Do parents go on college tours with their kids?

It is common and even expected that parents be part of visits to their children's prospective colleges. After all, someone needs to book the trip, be a chaperone for overnight visits and more.

Do parents go with you to college tours?

It is always good to have someone along on a college visit because they might hear or see things that you miss. A parent is a good choice, particularly if they are paying for college. Caution: if you are visiting colleges with close friends, don't let their opinions affect how you feel about a school.

How often should parents visit in college?

Limit your visits to not more than one per month and, when you do visit, ask what they would like to do. Ensure that you make plans beforehand instead of just dropping by for a visit. This shows that you respect their new lifestyle as you would any other adult who may have plans.

What should parents wear on a college tour?

College admission consultants encourage parents to wear an outfit they feel comfortable in but also with style. The same advice follows for parents: do not wear any appeal with any inappropriate graphic images, curse words, or any word or image that may be offensive (including any political statements).

What age is best for college tours?

Generally, it's recommended to start visiting colleges during your junior or senior year of high school.

Parents’ Role In Their Student’s College Tours

How long do college tours usually last?

How long are college tours? Most college tours will take between 60 and 90 minutes, but some are longer, especially personalized tours. The more time you spend on campus, the more you can experience the “vibe” and discover if it's right for you.

Is college touring worth it?

Yes, it's worth your time to take collegiate trips. Looking at a college's website and reading pamphlets can only provide you with limited information. When you visit a college, you get to absorb the atmosphere on campus and hear firsthand impressions from the students themselves.

What not to wear on a college tour?

Jeans are fine, as are t-shirts, but be wary of anything with a slogan or image that might be offensive. Even if a curse word or scantily clad person doesn't bother you, it's probably not the right fit for your first impression! You don't have to dress fancy, but do put in a little bit of effort.

Can you wear jeans to a college tour?

If it is a typical college visit, a pair of jeans and a T-shirt are fine for a casual college visit. Most simple college tours are less than a day and can range from two to eight hours of activities. You'll participate in seminars, building tours, and Q&A sessions with departments like financial aid and admissions.

Should I bring a backpack to a college tour?

You may also bring one personal item. We suggest a backpack. You will use your backpack during touring days for water, sunscreen, etc. All liquids need to be stored in a 1 quart, clear, Ziploc bag.

Should I visit my child at college?

You should only visit your child at college if you are invited to come, are attending Parents' Weekend, or are just “passing through” after a trip for other reasons. The only exception is if you go to your kid's athletic competitions, or music/dance/drama performances.

How often should I visit my son in college?

Don't Visit Too Often

Perhaps a short visit during parents weekend is enough. For most, I'd caution against visiting once a month or more. Visiting that often will make it harder for your kid to let go and fully integrate into their college experience. Of course, there are definitely exceptions.

Do college visits increase chances?

Visits Show Demonstrated Interest

Colleges are eager to admit applicants who have done their research and are excited about the possibility to attend a specific school. Every university strives to maintain its yield rate or the number of accepted applicants who choose to enroll.

Do siblings go on college visits?

It's also a great time for younger students like freshmen and sophomores to do some casual college visits while on short fall breaks or even accompany an older sibling on their own visits.

Can you go on college tours alone?

You can still go off on your own.

Once you are at the venue, you go off on your own. This allows you to see things through your own eyes and form your own opinions. You won't get influenced by your parents' thoughts and opinions. At the same time, you know you can regroup after the campus tour.

What should I bring on a college tour?

What questions should I ask at a college tour?

What do I wear at a college tour?

Keep It Casual, but Not Too Casual

While a college tour certainly doesn't call for a tuxedo or a prom dress, ripped jeans, ratty t-shirts, or stained sweats may not make the best first impression on the people you meet. And first impressions often make lasting impressions.

Can you wear sweatpants to a college visit?

Dress Comfortably, but Avoid the Sweats

With all these activities, you are going to be moving around a lot and making many first impressions. It's a good idea to be comfortable during your visit and wear casual clothing that represents you in a positive light.

Do colleges know if you tour?

While visiting college campuses allows students to gain perspective on what kind of college environment they are looking for, it also helps applicants highlight their interest in prospective colleges, showcasing what is known as “demonstrated interest.” Many colleges and universities will keep track of demonstrated ...

What do you wear to an unofficial college visit?

You want to look neat and clean throughout your entire trip. For men, bring a collared shirt with nice jeans or khakis. For women, skirt, dress, nice slacks or jeans are acceptable. Avoid wearing sweatshirts, sweatpants, hats, flip flops and ripped jeans.

What do parents wear to college orientation in summer?

For parents, I'd really try to avoid wearing a suit. I know this can be tempting, but think business casual, or even a cross between casual and business casual. If you wear a suit, you will stand out.

Are college tours expensive?

In general, college tours are not expensive. They typically don't cost you or your child money. Colleges and universities generally offer free tours, free lunch on campus and more. However, it's the other expenses — hotel, airfare, gas and more — that can add up.

Should I dress nice for a college tour?

Most colleges and universities do not require you to dress up if you're just attending an information session or walking around with one of their tour guides. If this is the case for you, be sure to dress comfortably so that you can walk around the campus easily.

What happens if you don't show up for a college tour?

The worst case scenario is that you will be billed for a full semester of tuition, fees, room, and board. You will not be eligible for financial aid. It's a simple matter to contact the college and let them know you won't attend, but there are always students who don't contact the college and don't show up.