College tours are an exciting milestone for high school seniors. This is the perfect opportunity for students to experience campus life firsthand by getting a feel for the atmosphere and envisioning what college will be like.

Whether you’ve already been accepted or are simply exploring potential colleges, be sure to take advantage of local college tours – and/or out-of-state ones, if those are within your means.

It’s important to make the most of this experience by being well-prepared with questions for your tour guide. Here are just a few of the most essential things to ask during your college tour in order to ensure you’re making the most informed decision.

1. Academic Programs

One of the most critical aspects of your college experience is your academic program. During your tour, ask specific questions about the strengths and unique features of programs related to your intended major or major(s).

Even for undecided students, asking questions about specific programs is important, because the requirements for the same major can vary widely between schools. It also might give you a better sense of what you’d be interested in studying.

This information can give you a good sense of the academic support you’ll receive and how you can make the most of your studies.

  • Are there opportunities for research, study abroad, or collaborative projects?

  • What is the student-to-faculty ratio?

  • What is an average class size?

  • Are there any specialized resources or labs available within this program?

2. Housing/Living Arrangements

As a freshman, it’s crucial to understand what dorm situation you’re walking into, especially if you’ve never shared a room with another person before, or if you will be needing special accommodations.

This will help you determine if the college offers the kind of living environment that aligns with your needs.

And even though it’s a while off, you also should ask about housing availability for upperclassmen, so you can start to plan out your 4 years.

  • What are the housing options for freshmen?

    • Are there different choices, like single or double rooms, or residence halls for specific programs?

  • Do the dorms have hall bathrooms or suite bathrooms?

  • Is there off-campus housing assistance through the university?

3. Internships and Job Placement

Internships and job placement rates are a strong indicator of how well a college prepares its students for the professional world.

  • What internship opportunities are available to students in this major?

  • Are there partnerships with local companies, internships-for-credit programs, or resources within the college to help secure these experiences?

  • What are the job placement rate for graduates?

4. Campus Safety

Safety is essential when considering a college. You might consider asking your tour guide – who is usually a student themselves – about the college’s history with campus incidents and how issues are addressed.

Peace of mind is a big factor in creating a positive college experience, so don’t overlook this aspect of your campus visit.

  • What emergency alert systems are on campus?

  • Do the lights on campus stay on all night?

  • Are there escort services for students walking across campus at night?

  • Is there on-campus security?

  • Does the college offer an on-campus shuttle service?

5. Financial Aid: Understanding Your Options

College is a significant investment, and knowing your financial aid options can make a substantial difference. There are many different types of financial aid available, including scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans.

Take advantage of Red Kite to broaden your scholarship search even further. Red Kite connects students with personalized scholarship opportunities and financial aid resources, helping you uncover funds that might not be listed by your college alone.

We also offer comprehensive, step-by-step guidance through every step of applying to scholarships, including our e-books and this blog. With tools like Red Kite, you can ensure you’re making the most of every financial aid opportunity.

  • What type of financial aid is available?

    • What is the application process like?

  • Are there scholarships specifically for students in my program?

College tours are more than just a walk through campus – they’re a way to see your potential future firsthand.

By asking the right questions, you can gather valuable insights that will help you make an informed decision. Remember, this is your future, so take the time to get the answers you need.

Make the most of your visit, and keep these questions top of mind to help you find the college that feels like home.

Be sure to sign up for Red Kite today!

Share this: