How to Optimize University Tours
A campus tour isn’t just a walk across green lawns and past brick buildings. It’s a window into your potential future. Whether you're just starting to build your college list or narrowing it down, college tours help bring your choices to life.
At Momentum College Prep, we believe that intentional, informed visits can make all the difference. Here's how to get the most out of every campus experience—from questions to ask, to what to avoid entirely.
Do Your Research Before You Arrive
Before stepping on campus:
Read up on majors, student organizations, and housing.
Review the school’s admissions stats and mission.
Know what they offer for students like you—international, first-gen, pre-med, etc.
Coming prepared allows you to ask more meaningful questions and make the most of your time on campus.
Questions to Ask the Tour Guide
Your tour guide is usually a current student—use their firsthand experience! Ask:
Academics
What’s the average class size for first-year students?
How accessible are professors outside class?
Are there strong programs in [your intended major]?
Campus Life
What do students do on weekends?
What’s the general vibe—collaborative, competitive, creative?
How easy is it to join clubs or start a new one?
Support
What support systems are available (mental health, tutoring, mentorship)?
How diverse and inclusive is the campus?
How does the school support international students?
Logistics
What’s the housing situation like after freshman year?
Is it easy to get around campus? Into town?
What’s something you wish you’d known before coming here?
Questions to Ask Yourself After the Tour
Encourage deep reflection after each visit. Ask yourself:
Could I see myself living and learning here?
Did I feel welcome? Comfortable?
Were students engaging in ways that I would enjoy?
Does the campus environment support the lifestyle I want?
Can I access the resources I need to succeed?
Take 5–10 minutes post-visit to jot down your thoughts—your future self will thank you during application season.
Take Photos and Notes
After 3–4 visits, the campuses will start to blur together. Keep a dedicated folder on your phone or a Google Doc to track:
First impressions
Favorite spots
Pros and cons
Key takeaways
Bonus tip: Take a photo of the school’s entrance sign to help organize your gallery.
Explore the Surrounding Area
Your experience extends beyond campus. Look into:
Nearby cafes, hospitals, grocery stores
Public transit options
How students spend time off-campus
Safety and walkability
This will help you imagine your day-to-day life beyond academics.
What Not to Do on a College Tour
Even a great visit can be derailed by these missteps:
Don't...
Skip the info session—it's packed with admissions insights.
Be glued to your phone or act disinterested—it reflects poorly.
Ask questions that are easily found on the website.
Dominate the conversation—share space with other prospective students.
Ignore your gut feelings just because the school has a “name.”
Your authentic experience matters more than prestige or rankings.
Final Thoughts
Campus tours are a critical piece of the admissions puzzle. They’re also a chance to gather real data, tune into your instincts, and clarify what you want from your college experience.
At Momentum College Prep, we prep our students with customized visit guides, reflection tools, and curated questions for their campus tours—ensuring every visit is productive and empowering.
Want to Level Up Your College Visits?
Schedule a personalized college tour prep session with Momentum College Prep. We'll help you ask better questions, reflect meaningfully, and find your perfect-fit school.
