Thinking about heading off to university after school? Before you commit to spending the next few years of your life somewhere, it’s a good idea to check it out first. That’s where campus tours come in – they’re your chance to explore university life firsthand and get a feel for where you might be studying. Let’s take a look at what campus tours are, why you might like to go on one, and tips for making the most of your experience.
What is a campus tour?
A campus tour is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a guided walk around a university campus where you can explore the facilities, see where classes are held, and learn about student life. Most universities offer these tours for free, and they’re usually led by current students who can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like to study there.
Why should I go on a campus tour?
There are lots of great reasons to take a campus tour – here are just a few:
Get a feel for the place
Photos and virtual tours are great, but nothing beats actually being there. You’ll get to experience the atmosphere, see how students interact, and decide if you can picture yourself there. Plus, you might discover things that aren’t shown in the glossy brochures – like how long it takes to walk between classes, or where the best coffee spots are.
Ask questions
Your tour guide has been exactly where you are now, so they know what information you need. You can ask them about anything from the workload and social life to the best places to study or hang out between classes. They’ll give you honest answers that you might not get from official university materials.
See the facilities
Universities often have amazing facilities that you can use as a student – libraries, sport centres, study spaces, and social areas. A campus tour lets you see these firsthand and understand what resources will be available to you.
Check out accommodation options
Many tours include a look at student accommodation, which can be super helpful if you’re planning to live on campus. You can see what the rooms look like, check out the common areas, and get a sense of the living arrangements.
Who should go on a campus tour?
Campus tours are great for:
- Students in high school who are starting to think about university
- Anyone considering a particular university or course
- Parents who want to see where their child might be studying
- People who aren’t sure if university is right for them
Lots of institutions offer tours tailored to specific audiences, giving you the chance to find out more information than you might on a general tour.
Tips for making the most of your campus tour
Thinking of attending a tour? Here are some of our top tips to help you get the most out of the experience:
Plan ahead
Book your tour in advance and try to visit when classes are in session so you can see the campus in full swing. Check what the tour covers and how long it takes – some might be just an hour, while others could be half a day.
Come prepared
Write down questions beforehand so you don’t forget anything important. Bring a notebook to jot down things that stand out, and wear comfortable shoes – campuses can be big!
Look beyond the tour
Take some time after the official tour to explore on your own. Visit the facilities, sit in on a class if possible, or just people-watch to get a real sense of campus life.
Visit multiple campuses
If you can, try to visit a few different universities. This will help you compare and contrast, and might even open your eyes to options you hadn’t considered.
Ready to take a tour?
Most universities offer regular campus tours throughout the year, with extra sessions during school holidays. Check university websites for tour schedules and booking information, or ask your school’s careers advisor – they might even be able to organise a group tour for your class.
Choosing a university can be a big decision, and a campus tour can help you make the right choice for your future. Even if you end up deciding that a particular university isn’t for you, that’s still valuable information to have!
Want to learn more? You can find more information about university and other study options on our website here.