<p>I just recently registered to make my first university visit today. I was wondering what some of the best questions to ask would be so that I can start comparing universities when I have made more visits. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>Most college information sessions and tours do a good job detailing the basics - academics, housing, financial aid etc. Are there specific areas you want to know about? For example, undergraduate research opportunities, study abroad programs, internships? You need to fine tune your questions to what you want. Pre-research and then ask questions at the information session.</p>
<p>I agree with the above poster. Also when you go on the tours, take the opportunity to ask the students about their experiences at the college, how their classes are, what they do on weekends and anything else important to you.</p>
<p>If you are touring the public schools in Virginia, ask pointed questions about </p>
<ol>
<li><p>the security/university support of the department you are interested in, especially if it is not a STEM related program. I would go straight to a professor or two in that dept. and ask this so as not to get any misinformation from the admissions office. </p></li>
<li><p>the possibility/reality of potential cuts in funding for these programs as well. (question the same profs if they are willing to disclose) </p></li>
<li><p>the attrition rate, not of students, but of professors in said departments. </p></li>
<li><p>changes in core curriculum class requirements, esp at the liberal arts colleges. </p></li>
<li><p>Question a student’s ability to graduate within four years even if he/she had a change of heart for their major.</p></li>
<li><p>the emphasis by the school being given to online/distance/for profit educational programs.</p></li>
<li><p>Ask about additional fees that are required by certain schools for particular majors. How much increase has there been in these in the last few years? These are not disclosed in the cost of attendance (at most schools) and they add up!!</p></li>
<li><p>Study abroad costs if you are interested. Approximately how much extra per year for recommended programs? Are there options for paying the costs through your school and gaining credit through the school when you decide on a program?</p></li>
<li><p>Career Centers. How active are they? What is the placement rate for graduates from the major you are interested in?</p></li>
<li><p>Internship/Co-op possibilities. Does this school work to help you get into one? Or are you on your own? Where do students from this school intern? Which companies and organizations?</p></li>
</ol>
<p>These are some things that I think are important and will have my student ask based on recent events and having an older sibling about to graduate from college. They may not be suitable suggestions for everyone.</p>
<p>Those are a great list of questions!</p>
<p>I would also add the following:</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Percentage of classes taught by TAs vs. professors</p></li>
<li><p>How many first year students get stuck in triples vs. doubles in the dorms</p></li>
<li><p>How many students go home on the weekends (is it a commuter school or not)</p></li>
<li><p>Is it need-blind or need-aware with financial aid</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Overall, we found that most info sessions and tours presented the school in the best possible light, so didn’t expect to get more than a feel for the place. But that was the most important thing.</p>