Tips for Effective College Visits in the Age of COVID-19

Finding the right fit between a student and university or college isn’t always easy, and the campus visit is a huge part of the research process.

Unfortunately, the global COVID-19 pandemic has turned campus visits into a challenge for everybody, especially international students.

What’s Different About Campus Visits Right Now?

While some schools are reopening for in-person classes, others are still largely or partially conducting their instruction online. Similarly, many schools have eliminated or sharply restricted in-person campus tours to better adhere to safety guidelines.

International students are likely to face even more unique issues because of the necessity to quarantine both before in-person campus visits and once they return home. Fortunately, there are some ways to get a good feel for a campus despite the hurdles posed by the pandemic.

Make Use of Technology to Avoid In-Person Visits

Schools have adapted to the ongoing limitations by improving the information students and their families can get about a campus through digital means. It’s quite possible to get a good feel for a school’s atmosphere without ever setting foot on the campus.

For the best online visit experience:

• Look for virtual campus tours offered by the schools of your choice and take them. Some schools even offer guided, interactive tours, so that students can get a personalized experience.
• Visit the school’s social media sites and interact with current students, alumni and administrators. Take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions about the school and student experiences to get personal takes from others.
• Research the environment around the school, as well. Look up the town or city where the school resides to learn more about local attractions, the type of international communities that are around and what people love (or dislike) about the area.
• Look at college review sites for an unfiltered take on the school. Sites like RateMyProfessor and Uniqo can help prospective students see both the positive and negative qualities a school may have.

Finally, don’t be shy about reaching out directly to a school’s Admissions Department. Ask to be put in touch with a current international student or alumni who is willing to share their experiences.

Prepare Ahead for the Challenges of an In-Person Campus Visit

Once a student has decided that a school might be a good fit, they may still want to arrange for an in-person campus visit. Because of the pandemic, it’s essential to work closely with school administrators to make sure that the trip goes well.

Some of the issues that will need to be addressed include:

• What documentation needs to be provided with regard to either COVID testing or inoculation prior to a visit
• Whether or not local authorities or the school requires a student to quarantine after their arrival (and for how long)
• Where the student will wait out their quarantine before the in-person visit and what support they can expect from the school

Ultimately, students need to be prepared to make the most of any in-person campus visits they do make, and that may mean having a list of questions ready for their guide. They also need to manage their expectations so that they’re not disappointed by the limited interactions they may have with administrators and other students due to social distancing requirements.