates?
If needed, does the college offer services to help with your disability.
Understanding the level of academic support can help determine if the college can meet your student's needs.
Experience the Campus Culture
Every college has a unique culture, which can significantly influence a student's experience. Look for clues about the campus culture by:
Attend a campus event such as a lecture, sports game, or club meeting to observe the community in action.
Peruse the student newspaper and bulletin boards to get a sense of the issues and activities that affect the student body.
Watch how students interact with each other and with faculty. Are they friendly and engaged, or do they seem stressed and isolated?
Explore the Surrounding Area
The area surrounding the campus can play a significant role in a student's overall college experience. During your visit:
Are shops, restaurants, and entertainment options within walking distance or easily accessible?
Research the neighborhood's safety and ask about campus security measures.
How easy is it to get around, both on and off campus? Is public transportation available and reliable?
Track Your Campus Visits
With multiple campus visits, details can start to blend together—that's why it's crucial to take notes immediately after each tour.
To help with this, I've created a Campus Tour Reflection Guide! This guide will:
Provide inspiration on what to look for during your tour.
Offer a structured place to document your thoughts, observations, and feelings.
Help you compare colleges by noting the good, the bad, and the not-so-great aspects of each school.
Helpful Resources for Campus Tours
Explore these additional resources to help you plan your campus tours and learn more about different colleges:
The College Tour
Plan your campus visits with this comprehensive guide to touring colleges. Get tips on scheduling, what to ask, and how to make the most of your visit.
Visit The College Tour →Virtual Campus Tours on YouTube
Watch virtual tours of college campuses from the comfort of your home. Perfect for getting a feel for schools before you visit in person or exploring colleges that are far away.
Watch Virtual Tours →Roadtrip Nation
Discover your path and explore different career journeys. This resource helps you connect your college choice to future career possibilities through real stories and experiences.
Explore Roadtrip Nation →Trust Your Instincts
Your college choice is a big decision—trust your instincts, reflect on your experiences, and choose the place where you can see yourself thriving. Taking notes, asking the right questions, and thinking critically about each visit will help you find the perfect fit.
Happy touring, and best of luck on your college journey! ��
Ready to Build Your College Candidacy?
Campus tours are just one piece of building a strong candidacy for post-secondary success. Schedule a planning session to get personalized guidance, strategic direction, and a step-by-step plan that positions you as a competitive applicant.
Schedule a Planning Session to Build Candidacy
