Campus tour at the University of Notre Dame. The Golden Dome, or Main Building, is perhaps Notre Dame’s most iconic landmark on the University’s 1,200-acre campus in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Peter Ringenberg Photography)
College visits offers more than just a glimpse into campus life—it’s a strategic move that can enhance your application.
“You can find out more about the college from firsthand sources, like your tour guide and other current students,” Rebecca Safier, of PrepScholar, says. “All of these impressions can serve as useful material if you need to have a college interview or write a supplemental essay about why you want to attend. Finally, having your name on the tour rosters can mark what many admissions officers call ‘demonstrated interest.’”
Sarah Wood, an education reporter at US News, recently highlighted a variety of college campus visit options that students can take advantage of—from in-person walking tours to virtual visits.
GUIDED WALKING TOURS
Walking tours are the most common way to get to know a school. These tours are typically led by current students and take prospective applicants through academic buildings, dining halls, and dormitories across campus.
“There’s usually a short information session to provide an overview of the school and its admissions process,” Wood says. “These types of campus visits are typically offered on weekdays and most Saturdays, and may require advance registration because space is often limited.”
VIRTUAL VISITS
In-person walking tours typically require travel expenses, from airline tickets to gas and hotel costs. Alternatively, virtual tours—which became more popular during the Covid-19 pandemic—offer a cost-free option to explore schools.
“Students can still get a feel for a campus without leaving their bedroom,” Wood says. “Virtual tours can be interactive, allowing students to ‘walk’ around campus by clicking arrows, or are videos led by students or faculty members on bikes, skateboards, golf carts or other modes of transportation.”
SELF-GUIDED TOURS
If you prefer to get to know a school at your own pace, a self-guided tour may be the right option for you. Many schools offer resources to help you explore their campus on your own time.
“While some schools post information booklets on their website, providing insight into each building, others offer audio tours that can be downloaded through an app so students can follow along at their leisure,” Wood says.
OVERNIGHT VISITS
Some colleges even offer an overnight option, where applicants can stay at the college dorm overnight to get a real sense of what college life is like.
“At Reed College in Oregon, for instance, current high school seniors – alongside a host student – can stay overnight in one of the residence halls and eat in a dining hall,” Wood says.
Sources: US News, PrepScholar
