It’s almost time for summer break for the Class of ’27, and that means it’s time for college visits!

I’m sure your student is excited about feeling the campus vibes and fantasizing about the amenities, but remember, these visits are about going beyond dorm life so you can your child can learn about the programs each institution offers, because this is likely the BIGGEST investment you will make in your child’s future for the next four years and beyond.

To truly get the most out of each visit, preparation and asking the right questions are key. Read below to learn all you need to know about exploring academics and campus life.

Building a Great College List

The College Visit Scorecard

You and your child likely have a list of dream schools, but how deeply have you compared the schools to one another? Have you considered schools that might not be as “dreamy” but will still offer the same quality of education at a lower price?

Before picking schools to visit, do some initial research into major programs at each school so you can move beyond the general “nickel tour” and dig deeper during your visit. This focus prevents getting swayed solely by impressive facilities and helps you ask targeted questions.

Also, make a checklist that evaluates the financial feasibility, the academics, and, of course, the amenities of each school. Our College Visit Scorecard will help you do thias! It’s a data-driven checklist that lets you compare schools side-by-side, removing the emotional bias of a “cool” campus.

Look Beyond the Sticker Price Before Your Visit

So many students end up going to colleges their families can’t afford, and spend the rest of their lives paying off student loans! Don’t let that be you. Before you fall in love with a campus, find out ALL of the costs you will incur. Look past the sticker price to identify “hidden” expenses, such as major-specific lab fees, parking costs, and the true price of off-campus housing for upperclassmen.

It’s of equal importance to find out how much financial aid and scholarship money each school will give your student. A tool like the FREE College Money Report™ will let you compare your schools side-by-side to find out how much aid your student is eligible for, the differences between competitive and guaranteed aid, and tell you what scholarships are renewable for all four years.

There’s no sense in visiting a school you can’t afford! Before you go, learn all the key financial questions to ask before and during your college visit.

The Keys to a Successful and Productive College Visit

Making the Most of the Campus Experience

While on campus, go beyond the basics:

• Schedule Official Visits: Don’t just wander around. Sign up for the official tour and information sessions to get a structured overview and ensure you see key parts of the campus.
• Visit Your Department: Make a point to visit the specific academic department(s) you’re interested in. Ask about their programs, teaching styles, and what makes them unique.
• Talk to People: If possible, schedule time to talk with a professor in your potential field of study. Ask about their research, class structure, and student opportunities. Chat with current students (perhaps your tour guide or others you encounter) about their real experiences.
• Inquire About Outcomes: Ask pointed questions about academic outcomes. What research opportunities are available for undergraduates? What internships or co-op programs does the department facilitate? How successful are graduates in finding jobs in their field?
• Consider Honors Programs: If you’re looking at a large university but prefer a smaller community feel, investigate their honors program. These often create a close-knit cohort and offer specialized academic opportunities within the larger university setting.

Digging Into the Finances: Critical Questions to Ask

Understanding the financial commitment is just as important as liking the campus. Be prepared to ask:

• What’s the Total Cost? Look beyond tuition, room, and board. Ask about mandatory fees (student activity, technology, health services), typical costs for books and supplies, and potential extra costs like lab or computer fees specific to your major. Using our FREE College Money Report tool is a great way to calculate total cost!
• What are Transportation & Living Costs?
  • Will you have a car? Factor in parking permits, gas, and maintenance.
  • How far is the campus from home? Consider the cost and logistics of travel for breaks or visits.
  • What’s the typical cost of off-campus housing? Many students move off-campus after the first or second year, so get a sense of local rent prices for future planning.
• What’s the Financial Aid Picture?
  • Merit Aid: How does the school award merit-based scholarships (based on grades, test scores, talent, leadership)? Is there a clear grid (e.g., certain GPA + SAT/ACT = specific award amount), or is it more competitive (e.g., applying for a limited number of scholarships)? Crucially, does the merit aid last for all four years, or does it expire?
  • Need-Based Aid: Estimate your Student Aid Index (SAI) using this online calculator before your visit. Ask the college: What percentage of demonstrated financial need does the school typically meet?
  • How is Need Met? This is vital. When a school says they meet your need, ask how. Is it primarily through “gift aid” (grants, scholarships that don’t need repayment) or “self-help” aid (student loans, work-study)? Understand the breakdown.
  • Average Debt: What is the average student loan debt for graduates from this institution? This gives insight into affordability and the generosity of their aid packages.
• What are the Graduation Rates?
  • What percentage of students graduate in 4 years? What about 5 years?
  • Remember, an extra year adds at least 25% to the total cost (tuition, fees, living expenses) and represents a year of lost potential income. Furthermore, many scholarships expire after 4 years, making a fifth year potentially much more expensive..

Make an Informed Decision

With some advanced preparation, deep engagement with academic departments, and detailed financial questions, you can gather the comprehensive information needed to compare schools effectively instead of falling in love with the first campus you see. Knowing the answers to these questions before you have to make a decision empowers you to choose a college that is not only a great academic and social fit but also a sound financial investment in your future.

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Post updated April 2026