Campus Visit Checklist: Make the Most of Your Trip

Visiting a college is an exciting step when narrowing down your options, but there is more to a college campus than meets the eye. Use this helpful checklist to gather all the information you need to compare your top choices and make an informed decision: 

• Location and campus: Consider where the college is located and the campus itself. Is it in a rural or urban area? Is the campus large or small? Do you feel comfortable and safe on campus and the surrounding area?  

• Academics: Learn about the academic programs offered. Talk to faculty and students in the departments that interest you to get a sense of the curriculum and academic environment.  

• Student life: Explore the campus and surrounding area to get a sense of what it would be like as a student. You can learn about campus culture by attending a school event or class and talking to current students about extracurricular activities. 

• Facilities: Check out the college’s facilities, including the library, laboratories, athletic facilities, and housing options. Are they modern and well-maintained?  

• Cost and financial aid: How much will it cost to attend the school? Will you apply for financial aid? Talk to a financial aid officer to discuss the cost and learn about the college’s scholarship and financial aid opportunities.  

• Admissions: If possible, schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor to learn about the college’s admission process and requirements. 

• Socialization: What is the school’s social scene like? Are there a variety of clubs, social events, and activities? Are the students friendly?  

• Size: Is the school population small, medium, or large? Do you prefer a smaller, more intimate setting or a larger, more diverse one?  

• Fit: Do you feel like you would fit in at the school? Can you see yourself living and learning there for four years?  

• Your gut feeling: Trust your instincts and think about how you feel on the campus. Can you see yourself attending this college and being happy here?  

While a college’s website can provide a lot of helpful information about what it would be like as a student, there’s nothing quite like visiting the campus to get a feel for it yourself. Take time to explore the campus, immerse yourself in student activities, and talk with students, faculty, and staff. This will help you get a full picture of life on campus, giving you a better sense of which college is the best fit for you. 

For more resources and information on preparing for college, visit the K12 College Prep Center.