Questions To Ask During University Open Day

A university open day is the best opportunity to experience campus life and gain insights beyond brochures, but to avoid feeling overwhelmed, you should attend prepared with clear questions about the information you want to learn.

1. Ask About The Courses

You would want to learn as much as possible about the courses the university offers because you’ll be spending the next few years at that institution. Start with the questions below to ensure that you are on the right path.

• What are the basic requirements for the course?

• How do I apply for this course?

• Can I apply for more than one course?

• Who awards this qualification?

• What subjects do you offer in this curriculum?

• What’s the assessment method for the course?

• Is hands-on training such as practicals or an internship part of this programme?

• Is there an opportunity to study abroad?

• What are the qualifications of the lecturers in this course?

• Are lecturers and professors available if I have any questions?

• What if I decide to change course?

• How many hours a week am I expected to attend class?

2. Ask If Your Budget Fits The Fees

It is also crucial to discuss costs with the finance department as you devise a plan to fund your education.

You could speak with current students who can give you a clear idea on how to manage your finances while in university.

Also, find out if there are additional costs that come with the course, such as study trips, workshops, or conferences.

• How much are the course fees?

• What other expenses should I expect?

• How much would I need to survive in university in terms of everyday costs?

• Do students work part-time? If yes, what jobs are available for part-time students?

• What bursaries, scholarships, or fee waivers are there, and how doI apply?

3. Ask About Career Prospects

Studying to acquire a diploma/degree is a commitment of time and money. Therefore, it is essential to know what it can offer you in the long term.

After studying for years at the university, you want some assurance that you can find a job in your field. Here are some questions you should ask about future job prospects.

• What’s the employability record of the graduates?

• What has life been like for previous students who graduated?

• How many students move on to postgraduate studies?

• What career guidance services are there?

• Do you help place students for internships?

• Are networking or career fairs available for the students?

4. Ask About Student Life And Campus Culture

On the open day, find someone who’s taking the same course you’re interested in and ask them for their opinion about the course, university, etc.

Another advantage of this is that you can make friends, be it with those who are already at the university or prospective students so that you won’t feel quite as awkward on your first day.

• What are the best and worst things about university life?

• How do you find the course so far?

• What are the teaching, facilities, support, and field trips like?

• Are some hostels better than others?

• What advice would you give a newbie?

• What’s the food like on campus and the surrounding areas?

• What do students typically do in the evenings and during their free time?

5. Ask About Accommodation

It shouldn’t be all about what you’re studying; it’s also about where you live and rest when you’re not studying. It is vital to ask what all your options are regarding accommodation for those from out of town.

Ask about the price range, whether meals are included, whether some are shared bathrooms, and their distance from the campus.

• Is hostel accommodation guaranteed for first-year students?

• What accommodation is available off campus?

• How far are the hostels from the classroom buildings?

• How much does the accommodation cost?

• How big are the rooms?

• What security measures are there?

• Do most students stay on campus during weekends?

• Where can I live in years two and three?

• What facilities are there at the hostel?

6. Ask About Facilities And Activities

The university’s facilities will enhance your student experience, enabling you to make the most of your studies.

Find out if the university has a well-stocked library, safe student halls, a sports centre with professional equipment, a café serving coffee for your pre-lecture caffeine runs, etc.

• Tell me about the facilities on campus.

• Where do students do their grocery and toiletry shopping?

• How do students get around on campus?

• Are there quiet spaces for studying?

• How involved are students in extracurricular activities?

• Which activities are most popular?

• Are there any counselling or student support services available on campus?

7. The Bottom Line

Open Days are an excellent opportunity to get an honest account of everything you need to know, from info about the course and lecturers to the facilities and accommodation. The above questions are a guide on the crucial stuff to ask and can change to suit your needs.

Check out our many guides you can read to get you ready to choose the right education pathway!