Activity Questions to Ask on a College Visit Ask Admissions Representatives General Questions What is the demographic make-up of the most recent class? How many are students of color? What academic assistance resources are available? What kind of academic advising is available to help students choose classes and a major? Does the school help students find internships? What kinds of career services and employment resources are available? What are the four- and six-year graduation rates? What is the academic profile of the average admitted student? ACT/SAT score? GPA/class rank? Is this school test-optional or test-required? If test-optional, what percent of students are submitting test scores? What is the average class size? Are classes taught by teaching assistants (as opposed to professors)? About Student Life What systems are in place for student safety? Is student housing guaranteed for all freshmen students? For all four years? What other housing options are available? What clubs and student activities are available on campus? How do you start a new club? Are freshman allowed to bring vehicles onto campus? Financial Aid Questions What percentage of students receive need-based financial aid? What is the size of the average aid package? What kinds of jobs or Work-Study are available on campus? How can students learn about scholarships, grants, Work-Study, and other forms of financial aid? Ask Students General Questions What do you like best about the school, and what do you think could be improved? Has your advisor been helpful? Do you feel connected to your teachers, and are they accessible/supportive/helpful? Do you find the student body equitable and inclusive? How has the student body responded to acts of racial injustice? How has the college administration responded? What is the climate for students of color (or any group with which you identify)? Is the career center helpful, and how? Have you had an internship, and did the school help you find it? About Student Life Do you feel safe on campus? How do you get to school? Is public transit convenient? Can students park on campus? What is your experience off campus? Do most students live in the dorms or commute? Do many students leave on weekends? What do students do on campus during the weekend? What do students do with their free time (e.g., study, explore the town, participate in clubs, socialize with friends, attend sporting events)? How is the food on campus? Are there many different options? Are there stores and restaurants within walking distance or close to public transportation? What impact do fraternities, sororities, or sports teams have on campus life? Asking questions will help you decide if a college is a good fit. Below are sample questions to ask admissions representatives, tour guides, and students during college visits and at college fairs. Make a copy of this page for each college visit, and bring a notebook to write down the answers. College/University: __________________________________________________ Date: ___________________________ I spoke with: ________________________________________________________ 25 Starting Your College Search
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