Important Questions for Parents to Ask on College Tours

As an important part of the college admissions process, parents guide and support their students through the admission process. While searching for colleges, students and parents often attend college tours and information sessions together. These tours are a great way for students to narrow down the criteria they’re looking for in a university, meet current students, and get a tangible feel for the school they are touring. An essential part of a college visit is asking questions! Tour guides and admissions officers have a wealth of knowledge about their university, and they can answer all questions you may have about the school and admissions. However, it’s important to ask the right questions. Brainstorming questions ahead of time ensures you and your student won’t forget any important details.

The main focus of attending a college or university is to earn a degree, which puts academics at the center of the college experience. Questions about classes, professors, and academic life are essential. Some example questions to ask include: Does this school offer my student’s desired major? When do students declare a major? What does the process for switching majors look like? Do many students double major or add a minor? How many credits do students typically take per semester? What does the registration process look like? Does my student’s major require a thesis or capstone project? Are most classes taught by professors or TAs? What is the average class size? Do students typically study abroad? What does the academic calendar look like? Does the university offer summer classes or a J-term? What type of academic support is available if a student is struggling?

Your tour guide, a current student at the university, can provide great insight into life as a student. Asking them about their experience can help you and your student gauge the social environment at the particular school. Questions to ask your tour guide about the school and their experience could include: Why did you choose this university? What is your favorite place on campus? Where do you seek support if you’re struggling? What is one thing you would change about your school? Does the university offer (selected sport/club/activity)? Where do you spend time studying? How do you spend your weekends? Do many students participate in Greek life? How easy is it to get off campus and engage with the local community?

Though parents may feel very eager to ask questions on tours, it’s important to encourage your student to ask questions as well. They are touring a place where they could spend 2 to 4 or more years as part of the community, and it’s important they ask any questions that may be on their mind. Many tour guides will give students the opportunity to ask questions one on one at the end of the tour, making it easier to ask student-specific questions and hear your tour guide’s personal experiences. Staying through the end of the tour and asking personal questions also takes pressure off parents and students, who may feel uncomfortable asking questions in a large group setting. Additionally, researching the school ahead of time to answer basic questions about academics and campus life can help you and your student ask more detailed questions. This will provide more valuable information that can help a student decide how they feel about a school. Finally, a general piece of advice: encourage your student to write down their insights and answers to their questions immediately after their college tour. Having a detailed memory of their tour can help immensely when it comes time to write “why this school” essays and make important decisions. Most of all, enjoy your tour and enjoy learning more about a school that could become your student’s home!