University Open Days: What to Ask

9. What are the accommodation options for first-year students?

10. How much does university accommodation cost?

11. How far from the main university buildings are the rooms?

12. How far is the campus from the nearest shops/town/bars?

13. What sports and other recreational facilities does the university have? Are these free to use?

14. What student clubs can you get involved with?

15. How much are students advised to budget per term/year?

16. What are the main deadlines you need to know about?

17. What are the academic requirements for the course you’re interested in?

18. What other qualities/experience is it desirable for applicants to have?

19. Do you need to sit any entrance exams, or submit any additional documents?

20. When can you expect the university to make a decision?

See also: How to check out a university if you can’t visit in person >

21. What are the fees for international students?

22. Are international students eligible for any scholarships or financial aid?

23. Are international students guaranteed a place in university accommodation?

24. What support services are available for international students?

25. How many international students are currently at the university?

• Make sure you get a list of useful contacts (this may be in the university prospectus). You’re bound to have some questions left over, so make sure you know who to call/email when that happens!
• Try to see as much of the university campus as you can – especially the department you’re applying to, student accommodation, and shared areas such as libraries, canteens and outdoor relaxation grounds.
• Try and speak to some current students, both about the course and about student life in general. For example, ask what they usually do at the weekends, whether they think the course is challenging, and why they picked the university.